Pickleball lessons near me in Gig Harbor, WA

Meet Rusty, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

My name is Rusty, I am a PCI certified PB coach from Tacoma, WA. My introduction to and journey with pickleball is one of a kind and my story alone. If I could sum it up in a few short sentences I would. Due to the uniqueness and length, it will take a bit more. My dad was a Tacoma firefighter and competitive handball player. They had courts at the station, and I started playing with dad and his buddies. Handball is a tough game for a 14-year-old. One day after playing handball, I had to go to baseball practice, my hands were so sore I couldn’t catch the ball, hold a bat or throw the ball without wincing and looking like a baby. I came home and told my dad how terrible practice that day was, he quickly remedied that by sawing off the handle of an old wooden tennis racquet. This worked for about a month, and we decided that a real racquet was in order. My dad knew of a guy up on the Hilltop that was the top racquetball player in the Pacific NW. We went to his little shop, and I met the owner, Sid Williams. (Future Hall of Famer, Original Founder of the USAPA and Original Pioneer of Pickleball), He outfitted me with a new aluminum Leach (I still have it). Little did I know that he would become one of my closest friends a mentor and confidant. Sid became my coach as I started to show promise in local tournaments beating all the ‘old guys’. Fast forward 4 years, one month after my high school graduation, 1978. Sid called and said grab your gear, we are playing this afternoon at the new Family Fitness Center. As I was getting warmed up and my gear ready, he laughed and said “you won’t need all that, we are playing pickleball”. I had never seen nor heard of ‘pickleball’, I thought to myself, what a silly name. But Sid being who he was to me, I rather reluctantly agreed. The courts were all indoor/outdoor carpet, we had a whiffle ball and wooden paddles. I had an absolute blast that day. We played as much as we could that summer, all indoors, all at the Family Fitness Center. There were no such thing as outdoor courts yet. I went to work for the Club and after the summer was over, I left for college to play baseball. After three years of college baseball, I returned home to Tacoma and right back to the club to play racquetball. In my absence pickleball had picked up steam, it was growing, and the courts were usually full. At the same time my sales career was taking off as well. I played both sports whenever I could. Sid was running racquetball tournaments and I was his right-hand man. We would play in the mornings and afterwards we would head out to secure sponsorships donations and door prizes. I didn’t know it at the time, but Sid was giving me a “Master Class” of running tournaments. Somewhere around 1984-85, he took his format and applied it to pickleball. This is where competitive pickleball begins. I was there in the beginning of the new era. Singles was the game at the time and there was one guy I could never beat. Heck no one could beat. Future Hall of Famer Billy Jacobson was that guy. He was the best. Can’t think of a time or tournament that he didn’t dominate. So, I became a doubles specialist. Winning the 1st Annual Washington Open Games for mixed doubles. Billy didn’t play that division. This was the biggest pickleball tourney ever, anywhere. It was sponsored by Nalley and sanctioned by the newly formed USAPA. I loved spending time with Sid on and off the courts. He was truly one of a kind. I loved him dearly and miss him greatly. I played as much as I could, but as a young man at 26 years old I was building a career and was coaching football basketball and baseball at the Boys and Girls Club, there wasn’t a lot of free time. Yet, I was always there with Sid running the tournaments. The Open Games was the last time I played competitively. I took a break to be a college baseball coach, get married and start a family, helping Sid whenever I could. Well now it is September 2022, I am 62 years old. I haven’t played pickleball in 30 years. But this is post pandemic, I was burned out in Corporate America, a suit and tie every day. I wanted to do something that I loved, I wanted to have fun again, I just wanted to be me. The coach and athlete. Sitting around one night with some friends, they asked what I was going to do now. I said, “I am going to make a living playing and coaching pickleball”. As you can imagine we all had a good laugh. I started playing again, I started the process to form a charitable organization named, “The Sid Williams Foundation” and ‘Sids’ Kids’, “bringing pickle to the public” With all that is happening now in pickleball a new company was in order, I named my new company Pickleball OG *coaching*consulting*construction. Today, I play 5-6 days a week, I teach lessons in all shapes and sizes. I consult with paddle companies and with the construction of new facilities both private and public. If I can help in you in any way pickle related, reach out.

