Book Luis Odon - Pickleball coach near Sarasota, Florida

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Get a free trial lesson with Luis

Reputation

Happy Student Score

Great

Reliability

Always reliable ⭐ Shows up on time and ready to teach every lesson. You can count on them.

Average rating

5.0

Yen N.Verified ✓

Level: Intermediate•Lessons taken: 1•Verified ✓

Today was my first time training with Coach Luis, and it was an awesome experience. He taught me the roll, the flick, and how to improve my dinks in a way that was super easy to understand. He broke down each technique step-by-step and made sure I really got the feel of the shots. I already feel more confident and see improvement after just one session. He’s patient, knowledgeable, and knows exactly how to correct mistakes without making you feel pressured. Highly recommend Coach Luis for anyone who wants to level up their pickleball game!

Daniela

Level: Beginner•Lessons taken: 9•

Turned my unathletic self into a pickleball player with incredible patience, breaking down every step for me. His encouragement made all the difference, and I’m so grateful for his tailored help!

Beginner training plan

Your first lessonIn the first lesson, I focus on building a strong foundation while keeping things fun and low-pressure to build confidence. We start with an introduction to pickleball: explaining the court’s dimensions (20x44 feet for doubles), the equipment (paddle, ball, and net at 34 inches in the center), and basic rules like scoring (to 11, win by 2, only serving team scores), underhand serve, and the non-volley zone (the “kitchen”). I assess the beginner’s athletic background and any prior racket sport experience to tailor the session. Hands-on, we cover proper grip (continental or eastern forehand grip for versatility), stance (athletic position with knees bent, feet shoulder-width), and basic strokes: start with simple forehand and backhand groundstrokes from the baseline, emphasizing controlled swings and following through. We practice serving with an underhand motion, aiming diagonally across the court. The session includes light rallying to get a feel for the ball’s bounce and speed, ending with a quick demo game to show how it all comes together. Safety tips, like wearing court shoes and staying hydrated, are emphasized. Goal: Leave excited and with homework like practicing shadow swings at home.

Lesson 11+In lessons 11 and beyond, beginners—now intermediate players—can expect advanced refinement, competitive drills, and personalized growth to prepare for tournaments or social play. We’ll fine-tune techniques like spin (topspin for groundstrokes, slice for drops), advanced serves (with spin or placement), and quick reflexes for fast volleys. Sessions include high-intensity drills: round-robin games, point-play scenarios, and match simulations. Strategy deepens with shot selection, partner communication in doubles, and mental aspects like focus under pressure or error management. Fitness integrates more, with pickleball-specific conditioning for stamina. Expect ongoing evaluation, goal-setting (e.g., improving win percentage), and exposure to variations like skinny singles or team drills. As skills solidify, lessons become more student-led, focusing on weaknesses identified through match analysis. The aim is independence: players who can self-coach, join leagues, and enjoy pickleball lifelong. Ongoing support includes group clinics or online resources for continued improvement.

Pickleball with Luis O.New to TeachMe.To

How it works

Lesson 4-10From lessons 4 to 10, beginners can expect a shift toward skill refinement, strategy, and gameplay, turning fundamentals into fluid play. We’ll deepen shots like lobs (high arcing shots to push opponents back), drop shots (soft third-shot drops into the kitchen), and overhead smashes for put-aways. Drills become more dynamic: multi-shot rallies, kitchen dink battles, and serve-return sequences. Footwork drills intensify, including ladder drills for agility and positioning exercises for doubles (e.g., stacking or switching). Strategy covers court positioning—staying together as a team in doubles, when to poach, and reading opponents. We’ll incorporate fitness elements like cardio warm-ups and core strengthening for endurance. By mid-plan, expect full games with coaching interruptions for tips, plus scenario-based play (e.g., defending lobs). Progress tracking includes self-assessment checklists. These lessons build confidence through small wins, with variety to keep it engaging—perhaps themed sessions like “net domination” or “defensive mastery.”

Lesson 2-3In lessons 2 and 3, beginners can expect to build on the basics with more repetition and introduction to key shots, focusing on consistency and control. We’ll review grips, stances, and strokes from the first lesson, then dive into dinking (soft shots over the net into the kitchen) and volleys (hitting the ball before it bounces, but not in the kitchen). Drills include partner feeds for forehand/backhand practice, simple dink rallies to develop touch, and serving/return drills. We’ll introduce footwork patterns, like split-step for readiness and side-shuffle for court coverage. Basic strategy comes in: positioning at the net for volleys and staying back for groundstrokes. By lesson 3, we’ll play modified games, like half-court singles, to apply skills in a game-like setting. Expect feedback on form, with video analysis if available, and progressive challenges to avoid frustration. Homework might include watching beginner pickleball videos or practicing dinks against a wall.

Advanced training plan

Your first lessonI start by conducting a thorough skills assessment through warm-up rallies and targeted drills to identify strengths (like consistent dinking or powerful drives) and areas for improvement (such as footwork efficiency or shot variety). We discuss their goals, such as tournament preparation or mastering spin, and review key rules nuances like stacking in doubles. Hands-on, we refine grips for advanced shots, practice controlled volleys, and introduce strategy concepts like third-shot drops under pressure. The session ends with a simulated game point to apply insights, plus personalized homework like video self-analysis.

