For Kim Layton, pickleball started with a simple invitation from her dad: give it a try.
What followed was something neither of them could have predicted.
For the next few years, Kim and her dad played mixed doubles together, building memories on the court while she quietly began to realize there might be more to the game for her.
“I began to see the potential to get really good at this sport and decided I wanted to explore that potential.”
That curiosity turned into commitment. Along the way, Kim found great friends and drilling partners who were equally motivated to put in the work, challenge one another and see just how far they could take their games.
Then came a moment that shifted her perspective.
The Moment Everything Changed
At her first 4.5 tournament, Kim won gold in mixed doubles.
It was the kind of result that makes you reconsider what might be possible.
“I remember thinking, hmmm, maybe I could get really good at this sport.”
From there, the pursuit became about more than winning. It became about learning, improving and continually finding another level—something Kim now gets to pass along to others as a pickleball coach.
“Coaching has been really neat because I get to share with students things I wish someone had told me along the way.”
A Game That Connects Generations
Ask Kim what she loves most about pickleball, though, and her answer isn't about competition.
It's the people.
“The way it connects people of various ages and backgrounds is incredible. I have friends who are in their teens and friends in their 60s and everywhere in between. I love that so much about this sport.”
For Kim, those relationships have become just as meaningful as anything that happens on the scoreboard.
It's a community built around a shared love of the game, but one that reaches far beyond the court.
Stronger, On and Off the Court
Life beyond pickleball is every bit as full.
Along with coaching, Kim teaches bootcamp classes—and her approach to fitness is as much about connection as it is about getting stronger.
“They feel a little like a girls' night out. There's lots of chatting and laughing while I also try to show the ladies how strong they can be.”
She's been challenging herself, too. Lately, Kim has been pushing harder in the gym with a new goal: building muscle and getting stronger.
But above everything else comes family.
Family Beyond the Game
Her husband and four kids are her biggest priority, and some of her favourite moments are also the simplest: painting nails with her girls, playing card games, watching her children explore and develop their talents, and finding those little opportunities to teach them about life.
Sport inevitably finds its way into family time, too.
Their latest interest? Playing rugby together at the field down the street.
“Turns out I'm the weak link in that sport,” Kim jokes.
It's a glimpse of Kim that you won't necessarily see across the pickleball net: competitor, coach, fitness instructor, wife, mom—and someone who doesn't take herself too seriously.
Growing With Team NONVØLI
When Kim discovered NONVØLI, it wasn't only the clothing that caught her attention.
“The people behind this brand are really special. I love how crisp and modern the clothing and logo are. And the chance to grow with a Canadian brand is special.”
That feeling is mutual.
Team NONVØLI was never meant to be defined solely by rankings, medals or tournament results. We want to celebrate the people behind the player—their lives, their communities and what drives them beyond the game.
Kim embodies that beautifully.
Her story started on a pickleball court with her dad. Today, she's competing, coaching, building strength, raising a family and helping others discover what they're capable of.
And she's still exploring just how far she can go.
Welcome to Team NONVØLI, Kim.
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