Book Private Pickleball Lessons with Coach Waleed

I am a dedicated sports professional with extensive experience in tennis, pickleball, and croquet. Over the years, I have built a reputation for successfully managing sports programs, coaching players of all levels, and fostering vibrant and engaged sports communities. My expertise lies in event planning, personalized coaching, and implementing strategies that enhance player performance and enjoyment.

Currently serving as the Croquet Manager at The Plantation at Ponte Vedra Beach, I manage facilities, coordinate tournaments and social events, and create programs that elevate member experiences. I have also held roles as a Tennis Professional and High School Coach, developing players through tailored training, league coordination, and strategic game preparation. My achievements include growing participation, organizing numerous events, and earning recognition for my leadership in sports management.

As a certified PTR and PPR coach with additional training in golf croquet, I blend technical expertise with a passion for teaching and community building. My career reflects a strong commitment to fostering individual growth, promoting health and fitness, and delivering excellence in sports programming.

I can help someone improve their pickleball game by providing tailored guidance in the following areas:

Skill Development: Focus on refining strokes, improving consistency, and mastering core techniques like dinking, volleys, serves, and returns.

Footwork and Positioning: Teach effective movement and court positioning to maintain balance and control during play.

Strategy and Game IQ: Help players understand the nuances of the game, including shot selection, placement, and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses.

Drills and Practice Routines: Design targeted drills to build muscle memory, accuracy, and quick reflexes.

Fitness and Conditioning: Incorporate exercises to enhance agility, stamina, and strength specific to pickleball needs.

Mental Toughness: Train players to stay focused, manage pressure, and adapt strategies mid-game.

Personalized Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement and celebrate progress.

Doubles Tactics: Teach coordination, communication, and positioning strategies for effective doubles play.

By blending technical coaching, strategic insights, and encouragement, I ensure players of all levels unlock their potential and enjoy their pickleball journey.

A typical pickleball training session is structured to maximize skill development, strategic understanding, and overall enjoyment. Here's what it might look like:

1. Warm-Up (10-15 minutes)

Dynamic Stretching: Focus on loosening muscles and improving range of motion.

Footwork Drills: Light exercises to improve agility and movement.

Mini Games: Short rallies to get comfortable with the paddle and ball.

2. Skill Development (20-30 minutes)

Stroke Mechanics: Work on serves, returns, volleys, and dinks with personalized feedback.

Repetition Drills: Practice specific shots like cross-court dinks, third-shot drops, or overhead smashes to build consistency.

Target Drills: Focus on accuracy by hitting designated areas on the court.

3. Strategy and Gameplay (15-20 minutes)

Court Positioning: Learn where to stand and move during different phases of the game.

Tactical Drills: Practice scenarios like transitioning from the baseline to the kitchen line or defending against aggressive players.

Shot Selection: Discuss and practice when to use offensive vs. defensive shots.

4. Practice Matches (15-20 minutes)

Simulate real-game conditions in singles or doubles.

Provide live feedback to reinforce strategic concepts and improve decision-making.

5. Cool-Down and Review (5-10 minutes)

Static Stretching: Focus on flexibility and recovery to prevent injuries.

Session Recap: Highlight key takeaways, areas of improvement, and next steps.

Customizations

The session can be tailored based on the player’s goals, skill level, and preferred areas of focus, ensuring a personalized and effective training experience.

This structure ensures players leave each session with improved skills, better understanding, and increased confidence in their game.

Nick Bollettieri was one of the most inspiring coaches I’ve ever met. Learning from him not only transformed how I coach tennis but also how I approach mentoring athletes in life and sport. His passion, innovative methods, and emphasis on discipline continue to shape my philosophy as a coach every day.

Passion for Coaching: I am deeply committed to helping athletes improve their skills, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for their sport.

Experience and Expertise: With years of experience in tennis, pickleball, and croquet, I bring a wealth of knowledge in coaching, event management, and program development for players of all levels.

Tailored Training: I believe in personalized coaching, adapting my methods to each athlete’s strengths, goals, and needs to ensure effective learning and progress.

Emphasis on Sportsmanship: Beyond technical skills, I instill values of respect, teamwork, and discipline, ensuring athletes grow both on and off the court.

Commitment to Community: I focus on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for athletes and families, fostering camaraderie and a sense of belonging.

Certified Professional: As a certified PTR and PPR coach with training in various age groups and performance levels, I am equipped to guide athletes through every stage of their development.

Proven Track Record: My coaching has helped players achieve personal milestones, while my leadership has elevated sports programs at esteemed organizations.

Approachability and Communication: I prioritize open communication with parents and athletes, providing regular feedback and fostering a collaborative approach to achieve success.

My goal is to empower athletes to reach their potential, enjoy their journey, and carry the skills they learn into every aspect of life.