Gilbert, Arizona, has quickly become a thriving hub for pickleball, attracting a growing community of passionate players. The town's vibrant energy and love for outdoor activities make it the perfect place to pick up a paddle. Whether you're just starting out or preparing for your next tournament, having a great coach is the key to accelerating your progress and enjoying the game even more.
Finding the right instructor can transform your skills, build your confidence, and connect you with the local pickleball scene. To help you on your journey, we’ve curated a list of the top 5 pickleball coaches in the Gilbert area. These instructors were chosen for their impressive credentials, effective coaching styles, and the positive impact they've had on their students.
Why Gilbert, AZ Is a Hotspot for Pickleball Coaching
Over the past few years, Gilbert has emerged as a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts. Several factors contribute to its reputation as a great place to learn and play, making it home to some of the best pickleball instructors in Arizona.
Year-Round Weather and Facilities
Arizona's sunny climate allows for pickleball to be played almost every day of the year. Gilbert has invested heavily in its recreational infrastructure, offering numerous high-quality public courts, including the 16 dedicated courts at Gilbert Regional Park. Many private communities and clubs, like Pickleball Backyard, also provide excellent facilities, ensuring players have plenty of options for lessons and matches.
A Booming Local Community
The pickleball community in Gilbert is active, welcoming, and constantly growing. Local Facebook groups and the Global Pickleball Network connect players for casual games, leagues, and social events. This energetic environment fosters a love for the sport and creates a high demand for skilled coaches who can help new and experienced players alike. The town's community spirit, once centered around its agricultural roots, has fully embraced this fast-growing sport.
What Makes a Great Pickleball Coach?
Before we introduce our top picks, let's talk about what separates a good coach from a great one. When you're looking for private pickleball lessons in Gilbert, consider these key qualities.
Certification and Competitive Experience
Look for coaches with recognized certifications, such as from the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR). This ensures they have been formally trained to teach proper techniques and strategies. Additionally, instructors with a history of competitive play, especially at the 5.0 level or in pro tournaments, can offer invaluable insights into game strategy and mental toughness that you won't learn anywhere else.
Coaching Style and Student Fit
A coach's teaching style should align with your learning preferences. Some instructors are highly technical and focus on perfecting mechanics, while others prioritize a fun, encouraging atmosphere. Great coaches adapt their approach to fit the student's personality and goals, whether you're a beginner just learning the rules or an advanced player refining your third shot drop.
Accessibility and Flexibility
The best coaches are accessible and can work with your schedule. Many offer lessons at various public courts around Gilbert, while others are based at specific facilities. Whether you prefer private instruction or group clinics, a good coach will provide flexible options to suit your needs.
The 5 Best Pickleball Coaches in Gilbert, AZ
Here are our top five picks for pickleball coaches in Gilbert, AZ, each bringing a unique set of skills and experiences to the court.
1. Suzee Anderson – Suzee Anderson Academy / Pickleball Backyard
Qualifications & Style:
Suzee Anderson is a PPR-certified teaching professional and former Top 10 pro player with a decade of coaching experience. As a multi-time medalist at major tournaments like the US Open and USA Pickleball Nationals, she brings elite-level knowledge to her students. Her coaching philosophy centers on building a strong foundation with fundamental mechanics for efficient, safe play. At her academy, based at Pickleball Backyard, she uses a progressive curriculum to help players minimize injury risk while reaching their full potential.
Contact:
Suzee teaches at Pickleball Backyard (868 N Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ). You can book a lesson by calling 480-803-4431 or visiting her academy website at suzeeandersonacademy.com.
2. Melissa Tafoya – On Court Adventures
Qualifications & Style:
With over 30 years of coaching experience in racquet sports, Melissa Tafoya is a PPR Certified Coach and a USPTA Elite Tennis Professional. Her company, On Court Adventures, serves the East Valley, including Gilbert. Melissa’s coaching style is a unique blend of deep technical expertise and sports psychology, helping players improve their mechanics, strategic thinking, and on-court mindset. Her dual background in tennis and pickleball makes her particularly effective at helping players refine their technique.
Contact:
Melissa can be reached through her website, oncourtadventures.com, or by calling 480-619-2252.
