Pregnant Pickleball Player Loryn Hansbrough Defies Odds at 32 Weeks
Loryn Hansbrough, a 32-week pregnant mom, has defied all odds by taking the court at the Lapiplasty Pickleball Championships at Brookhaven Country Club. Known for her passion for pickleball and her thriving lifestyle influencer and entrepreneur career, Loryn is the second woman, after Brooke Buckner, to compete at this level late in pregnancy.
Competing alongside her husband, Ben, in the Mixed Doubles (5.0) category, Loryn discovered that pregnancy actually improved her game. She found that it helped her slow down, focus on accuracy, and deliver powerful shots on the court.
In an interview with pickleball.com, Loryn shared, “Honestly, I think it’s helped me to slow down because you have to stop to hit the ball. Before when I was super active, I could move really quick, and sometimes I’d run through my shots. Now when I get there, I have to be slower and make sure that I’m hitting a good, solid shot, and give myself time to do that. It’s kind of been funny because people have told me that I’m playing great even though I don’t have the same energy and stamina.”
While Loryn only participated in one event, she spent the rest of her time at the tournament watching professionals, exploring Pickleball Boulevard, and cheering on Ben during his 5.0 match in men’s doubles.
The tournament served as a special babymoon for the Hansbroughs, as they enjoyed quality time together before the arrival of their third child, due around Christmas. Loryn shared, “We’re considering this tournament our babymoon. Our two kids didn’t come with us, and I’m due around Christmas, so this is our last trip kid-free.”
Loryn also revealed that her six-year-old son, Benji, is a huge pickleball fan. “He loves pickleball. When he’s at my sister’s house and she’s babysitting them, right after dinner he asks to go to the court and wants to go practice. That’s his little nighttime routine,” she added.
Despite being heavily pregnant, Loryn Hansbrough continues to inspire others with her determination, passion for the sport, and ability to defy expectations on the pickleball court.
