Whether you’re brand new to the sport or trying to level up from a 3.0 to a 4.0, working with a great pickleball coach can make all the difference in your game.
But what actually makes someone a great coach—not just a good player who gives lessons?
After coaching pickleball since 2018 and working with literally thousands of players, I’ve found that the best coaches all have four traits in common. If you’re looking for a coach—or thinking about becoming one yourself—here’s what to keep in mind.
1. A Great Pickleball Coach Is Empathetic
The best coaches don’t try to force their own playstyle or elite-level strategies on beginner and intermediate players.
Instead, they meet you where you are in your pickleball journey. Whether you’re still learning how to serve/return or just trying to stop popping the ball up, a great coach knows how to build progress in manageable stepping stones.
They won’t throw pro-level advice at you that doesn’t apply. Instead, they’ll help you feel confident, challenged, and supported at every lesson.
If you’re curious about my own journey from nervous beginner to full-time coach, check out My First Year of Coaching Pickleball.
2. A Great Coach Feeds the Right Balls
Ball feeding is one of the most underrated coaching skills in pickleball.
A great coach understands the type of shots players face at different levels. Once they identify what you’re working on—whether it’s resets, punch volleys, or defending drives—they’ll feed balls in a way that helps you practice that skill in realistic situations.
They won’t just stand at the kitchen line and dink for 20 minutes. They’ll create drills and game-like reps that build the muscle memory you need to succeed in actual matches.
Bonus tip: Ask your coach if they can simulate the kinds of opponents you struggle with. It makes lessons way more productive.
(Looking for a new Pickleball Paddle? Try out The Brute Pickleball Paddle by Calvin Keeney – Built for Power & Control)
3. A Great Coach Is Patient (Really Patient)
If you’ve ever had a lesson with a coach who looked annoyed or bored after repeating the same drill three times, you know how frustrating that can be.
Great pickleball coaches love the fundamentals. They can explain the same concept ten different ways without making you feel dumb or behind.
Whether it’s your third time hearing “less wrist on control shots” or you keep forgetting where to stand on the return, a good coach stays calm, clear, and encouraging.
They get that repetition is part of the process. And they’re right there with you, every step of the way.
4. A Great Coach Communicates Clearly
Great coaching starts before you ever step on the court.
Was booking a lesson easy? Did the coach respond to your message promptly and professionally? That first impression is often a reflection of what the lesson will be like.
During the session, the best coaches:
- Keep instructions clear and concise
- Break down complex skills into simple steps
- Check in regularly to make sure you’re following
- Give feedback in a way that builds confidence
Coaches who struggle with communication often leave students confused and overwhelmed, even if they’re great players themselves.
So if you’re looking for a coach, don’t just ask how good they are—ask how clearly they explain things.
Final Thoughts: Coaching Is More Than Just Skill Level
You don’t need a 5.0 coach to improve. You need someone who listens, teaches clearly, and gives you the tools to grow your game over time.
And if you’re a coach yourself, mastering these four traits will set you apart in a crowded field.
Want to Read More?
Here are a few of my other Pickleball articles:
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