Private Lessons & Coaches in Richmond, 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!

"great lesson

I've taught tennis at various levels, from beginners with no experience to advanced players, for over two decades. Having played competitively since high school and with the USTA, I reached my highest play level of 4.5. I have also coached girls' and boys' high school tennis teams. I enjoy teaching students of all ages and experience levels, sharing my passion for the game, and helping them improve their skills.

"Coach Wayne is amazing!! He’s kind, funny, and encouraging. He knows what his players need and can explain it in a way to help you understand. It’s been 10+ years since I played tennis in high school, and he made it easy to get back into it. I feel motivated!

I embarked on my tennis journey when I became my wife's hitting partner, gradually immersing myself in the game and honing my skills. As my love for tennis grew, I ventured into competitive play, discovering a true passion for the sport. Inspired by my progress, I began sharing my knowledge with friends, helping them improve their game. This led me to catch the attention of two esteemed teachers: one from the renowned Strawberry Group in Tiburon and another from the YTA Youth Tennis in Oakland. Since then, I have cherished every moment of my involvement in tennis, teaching others and continuously expanding my own expertise, all fueled by an unwavering love for the game.

"Never met a coach like him… he stayed 40 minutes extra with me and he is as patient as he could be…

Hi I'm Derek! I recently graduated from UC Santa Cruz, where I played four years of college soccer as a winger and an outside back. Since graduation, I have continued to stay involved with the sport both as a fan (come on Arsenal) and by playing in the SFSFL and other pick-up games around the city. As a coach, I use my experience with technical drills I have found most effective during my 16+ years as a player, and shape my sessions around whatever skills you'd like to work on, whether that be finishing, defending, technique, etc.

"The lesson was pretty good, especially since I appreciated how close Derek liked to stay nearby during the drill. Though I still need to get more comfortable with the ball, I feel like I made some decent progress, and the lesson highlighted that proximity can really help with focus. Hopefully, next time I can build more confidence with ball control. If you’re looking for a coach who keeps things close and helpful, Derek might be worth a try.

It’s my goal to give you an excellent experience that enhances your game and enriches your life through the awesome sport of tennis. I especially love working with beginners, to shape their strokes, yet get them playing as soon as possible. I can help with points for improvement. Patience and kindness are my trademarks.

"I appreciate how Coach Shannon really takes the time to listen to my goals and patiently help me refine my movement and posture during the lesson.

I have been coaching at Youth League Tennis in both Fremont and Livermore for the past 5 years. My focus is on helping players learn the basics like topspin forehand and double backhand to get them started and enjoy the sport. My goal is to spark their interest in playing more and to encourage them to learn the next skills, such as serving and volleying, leading to eventual match play.

"Darren is patient, provides clear feedback, and emphasizes gradual improvement through repetition and match play situations. Overall, the lessons have helped me become more confident and disciplined on the court.

With half a decade of experience teaching soccer, I'm committed to fostering skill development and sportsmanship. My passion lies in nurturing players' potential in a supportive environment. I blend proven techniques with personalized strategies for optimal growth. I played college club soccer at Clemson University, college soccer at Ohlone College in Fremont, and was also a Division 1 Kicker for San Jose State. I have been coaching for 5 years now as well as many years as a personal trainer and physical therapy instructor. I coach soccer for World Cup soccer camps and AYSO. Growing up I played for Ballistic United. I currently direct the Tri-valley futures program for ballistic United Soccer Club, tailored for kids aged 1-7. I also direct the futsal factory for ballistic United which is for kids 8-18.

"Collin is amazing with my 10 year old. He knows exactly how to push him.

I’m a recently retired orthopedic surgeon who has transitioned into a highly rated Pickleball player and certified instructor with Pickleball Coaching International. With over 20 years of experience coaching youth sports, I bring a unique blend of expertise and passion to the game. My keen eye for teaching allows me to tailor lessons for players of all ages and skill levels, and I’m dedicated to helping you elevate your Pickleball skills to the next level. Let’s get started!

"Excellent coaching with high yield tips!

I'm a seasoned soccer coach with 13 years of experience igniting passion and fostering talent on the field. My training blends technical mastery with tactical awareness to elevate every player's game. Let's unlock your potential together! Committed to Santa Clara university D1. 1 year of private training 1 on 1 coaching experience. Was mentored by Hakan Sukur (former Inter Milan, Galatasaray, Turkish national team player)

"solid training

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.