Meet Lynn, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

With a lifelong dedication to athletics spanning basketball, volleyball, baseball, and more, I found my true passion in Pickleball seven years ago. For the past three years, I've immersed myself in coaching and training programs within our clubs, channeling my expertise to nurture newcomers to the game. Bolstering my commitment, I completed the IPTPA Level 1 certification, equipping me with the skills to both excel on the court and guide others toward mastery. Embracing the joy of teaching as much as playing, I find immense fulfillment in witnessing the growth of aspiring players as they navigate the intricacies of Pickleball.

Meet Grant, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

I thrive on making the complex simple, transforming pickleball lessons into fun and easily understandable experiences. My passion for the sport is contagious, and students consistently praise my ability to break down techniques and strategies in a clear and engaging way. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, I'll guide you with patience and enthusiasm, ensuring you quickly grasp the fundamentals and develop a love for the game. Let's hit the court together and unlock your pickleball potential!

Meet Tako, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Tako is a passionate pickleball coach who has been playing the sport for two years. He is PPR certified and has been teaching for six months. Despite his short time coaching, Tako is dedicated to creating educational content that helps players grow. He believes in taking a personalized approach, assessing each student individually and catering his instruction to their unique goals, ensuring they reach their full potential on the court.

Meet Josh, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

With a lifelong background in racket sports, I'm presently a tennis instructor and hold a USPTA Pickleball certification. I'm enthusiastic about extending my expertise to Pickleball as well. If you're seeking to dive into an enjoyable and accessible racket sport, I'm here to guide you on that exciting journey!

Meet Jim, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Meet Jim "JK" Marshall, a Pickleball enthusiast with 15 years of experience as a player. Let's learn the game and have fun together!

Meet Leonard, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

In August of 2021, Leonard embarked on a quest to elevate his pickleball skills, actively seeking a place to learn and play. It was during this journey that he crossed paths with Damon, a gentleman who extended an invitation to a community center predominantly frequented by players aged 50 and above. Initially feeling out of place, Leonard was warmly embraced by the community and taught the game that now ignites his passion. Today, almost two years later, Leonard aspires to give back by sharing his knowledge, eager to teach newcomers and enable them to experience the joy of one of the world's fastest-growing sports.

Meet Daniel, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Hello pickleball enthusiasts! I'm an avid advanced player with years of experience and a passion for spreading the joy of this amazing sport. Having traveled across the country to play and compete, I'm determined to help you unlock your potential and become the best player you can be. Let's smash those pickleballs and elevate our game!

Meet Christine, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Christine brings a unique blend of passion and expertise to her pickleball coaching, having transitioned from a college tennis background to a love for pickleball in 2018. Playing at a 4.0 level, she combines her experience in coaching and teaching with her professional background in lifestyle medicine, emphasizing the personal and healing benefits of this sport. Christine plays 3-4 times per week, where she’s built a supportive community and formed lasting friendships. She’s excited to share her enthusiasm for pickleball with players of all ages and skill levels, helping them experience the joy and camaraderie this sport brings.

Meet Will, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

I started playing pickleball 8 years ago and have developed a deep passion and skill for the game. I’m great with people and love helping others achieve their pickleball goals, whether it’s mastering the basics or advancing to competitive play. My coaching approach is focused on creating an enjoyable learning environment while pushing players to reach their full potential on the court!

Meet Kellen, a Pickleball Coach in Gig Harbor, Washington.

Passionate pickleball enthusiast and competitive player. 5-time gold medalist in 6 tournaments with a 4.5 ranking. Led successful pickleball workshops for 9 YMCA centers. Former college football player and pro athlete in Germany. Dreaming of turning pro in pickleball while sharing my love for the game and teaching others.