Senior Pickleball Report
Rich “Thunder” Lopez: The Pickleball Champion | Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report
Discover how Rich Lopez made a lasting impact in the NPL Championship, leaving his mark and making waves in the world of pickleball.
Last Updated on September 12, 2025 by Rod Washington
The Pickleball Champion
In the latest episode of Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report, host Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa sits down with the talented and accomplished Rich Lopez. Known as “Thunder,” Rich is a skilled player and the Head Pickleball Pro.
With an incredible family life, Rich is a devoted husband and father. He recently welcomed a brother and sister, aged 11 and 14, into his family, making it a harmonious blend of “hers, mine, ours, and theirs.” Throughout his life, Rich has been involved in various sports, from soccer and baseball to basketball and racquetball. Now, he has found his passion in pickleball.
Rich’s most recent achievement is winning the gold medal in the prestigious 2021 “Tournament of Champions.” As part of the Oasis family, he is thrilled to contribute to the growth of pickleball in North Texas.
Tune in to this exciting episode of Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report to hear Mike Sleeves Sliwa delve into the journey and success of the remarkable Rich “Thunder” Lopez.
Rich Lopez Links
https://gearboxsports.com/pages/pickleball
https://www.nplpickleball.com/teams
Instagram: @richlopezpickleball
https://m.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100063762842450
https://www.oasispickleballclub.com/rich-thunder-lopez/
Here’s a link to his Indy Driver teammate, Alka Stripolli‘s Interview: https://stmdailynews.com/alka-stripolli-a-remarkable-journey-to-becoming-a-pro-senior-pickleball-player/