3. Dalton Robinson – Private Coach and 5.0 Player
Qualifications & Style:
Dalton Robinson is a Gilbert-based 5.0 player who brings extensive competitive experience to his lessons. Having played for over nine years and competed in pro-level events, Dalton understands the difference between recreational and tournament play. He is known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and detail-oriented, using tools like video feedback to help his students improve. He works with all skill levels, from beginners learning the rules to experts honing advanced strategies.
Contact:
Dalton can be booked for private and small-group lessons in Gilbert through his TeachMe.To profile.
4. Janos Hadik – Mobile Coach with Tournament Experience
Qualifications & Style:
Janos Hadik is a 4.5-rated player and mobile teaching pro who serves the entire Phoenix Valley, including Gilbert. With over 20 years of competitive tennis experience and numerous pickleball tournament wins, Janos has a strong command of racquet sports fundamentals. He is known for his patient and intuitive coaching style, tailoring instruction to each student's pace. His motto is "Let’s elevate your game together!" and he is praised for his fun, structured lessons.
Contact:
You can schedule a lesson with Janos through his profile on TeachMe.To or the Pickleheads coach directory.
5. Leann Tran – National Medalist Turned Coach
Qualifications & Style:
Leann Tran is a USA Pickleball National medalist who has recently transitioned her passion for competing into coaching. She brings a winning combination of expertise and enthusiasm to her lessons, creating a supportive and engaging environment. While beginners appreciate her clear explanations, advanced players benefit from her insights on competitive strategy and the mental side of the game. Her passion is contagious, and students praise her ability to make lessons both fun and highly effective.
Contact:
The best way to book a lesson with Leann is through her TeachMe.To profile, where she offers sessions at local courts in Gilbert and nearby cities.
Choosing the Right Coach for Your Game
With so many talented coaches available, how do you find the best fit for you? Here are a few things to consider.
Skill Level and Goals
Are you a beginner looking to learn pickleball basics, or are you an intermediate player trying to reach the next level? Identify your primary goals—whether it’s to play socially, enter a tournament, or master a specific skill—and find a coach whose expertise aligns with those goals.
Private vs. Group Lessons
Private lessons offer personalized, one-on-one attention, making them ideal for targeting specific weaknesses. Group clinics are a more affordable option and provide a great opportunity to learn strategy in a game-like setting while meeting other players. Many coaches offer both formats, allowing you to choose what works best for you.
Location and Scheduling
Convenience is key. Look for a coach who teaches at a location near you and offers lesson times that fit your schedule. The easier it is to attend lessons, the more consistent your Gilbert pickleball training will be.
Find Your Perfect Match and Elevate Your Game
If you’re serious about improving your pickleball skills, working with one of Gilbert’s top coaches is a fantastic investment. Each of the instructors on this list brings a unique style and proven success, ready to help you master everything from dinks to drives.
Don’t wait to take your game to the next level. Contact your favorite coach today or drop us a message if you’d like help picking the best fit for your game! Once you’re ready, you can also shop coach-recommended paddles to ensure you have the right gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a pickleball coach?
Look for a coach with official certifications (like PPR), competitive playing experience, and positive student reviews. Most importantly, find someone whose coaching style matches your learning preferences and goals.
How much do private pickleball lessons cost in Gilbert, AZ?
Prices vary depending on the coach's experience and qualifications but typically range from $60 to $125 per hour for a private lesson. Group lessons and clinics are often more affordable.
Are there beginner-friendly pickleball classes near me?
Yes, all the coaches listed above offer beginner pickleball lessons in Gilbert. Many local recreation centers and pickleball clubs also provide introductory clinics for new players.
Is it better to train with a private coach or attend group clinics?
It depends on your goals. Private lessons are excellent for personalized feedback and focusing on specific skills. Group clinics are great for learning game strategy, practicing with different players, and are generally more budget-friendly.
What certifications should a pickleball coach have?
The most widely recognized certification is from the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR). Other reputable certifications include those from the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA).
Can kids or teens take pickleball lessons in Gilbert?
Absolutely! Many coaches, including Melissa Tafoya, offer specialized programs for junior players. Pickleball is a fantastic sport for all ages, and professional coaching can help young players build a strong foundation.