Book Private Pickleball Lessons with Coach Suzy

Accomplished 4.0+ tennis player for over 40+ years turned pickleball enthusiast over the last three years. Also an Innovative Coach and Community Leader, consistently delivering a calculated approach to positively impacting the lives of individuals and groups in the areas of life and social skills, college preparation, career development, and health. Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstration of building relationships and working collaboratively in both traditional and remote settings, while managing and coordinating projects and goals.

As a Level 1 pickleball instructor, I will strive to improve my students' game with a combination of foundational skill-building, strategy development, and encouraging a positive, supportive learning environment. I'll start with the basics, develop game awareness, focus on consistency, incorporate drills, introduce court awareness and movement, promote mental toughness, adapt to individual needs, promote fitness, use video analysis and create a fun and engaging environment!

Depending on the skill level of the students (beginner, intermediate, or advanced), the lesson will vary in complexity however, I will ensure it’s effective and engaging for all levels.

Warm-Up (5-10 minutes)

1. Light jogging around the court or dynamic stretches.

2. Footwork drills: i.e. shuffle steps, cross-steps.

Skill Focus: Forehand Groundstroke (15-20 minutes)

1. Introduction: Explanation of proper grip, stance, and swing mechanics for a forehand.

2. Demonstration showing a forehand groundstroke.

3. Drill: Students practice hitting forehands with a partner or coach, focusing on form, follow-through, and consistency.

Skill Focus: Serving (15-20 minutes):

1. Explanation: Teach the basic rules and mechanics of serving.

2. Drill: Practice serving underhand (or overhand for more advanced beginners).

3. Focus on accuracy: Students should aim for a specific target zone within the service box.

Mini-Games (10-15 minutes)

1. Play a short game or “rally-to-point” focused on using forehands and serves.

2. Students should focus on consistency and using proper form.

Cool Down & Review (5-10 minutes)

1. Stretching and light conversation.

2. Summary of the lesson, review of key points, and provide feedback.

Q&A and Wrap-up (5 minutes)

1. Students are encouraged to ask questions about the lesson.

2. Students are encouraged to practice at home or during free play.

Joan Ramey was my tennis coach in high school. She was meticulous and taught me all the basics including bouncing a tennis ball on my racquet 100 times. I did this on one side, then the other and then flipping my racquet over and under. This taught me control of my racquet and to not use my wrists. I couldn't move on to any other skill until I mastered the "Joan Ramey" basics. From there every stroke she taught me was to be nearly flawless. I didn't learn all the sexy stuff, she taught me the flat, yet perfect timing forehand and backhand strokes. I had several coaches over the years but no one had the patience of Joan Ramey to teach me the beauty of tennis and why mastering each shot properly matters for a life-long love of the game.

Reputed as one with an infectious, confident enthusiasm, who thrives on interaction, positively engages people, and then motivates and invests in moving them forward into development and growth.

A persuasive communicator, coaching and disseminating information both in-person and through online platforms.

Bringing a wealth of wisdom and life experience from disciplines such as coaching, training, leadership, health and wellness, and business operations and development.

Displaying a forward-thinking approach and a capacity to quickly learn and grow with a positive attitude.

Demonstrating strong leadership while maintaining the highest level of integrity and professionalism.