Tama Shimabukuro’s Pickleball Journey: Tama Shimabukuro, a 14-year-old from Hawai‘i, will play his first tournament as a Selkirk-sponsored player at the PPA San Clemente event on June 16. Known for his talent and dedication, Tama is quickly rising in the pickleball world after finding early success in 2024.
From Skating to Pickleball
In 2023, Tama Shimabukuro was in California for a skateboarding competition. That’s when he and his family saw people playing a new game—pickleball. They were curious and decided to learn more. Soon after, they bought wooden paddles from Target and started playing.
Fast Success in Tournament Play
In 2024, Tama Shimabukuro began playing in PPA (Professional Pickleball Association) events. He earned a silver medal and two bronze medals in the 5.0 divisions, showing strong results early on. His biggest win so far came at the Honolulu Open, where he won the men’s doubles title by beating two touring professional players in the final.
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Aiming for the Pro Level
Although Tama Shimabukuro lives far from the U.S. mainland, he is becoming well known in the pickleball community. He now competes in pro qualifiers and hopes to enter main draw events soon. His next step will be at San Clemente, where he’ll compete with his blue SLK Era paddle and Selkirk hat.
Training Schedule and Routine
Tama Shimabukuro trains hard every week.
Weekday mornings (3 hours):
Drills
Singles and doubles
Weekday afternoons (3 hours):
More drills
Doubles practice
Weekends (2–3 hours):
Doubles matches
Why This Rising Star Matters
Tama Shimabukuro’s journey from a curious newcomer to a top youth player shows how quickly talent can grow in pickleball. With strong support from Selkirk and his family, Tama is preparing to face the sport’s top players. His success could inspire more young athletes, especially from Hawai‘i, to follow his path.
News in Brief: Tama Shimabukuro’s Pickleball Journey
Tama Shimabukuro, 14, from Hawai‘i, will make his Selkirk debut at the PPA San Clemente on June 16. After switching from skateboarding to pickleball in 2023, he has quickly risen through the ranks. With medals in 5.0 divisions and a big win in Honolulu, he now targets the pro level.