A lifelong connection sparked on the pickleball court has given a former University of Minnesota football kicker and punter a second chance at life.

According to a story from WCCO-TV, Rob Gray faced a critical health battle after years of living with chronic kidney disease that began in 1999. Despite staying active and becoming a senior pro, Gray’s condition worsened as his kidney began to fail.

Without a transplant, he likely would have needed dialysis by early autumn.

Enter longtime pickleball partner and friend, Matt Skahen. The two had played together at Dropshot Pickleball in Shakopee, MN for several years when Skahen, motivated by his faith and close bond with Gray, decided to donate one of his own kidneys to his buddy.

Skahen underwent testing and evaluation, and discovered he was a perfect match.

"I do just believe it was ordained," said Skahen, describing his belief that their friendship had a deeper purpose. "Jesus knew exactly when he brought us together, that, 'Hey Matt, you're going to have two healthy kidneys your whole life because you're going to give one to Rob evetually.'"

The pair underwent surgery on Nov. 6 at Hennepin Healthcare in Minneapolis. The transplant was successful, and remarkably, they were back on the pickleball courts just six weeks later.

"It definitely changes your energy level," said Gray. "My brain fog went away, my mind is more active."

According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 100,000 people are on the kidney transplant waiting list, but only roughly 17,000 transplants occur each year, and an average of 12 people die daily waiting for a suitable organ.

Gray and Skahen hope their story can serve as an example for others. 

"It's just an overwhelming feeling of brotherhood and love," mentioned Gray. "I couldn't be more thankful."

"You don’t have to be extraordinary to do something extraordinary,” added Skahen.

Their friendship now stands as a powerful testament to compassion and community, illustrating how one act of generosity can change a life.