How to Find Your Pickleball Soulmate (Coach Edition)
Sureena Shree ChandrasekarSo, you’ve fallen for pickleball, hard. Maybe you’ve been playing for a while and want to level up, or maybe you’re just tired of your cousin beating you every Sunday.
Either way, the next logical step is finding yourself a coach. But not just any coach.
You want someone who gets your vibe, understands your goals, and doesn’t make you feel like you’re auditioning for the Olympics (unless that is your goal, then power to you!).
Let’s break down how to find the perfect pickleball coach for you, because your journey should feel less like a chore and more like an exciting next chapter in your pickleball story.
1. Know Your “Why” Before You Search
Before you even start Googling or asking around, take a moment to ask yourself: Why do I want a coach?
Are you:
- A total beginner who wants to learn the rules without Googling every 5 minutes?
- Someone who wants to compete in tournaments?
-
Just trying to improve your kitchen game so you can finally beat Steve from work?
Knowing your why helps you filter out coaches who aren’t aligned with your vibe.
A high-performance coach who trains national champs might not be the best fit if you’re just trying to stop hitting the ball into the net every third shot.
2. Check Their Credentials… and Vibe
Yes, experience matters. A coach with certifications from organizations like IPTPA (International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association) or PPR (Professional Pickleball Registry) usually has solid teaching techniques and structured lesson plans. But don’t stop at credentials, vibe check, please!
Do they:
- Teach in a way that makes you feel confident and excited?
- Encourage and explain instead of criticising and confusing?
- Match your energy level (whether you're chill or hyper-competitive)?
3. Ask Around - Pickleball Style
Pickleball players are a friendly bunch. Hit up your local courts and ask who’s coaching in the area. Word of mouth is gold in the pickleball community. Most players are more than happy to share who helped them improve their backhand or master the art of the dink.
Better yet, watch a few lessons in action (no, you’re not being creepy, you’re being observant). Seeing how a coach interacts with their students can help you decide if their style feels right for you.
4. Consider Group Lessons vs. Private Coaching
Private lessons are great if you want focused attention or have specific goals. But don’t sleep on group sessions, they’re more affordable, often more fun, and come with a bonus: you’ll meet other players at your skill level (hello, new doubles partners!).
Still unsure? Try both. You might discover you prefer one-on-one breakdowns of your technique, or maybe you thrive in a more social learning environment where you can laugh through your mistakes.
5. Pick a Coach Who “Gets” Your Learning Style
We all learn differently. Some of us need detailed explanations. Others need visual cues. Some prefer the “let me try and mess up a few times” approach. A good coach will:
- Adapt to your learning style.
- Be patient (especially during those “oops, I did it again” moments).
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Celebrate progress, not perfection.
During your first few sessions, notice how they give feedback. Do they offer clear, constructive advice? Do they explain why a technique works? Are they open to questions?
If they say things like “Just do it this way because I said so” yeah, that’s a red flag.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Break Up (Politely)
Listen, not every coaching relationship is meant to be. If something feels off, maybe you’re not improving, or you just don’t connect, it's totally okay to move on. Coaching should feel productive, supportive, and even fun. You deserve someone who brings out your best, not someone who leaves you dreading every lesson.
Just thank them for their time, be honest about your goals shifting, and move on with grace (and maybe a new paddle).
Bonus Tip: Stalk Their Socials (Just a Little)
Many pickleball coaches post on social media; drills, tips, testimonials, maybe even videos of them playing or teaching.
It’s a great way to get a sneak peek into their teaching style and see if they’re a good match. Are they friendly? Approachable? Do they teach skills you’re interested in learning?
Just don’t go too far and start liking posts from 2016. We want a coach, not a restraining order.
Final Serve: You Deserve a Coach Who Fits You
Finding the right pickleball coach isn’t about picking the most decorated player or the loudest instructor on the court. It’s about choosing someone who understands your goals, your pace, and your personality.
Whether you’re aiming for gold or just looking to keep the ball in play longer than three hits, the right coach will make your journey enjoyable, encouraging, and full of lightbulb moments. You can now book a coach on Pickle361’s Coach Directory based on your needs and goals! With complete write ups to help you choose the right coach for you and seamless booking processes, you’ll be blazing the court in no time.
So, lace up those court shoes, grab your paddle, and go find your pickleball person. They’re out there, ready to help you become the player you were always meant to be (minus the net smashes... we’ll work on that).
