“Teach the player, not just the stroke.”
Every student learns differently, so I don’t believe in putting everyone into the same mould. I want my students to understand why they are doing something, rather than simply copying me. Once they understand the “why”, they become more adaptable, confident and independent players.
I don’t just teach people how to hit a pickleball - I teach them how to understand the game. My coaching focuses on solid fundamentals, smarter shot selection, court awareness and the confidence to make decisions under pressure. My goal is to develop players who can think and play independently, not just follow instructions.
You don’t need to be good at pickleball to enjoy it - but you do need to be willing to look a little silly while learning!
Beginners often want to hit harder, move faster and win immediately. I would rather they learn to slow the game down, watch the ball and learn from mistakes. Your first hundred ugly shots are probably more valuable than your first hundred winners.
One of my most memorable students was a 62-year-old lady who joined my group class as a complete beginner. During her very first lesson, she took a fall and was considering giving up the sport altogether.
I checked in on her and encouraged her to start with 1:1 lessons, where we could focus on the fundamentals, build her confidence and progress at her own pace.
She took my advice and progressed remarkably well. Two years later, she is still under my coaching care and has become a very good player.
Watching her go from feeling discouraged after her fall to confidently holding her own on court has been incredibly rewarding. Sometimes, the most important thing a coach can give a beginner is not a better shot - it is the confidence to keep going.
One of my most memorable students came from a badminton background and was initially very unreceptive to coaching. She would often challenge me with, “Why do I have to stand like that? It looks stupid!” or insist that her way of returning a ball was better. She was definitely stubborn!
Instead of simply correcting her, I took time to explain the “why” behind each technique. Gradually, she became more receptive and started trusting the process. About a year later, she has progressed tremendously and is now playing very well.
It taught me that good coaching is noit about forcing change – it is about earning enough trust for the player to embrace it.
