Wichita’s Pickleball Pioneer Noi Sourinthone: When Noi Sourinthone arrived in Wichita from Nashville two years ago, he had one goal: to grow the sport of pickleball in his new home. Wichita welcomed him with open arms, and the local pickleball community quickly became his support system.
“When I moved here, I just fell in love with the city. The people were amazing; [the] pickleball community here accepted me, and really helped me thrive.” – (Sourinthone)
That support translated into rapid growth for the sport in Wichita, as Sourinthone organized leagues and programs with the help of local volunteers.
“They were willing to go out and get donations and all these things to help me build what we have now. The numbers just expanded and blew up pretty quick.” – (Sourinthone)
Launching ‘Flight’: A Wichita-Based Paddle Brand
Sourinthone’s passion for pickleball has now evolved into a business venture. As part owner of the brand ‘Flight,’ he is bringing his expertise to the creation of pickleball paddles tailored for different playing styles.
“The company brand is called ‘Flight.’ Obviously, Wichita is known for aerospace, and so we wanted to keep everything ‘Wichita,'” – (Sourinthone)
He emphasized the importance of catering to various types of players, whether they prefer power or finesse. “I wanted to have different models so there [are] so many different types of players,” Sourinthone added. He aims to ensure that every player can find a paddle that suits their style.
Fin Tatum, a young pickleball player who assists Sourinthone, praised the paddles.
“I like to hit with a lot of spin and a lot of pace. This paddle, there’s no other paddle that lets me whip through the ball like this paddle.” – (Sourinthone)
A Community Built on Inclusion and Growth
Sourinthone’s influence extends beyond business. He has fostered an inclusive environment in Wichita’s pickleball community, where players of all ages and skill levels can thrive.
“In tennis, after a certain age, there’s … a big drop off. Pickleball is the opposite.” – (Sourinthone)
This inclusive culture has led to strong connections among players, regardless of age.
“These people are just so nice. Some of my best friends are triple my age now.” – (Tatum)
Veteran player Susie Beattie echoed these sentiments, crediting Sourinthone for her development in the sport.
“I find it impossible to find someone as good as [Sourinthone] is. He’s excellent. [Sourinthone] is very patient, particularly with beginners. But what he does … he really forces you to your next level.” – (Beattie)
A Lasting Legacy in Wichita
Sourinthone’s efforts have expanded pickleball sport in Wichita and have also cultivated a community spirit that transcends the game itself.
“There’s definitely a lot more inclusion within the community. Here in Wichita, we have developed a community now where some of your higher levels, borderline pros, are playing with 70-, 75-, 80-year-old males or females and it’s been wonderful that they’re willing to give back their time.” – (Sourinthone)
As the sport continues to grow, Sourinthone’s contributions to Wichita’s pickleball scene are sure to leave a lasting legacy.
News in Brief: Wichita’s Pickleball Pioneer Noi Sourinthone
Noi Sourinthone, Wichita’s first pickleball director, has played a pivotal role in the sport’s rapid growth in the city since his arrival from Nashville. With strong community support, he has launched ‘Flight,’ a Wichita-based brand of pickleball paddles designed for various playing styles.
Sourinthone’s efforts have also fostered an inclusive pickleball community, where players of all ages and skill levels connect. His influence is evident in the expanding popularity of pickleball in Wichita and the strong bonds formed among its players.
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