Lesson 11+Now honing elite-level play, can expect customized, high-intensity sessions focused on peak performance and specialization. We’ll fine-tune nuanced techniques like slice serves, body shots, and reflex volleys, with drills simulating tournament conditions (e.g., tiebreakers or adverse weather). Advanced strategy includes game planning against specific styles, partner synergy, and psychological tactics like momentum shifts. Integrated fitness emphasizes injury prevention and recovery. Expect tournament simulations, detailed match analysis (using apps or video), and goal-oriented challenges. Lessons become collaborative, empowering players for self-coaching in leagues or pro events, with ongoing support for lifelong mastery.

Lesson 4-10Players can expect intensive skill integration, strategic depth, and physical conditioning to elevate their game. We’ll master shots like erne volleys, around-the-post hits, and deceptive lobs, with drills incorporating speed and unpredictability (e.g., random feeds or multi-player scenarios). Strategy covers reading opponents, shot selection in high-pressure situations, and doubles formations. Fitness drills include interval training for endurance and core work for power. Sessions feature full matches with live coaching, performance tracking via stats (e.g., unforced errors), and mental training like visualization. Variety keeps it engaging, building toward competitive readiness.

Lesson 2-3Players can expect focused refinement of core shots with emphasis on consistency and adaptability. We’ll build on the assessment by drilling advanced dinks (with spin variations), volleys (including punch and block), and groundstrokes (adding topspin for depth). Footwork patterns like quick pivots and recovery steps are emphasized through ladder drills. Basic advanced strategy enters play, such as poaching and communication in doubles. Expect video feedback, progressive challenges like no-bounce rallies, and early match play to test improvements. Homework includes practicing specific weaknesses identified.

Youth players

Working with kidsWhen working with kids, I adapt lessons to be fun, engaging, and age-appropriate. I use shorter, game-like drills (e.g., target hitting with colorful cones or relay races with paddles) to keep their attention, focusing on basic skills like grip and forehand swings. Sessions are kept to 45-60 minutes, with frequent breaks, and I incorporate storytelling (e.g., “become a pickleball superhero!”) to teach rules and strategy. I use smaller courts or adjusted net heights if needed, and provide lightweight paddles and kid-sized balls for easier handling. Positive reinforcement and group activities foster teamwork and confidence.

Working with teenagersFor teenagers, I tailor lessons to their growing physical abilities and social interests, blending skill development with competitive fun. I introduce more advanced techniques like lobs and spin serves, using longer drills (60-90 minutes) and match simulations to challenge them. I encourage input on lesson goals, incorporate peer coaching, and use tech like video analysis to appeal to their tech-savvy nature. Fitness elements (e.g., agility drills) are added, and I focus on strategy and mental toughness, preparing them for school teams or tournaments while keeping the vibe energetic and relatable.

What you need to bringStudents should come prepared with essentials for a safe and enjoyable session. At minimum, wear comfortable athletic clothing (breathable shirts, shorts or pants that allow movement), non-marking court shoes with good lateral support to prevent slips on the hard surface, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated—pickleball can get intense! Sunglasses or a hat are recommended for outdoor play, along with personal sunscreen. If you already own a pickleball paddle and balls, bring them to get personalized feedback, but it’s not required initially since I’ll provide extras. Optionally, a towel, snacks for energy, and any personal protective gear like knee braces if needed. Focus on comfort to maximize learning!

What I can bringAs the coach, I’ll bring a variety of beginner-friendly equipment to ensure everyone can participate without barriers. This includes multiple pickleball paddles (composite or graphite for better control and lighter weight, sized for adults), a supply of outdoor pickleball balls (durable plastic with 40 holes for wind resistance), and portable nets if the court doesn’t have one set up. I’ll also provide training aids like cones for footwork drills, target markers for shot accuracy, and a ball hopper for efficient drill setup. For safety and comfort, I’ll have extra sunscreen, bandages, and even demo eyewear. This way, beginners can try different paddles to find what feels right before investing in their own.

Cancellation Policy

We totally understand that life can be unpredictable and plans might change. That's why we've got your back with our flexible cancellation policy, designed to give you peace of mind when booking private sports lessons with our awesome local instructors!

If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as possible for you.

And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.

Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of the way!

Get a free trial lesson with Luis

Reputation

Frequently asked questions

Cancellation Policy

Coach Luis Odon

Coach Luis Odon

About your pickleball coach

Luis's availability

Luis's availability

Potter Park

Lorraine Lakes

17th Ave. W. Park

Colonial Oaks Park

GT Bray Park

Fruitville Park

Palmetto Pickleball Courts

Pompano Trail Head Pickleball Courts

Del Webb BayView

Lakewood Ranch High School

Accomplishments

Get a free trial lesson with Luis

Reputation

Frequently asked questions

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Can I take lessons with friends or family groups?

Cancellation Policy

Coach Luis Odon

Coach Luis Odon

About your pickleball coach

Luis's availability

Luis's availability

Potter Park

Lorraine Lakes

17th Ave. W. Park

Colonial Oaks Park

GT Bray Park

Fruitville Park

Palmetto Pickleball Courts

Pompano Trail Head Pickleball Courts

Del Webb BayView

Lakewood Ranch High School

Accomplishments