From floor routines to firefighting and now pickleball: The unstoppable Roxanne Pierce

The Kitchen Team

Your pickleball fanatics

Last Edited

Jun 26 2025

Olympic dream realized

Roxanne says it was both an honor and thrill to represent the United States at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. While the spotlight was certainly on the competition, one of her most cherished memories took place off the mat, sharing playful moments with athletes from around the world within the Olympic village. “There were no language barriers,” she says. “We just connected through games and laughter.”

A new kind of calling

Roxanne wanted a purpose after gymnastics, not just another physically demanding role. “It wasn’t the firefighting that initially interested me,” she reflects. “I wanted to become a paramedic.” That decision led to a meaningful career with the Albuquerque Fire Department, where she continued to push her limits in service of others. Though firefighting didn’t mirror the intensity of competition for her, Roxanne carried the mental discipline from both gymnastics and emergency response into every chapter of her life. “Those experiences taught me how to stay composed under pressure and project calm, confidence, and control – even in high-stress situations.”

Discovering a new obsession

Roxanne’s relationship with pickleball started with a local newspaper article. Curious, she decided to give it a try. “It sounded like a ton of fun,” she says. “It was. I became addicted.” That first swing of the paddle sparked something familiar, a competitive fire she hadn’t felt in years. Now a proud member of Team ONIX, Roxanne brings that same passion and focus to the court, combing her athletic background with her lifelong commitment to staying active.

Reinvention at every age

To athletes or anyone considering a major shift later in life, Roxanne offers this advice, “Don’t be afraid to try something new, stay active, stay in shape, and take care of your body – it’s the foundation for everything. Most of all, have fun.” Her story is proof that greatness does not stop at one chapter. Whether she’s flipping on a balance beam, responding to a crisis, or returning a drop shot, Roxanne Pierce embodies strength, grace, and an unstoppable spirit that we are thrilled to have on Team ONIX.

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