Dr Michelle Chin, a dentist from Chermside Dental Care, never imagined that a casual decision to try a new sport would lead her to represent Australia on a national stage. But that’s exactly what happened when she picked up a paddle and fell in love with pickleball.
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Originally from Canada, Dr Chin was first introduced to the sport in 2017 after watching a game at a Toronto community centre. Captivated by its fast pace and accessible format, she joined a local club and was immediately hooked. When she moved to Brisbane in 2019, knowing no one in the city, pickleball once again became a lifeline—this time helping her build connections in a new country.
She reached out to Brisbane Pickleball and quickly became part of the community, training regularly and eventually competing at a professional level. At her peak, she was playing competitive matches twice a week and following a strict training regimen to build strength and agility.
Her dedication paid off. Within a few years, Dr Chin found herself on the courts of the National Pickleball League, representing Australia in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. She experienced firsthand how the game had evolved—from a recreational pastime into a fast-paced, skill-intensive sport requiring sharp reflexes and coordination.
However, the journey wasn’t without challenges. A repetitive strain injury in her wrist eventually forced her to slow down. These days, she plays more casually, enjoying matches with friends and family whenever she gets the chance.
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What’s endured, though, is her love for the sport and the strong community around it. For Dr Chin, pickleball has always been more than a game—it’s been a way to connect, belong, and thrive. And as the sport continues to grow across Australia, stories like hers show how powerful that connection can be.
Published 3-July-2025
