KaSandra Gehrke

KaSandra Gehrke began her exciting journey into the world of pickleball during the warm summer of 2016. At the time, she was working as a physical education teacher and was actively seeking a new, engaging sport to introduce to her students—something fun, accessible, and challenging. Her search led her to the game of pickleball, a fast-paced, dynamic sport that immediately caught her attention. It wasn’t long before KaSandra realized she had found something special—not just for her students, but for herself as well.

What started as a creative teaching tool quickly evolved into a personal passion. The sport’s blend of strategy, athleticism, and community was the perfect match for KaSandra’s energy and enthusiasm. She not only introduced her students to the basics of pickleball but also began dedicating more and more time to developing her own skills. Within a short time, her casual interest grew into a competitive drive, and pickleball became a major focus in her life.

Today, KaSandra is a full-time pickleball athlete, coach, and ambassador for the sport. She has embraced a lifestyle that allows her to travel extensively across the country—and even internationally—to share her love for pickleball with players of all ages and skill levels. Whether she is leading clinics, offering one-on-one coaching, or competing in high-level tournaments, KaSandra brings passion, energy, and a deep understanding of the game to everything she does.

Originally from Springfield, Missouri, KaSandra maintains strong ties to her hometown community, but her reach extends far beyond the local courts. Her teaching background and natural communication skills make her an effective and inspiring coach, and her competitive accomplishments reflect her talent and dedication. Among her standout achievements are winning the Women’s National Championship in 2021, as well as earning titles in both the Women’s and Mixed Doubles divisions at the 2021 Indoor Nationals. These victories underscore not only her technical skill but also her ability to work effectively as a teammate in doubles play.

A key element of KaSandra’s success on the court is her equipment—specifically, the ONIX Evoke Premier pickleball paddle. She relies on the paddle’s unique combination of touch, control, and power to help execute a wide range of shots. Whether she’s placing a precise dink or driving the ball down the line, the paddle offers her the responsiveness and reliability she needs in the heat of competition. For KaSandra, the Evoke Premier isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s an essential part of her playing identity.

Beyond her personal success, KaSandra continues to contribute to the sport by growing the pickleball community and helping others improve their game. She believes in the power of pickleball to connect people, promote fitness, and offer a lifelong opportunity for fun and personal growth.

KaSandra Gehrke’s story is a testament to how one summer can change the course of a life. From a curious teacher to a national champion and full-time athlete, her journey continues to inspire new players wherever she goes.