Best 3 coaches for Pickleball lessons near Vernon, CT

I’m certified with honors as a pickleball instructor and a certified skill rater (PCI). I promote enjoyment, mastery, and victory, but safety first. I currently play at a 5.0+ skill level (PCI and USAP; not DUPR rated). I’m available as a coach, trainer, and hitting partner. My first task with you is to rate your skill level, so a PCI rating is included, if you want: My lessons are tailored to your goals (competition or recreation) and your stage of progress. For minor athletes, I follow MAAPP standards from U.S. Center for SafeSport.

"I recently had the pleasure of taking a pickleball lesson with Mike, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. Mike’s teaching style is engaging and approachable, making it easy for players of all skill levels to feel comfortable and motivated. He took the time to assess my current abilities and tailored the lesson to focus on areas where I needed improvement, such as footwork and shot accuracy. His clear explanations and demonstrations helped me grasp complex techniques quickly, and he provided valuable feedback in a way that was constructive without feeling overwhelming. Mike's ability to break down the game’s nuances made me feel more confident on the court. What really stood out during the lesson was Mike’s enthusiasm and passion for the game. His energy was infectious, and it made the session not only educational but also enjoyable. He encouraged me to push my limits while maintaining a supportive atmosphere, ensuring I was always focused on having fun while improving. By the end of the lesson, I felt more confident in my skills and excited to apply what I had learned. Mike’s expertise and genuine love for pickleball truly shine through in his teaching, and I can’t wait to take another lesson with him in the future.

With close to 40 years of training / coaching athletes from a multitude of recreational and professional sport disciplines , the exciting culture of pickleball is now my focus. Incorporating 25 years of professional, collegiate and recreational tennis training, the crossover into helping Pickleball players of all levels unlock their potential is my passion. Whether you're a beginner just discovering the sport or a seasoned competitor looking to amp your game, I'm here to guide you with a blend of fun, biomechanics, technique, and encouragement not to mention the requisite footwork, power and fitness aspects to the sport.

"Very good teacher. Learned a lot!

I’ve spent 16 years coaching across multiple sports while working full-time and raising my son. I’ve learned that coaching isn’t about teaching skills—it’s about building people. I focus on confidence, empowerment, and trust first, teaching the “numbers before calculus” to make learning simple and pressure-free. At The Pickleball Place, we’ve built a 98% retention rate by helping people feel seen, supported, and believe in themselves again.

"I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Taylor Heal. an exceptional pickleball coach who has had a truly meaningful impact on both players and the broader community. When I first began working with Taylor, I was a complete beginner—what I would jokingly call a “struggling pickleball player.” Thanks to his patience, encouragement, and skillful instruction, I have progressed to an intermediate level. More importantly, he made the entire experience enjoyable, motivating, and something I genuinely look forward to. Taylor has a remarkable ability to connect with players of all skill levels. He creates an environment that is both welcoming and inspiring, ensuring that everyone—from beginners to more advanced players—feels supported and challenged. His enthusiasm for the game is contagious, and he has truly elevated the quality and spirit of the program. What sets Taylor apart even more is his dedication to inclusivity. He started a Special Olympics group that has been incredibly impactful. As a parent of a son with autism and an intellectual disability, I have seen firsthand the joy and growth this program has brought. The smiles, confidence, and improvement in the participants’ abilities are nothing short of amazing. Taylor’s compassion and commitment in this area speak volumes about his character. In every sense, Taylor is a phenomenal coach, mentor, and leader. I wholeheartedly recommend him without reservation. Any program or organization would be fortunate to have him. Sincerely, Annette Scully (Still a “struggling” but very grateful pickleball player 😊)