KaSandra Gehrke's Empowering Movement for Women

In a world of pickleball, few names are as synonymous with empowerment and authenticity as KaSandra Gehrke. A longtime ONIX athlete and visionary behind Empowher Pickleball, KaSandra isn’t just a player or a coach – she’s a leader of a growing movement that’s changing the game for women across the country.

Empowher began as an idea rooted in observation and heart. “I’ve been teaching in the pickleball space for several years,” she says, “and throughout that time, I recognized a real need for a more inclusive environment specifically for women. I wanted to create a space where women could feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow-both on and off the court.”

That intention has grown into something far more powerful than she could have ever imagined.

A Community That Inspires & Transforms

Empowher isn’t just a retreat series. It’s a transformational community. Women come from all over the country, many traveling solo, and leave with more than improved pickleball skills. They leave with deep friendships, lasting memories, and, in many cases, a new sense of purpose.

“We’ve had women join these trips by themselves and leave with lifelong friends. Many of them return together for future events after meeting through Empowher. It’s been amazing to witness,” KaSandra shares.

But what’s most inspiring is the ripple effect it creates. “The love, connection, and support within this community is beyond anything I could have imagined, and it continues to inspire me every day.”

Why Pickleball? Why Now?

Pickleball has long been known for its accessibility, but to KaSandra, it’s more than a gateway sport-it’s a lifeline for many women stepping into their power later in life.

“One of the most powerful aspects of pickleball is how many women come into the sport as first-time athletes, many in their 60s and beyond,” she explains. “I’ve had countless women tell me that this is they very first sport they’ve ever played in their lives, and they’re proud of that. And they should be.”

For some, it’s a healing journey after loss. For others, it’s the beginning of a health and wellness chapter. And for many, it’s about connection, forming meaningful relationships in a time of life when that can be surprisingly hard.

“Pickleball offers more than just physical activity-it offers joy, confidence, and a fresh start,” KaSandra says. “It’s a second chance at a new exciting life.”

Empowerment That Works Both Ways

While KaSandra’s goal was to empower others, the journey gave something priceless back to her, too. “When I started Empowher, I hadn’t fully fleshed out the vision – I just knew I wanted to create something meaningful,” she states. “What I didn’t expect was how much it would transform me.”

Before building Empowher, KaSandra says she often felt pressured to be less than who she really was. “I spent years shrinking myself to fit expectations, being told I was ‘too much,’ ‘too loud,’ or ‘too inappropriate.’ I internalized this idea that women shouldn’t show up fully as themselves.”

But through the encouragement of the women in her community, everything changed. “These women gave me the space, and the courage, to be myself. I’ve learned that not everyone has to accept me, because I now fully accept me.”

A Brand That Believed from Day One: ONIX Pickleball

For KaSandra, the story of Empowher wouldn’t be complete without recognizing ONIX Pickleball’s role in it.

“ONIX has been with me from the very beginning. They’ve always believed in me-not just as an athlete, but as a coach, a leader, and a visionary,” she says. “They supported my dreams before they had a name.”

Thanks in part to that support, KaSandra’s women-led empire has grown to over 58,000 women and counting. “ONIX never asked me to win all the medals or be someone I wasn’t. They let me show up exactly as I am.”

Advice for Women on the Fence

What would she say to women hesitant to try pickleball? “Do it for YOU. After a lifetime of showing up for others, it’s time to pour into yourself,” KaSandra says. “Taking the leap isn’t just about picking up a paddle-it’s about rediscovering your strength and joy.” She adds, “You’ll build real, lasting friendships here. This isn’t just a hobby-it can truly change your life.”

Looking Ahead: A Movement That’s Only Just Begun

KaSandra’s not slowing down anytime soon. In 2026, Empowher is planning to host 10 retreats and over 50 camps nationwide. With every event, the mission remains the same: to help women feel strong, confident, and connected.

“I want every woman who joins us to know it’s not just okay to be unapologetically herself, it’s powerful. Any goal within reach, no matter your age.”

With ONIX Pickleball by her side, and a community of fierce women behind her, KaSandra Gehrke is proving that one paddle and one powerful voice can change lives.