Private Pickleball Lessons & Coaches in Martinez, CA

Like you, I just love pickleball, and I love teaching and coaching others to improve dramatically by making simple, small adjustments. I have a Level II certification from the IPTPA and years of coaching experience here and in France, where I was the 2023 National Champion (50+). Let's play!

"I recently had a private pickleball lesson with Nic, Bekaert, and it was genuinely one of the best coaching experiences I've ever had. Nic focused our session on the kitchen game, specifically net volleys and dinking, and the improvement I felt was immediate. What sets him apart isn't just his elite-level knowledge; it's how he communicates it. He's a careful listener who takes the time to understand where you are as a player, and his explanations are clear, precise, and immediately actionable. The real test of any lesson is whether the coaching sticks when you're playing in real time, under pressure. So often, tips absorbed in a lesson evaporate the moment you step onto the court. Not with Nic. His strategies and cues are memorable and practical which is exactly the kind of instruction that translates into your game when it counts. Without question, Nic is the most effective coach I have ever worked with. If you have the opportunity to take a lesson with him, don't hesitate. -Chris B.

Hi I'm Joshua Tam! I coach focusing on decision-making, consistency and repeatable shots. I am a believer in that techniques like dinking, resetting, blocking are key to a strong pickleball foundation. These are my greatest strengths that have allowed me to do very well in high level money tournaments. Whether you're brand new to pickleball or trying to break through a current level plateau (3.0-3.5-4.0+), lessons are tailored to your specific needs! My personal tournament results include 2nd place in 4.0. 4th in 4.5, and 2nd place in 5.0 DUPR events.

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Hi! During my high school and college years, I played varsity tennis and even earned an invitation to the Junior Davis Cup tryouts. I then channeled my passion for the sport into coaching, leading to a head Varsity tennis coach in high school. These days, I've immersed myself in coaching pickleball, drawing from my rich tennis background to nurture and elevate players in this exciting game. Unlike many other coaches I earned a California State Bachelors degree which included a fifth year California State Teaching Credential. This training has given me the special skills to teach and coach my students at all levels of the game. It’s my passion. I recently won the Gold Medal 🏅in the Mixed Doubles at the Tri-Valley Pickle Ball Championships.

"Nick is a great teacher and is very thorough in explaining the game as well as technique. He’s very patient and gives good solid advice that has shown in my results. I am really enjoying learning from Nick and all his experience.

Stuck at Beginer - 3.5 level? I can upgrade you. Newbie? You can beat your equivalent after learning from me. My sessions are tailored and varies depends on who you are: -New to Pickleball: I will help you quickly emerge into the game and enjoy it, regardless your sport background or experience. Step 1: Game rules: I will explain it in the easiest and most memorable way. But lets be honest, your time is valuable and the rules can be easy self-learning process with the internet. Step 2: Basic pickle ball - Pickleball 100 focus on: Proper paddle grip Touch feeling Short distance swing Long distance swing Proper Footwork for effortless movement Step 3: Learn the basic shots ( serve, return, drive, drop, dink..) Understand purpose and technicality of the shots Practice till you make it Step 4: Roll into the game and learn from your mistake. ***Newbies usually need a certain amount of time to master most basic shots. I highly suggest you go with me for at least 5 sessons to learn in a systematic way and build a strong foundation for your further progress. *** I ll be frank and genuine to you, slow and stead is the only way to build your game. Rushing will only slow you down *** -Intermediate: struggling with core shots (drive, serve, return, drop, dink..): Step 1. Assessment: let me see how you hit it, I will tell you what can be improved. Step 2. Understand the shot: why, when, where, and how. Understanding what you do is most crucial for improvement. Step 3. Practice: I’ll break the shot down into small moves. We focus on mastering one move at a time. Then combine them into a complete shot. Step 4. Reinforcement: its trial and errors process. We keep drilling and fixing mistakes untill you got it. Step 5. Bring it to the game (depends on situation): only if you are ready, we can play real games so you learn from your own mistake. Otherwise, rushing to the games only slowering your improvement. My lessons are always customized to your needs. Whether you want to focus on mechanics, strategy, or simply getting more comfortable rallying, I’ll assess and tailor each session so you see immediate progress. My teaching philosophy is simple: Quality over Quantity. I emphasize deep understanding and focused practice, so that after every lesson, you walk away with solid foundation and confidence to keep building your game on your own.

"Logan is super professional and definitely a great instructor!

I’m Daniel, a PCI certified instructor! My coaching emphasizes strong fundamentals and a clear understanding of the moving parts in today’s evolving game, helping players improve skills and adapt with confidence. My background in sports is ping pong, tennis and golf help me bring a cross-sport perspective to every lesson. This approach helps me explain through different views to build consistency, strategy, and enjoyment on the court. I really enjoy helping students improve! Thanks!

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