Wolcott ParkPickleball Venue in West Hartford, CT

With close to 40 years of training / coaching athletes from a multitude of recreational and professional sport disciplines , the exciting culture of pickleball is now my focus. Incorporating 25 years of professional, collegiate and recreational tennis training, the crossover into helping Pickleball players of all levels unlock their potential is my passion. Whether you're a beginner just discovering the sport or a seasoned competitor looking to amp your game, I'm here to guide you with a blend of fun, biomechanics, technique, and encouragement not to mention the requisite footwork, power and fitness aspects to the sport.

"Very good teacher. Learned a lot!

I’m certified with honors as a pickleball instructor and a certified skill rater (PCI). I promote enjoyment, mastery, and victory, but safety first. I currently play at a 5.0+ skill level (PCI and USAP; not DUPR rated). I’m available as a coach, trainer, and hitting partner. My first task with you is to rate your skill level, so a PCI rating is included, if you want: My lessons are tailored to your goals (competition or recreation) and your stage of progress. For minor athletes, I follow MAAPP standards from U.S. Center for SafeSport.

"I recently had the pleasure of taking a pickleball lesson with Mike, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. Mike’s teaching style is engaging and approachable, making it easy for players of all skill levels to feel comfortable and motivated. He took the time to assess my current abilities and tailored the lesson to focus on areas where I needed improvement, such as footwork and shot accuracy. His clear explanations and demonstrations helped me grasp complex techniques quickly, and he provided valuable feedback in a way that was constructive without feeling overwhelming. Mike's ability to break down the game’s nuances made me feel more confident on the court. What really stood out during the lesson was Mike’s enthusiasm and passion for the game. His energy was infectious, and it made the session not only educational but also enjoyable. He encouraged me to push my limits while maintaining a supportive atmosphere, ensuring I was always focused on having fun while improving. By the end of the lesson, I felt more confident in my skills and excited to apply what I had learned. Mike’s expertise and genuine love for pickleball truly shine through in his teaching, and I can’t wait to take another lesson with him in the future.