About Coach Zev

With over three decades of experience as a military trainer, soccer coach, graduate marketing professor, and IPTPA coach/trainer, I bring a wealth of teaching knowledge and expertise to our coaching sessions.

Beyond skills, I focus on safety and provide you with the necessary knowledge to enjoy the game and prevent injuries.

I won’t waste your time bragging about my rating (4.0) or how many gold medals I’ve won in tournaments (a few). They are not what makes one an effective coach.

Coaching requires a different set of skills:

• Coaching involves more than just following proven techniques and passing exams.

• A great coach builds a connection with their students and personalizes lessons to cater to their specific needs and skill levels.

• An exceptional coach understands that each player has their learning style and makeup. With my extensive coaching experience, I have developed skills to quickly adjust my approach to ensure maximum progress and satisfaction.

• As your pickleball coach, I focus on improving your skills and, most importantly, ensuring your safety. Although pickleball is thrilling, injuries have increased due to players not fully understanding its nuances.

Where I train?

I offer private pickleball lessons at dedicated courts in Woodbury. If you have access to a private court or want to train locally, I’ll come to you if you have private courts. Public courts are noisy; generally speaking, players rotate on each court, so the likelihood of grabbing a court for one hour is very low.

What will you need?

If you’re brand new, I have paddles for you to play with. You only need court shoes (tennis or pickleball sneakers, NOT running shoes!). For your initial lesson, you can wear regular sneakers until you decide if you like the game, as we won’t be doing any running or full-court movements.

How many students train at the same time?

This is private, hands-on training. You can bring a family member or friend. If you join a group lesson (with players at your level), they will never exceed a 1:4 ratio (or max four players).

How much do you charge?

Over 50% of the students that I coach come to me after 4-5 weeks of group lessons and frankly, they learned very little. There’s no substitute for 1x1 coaching and the attention you’ll get. It should also be affordable and allow you to take a few lessons compared with the price you’ll pay elsewhere - private lessons at clubs range from $80to $100/hour (court fee, coach fee plus tip).

Lessons are typically one hour long and combine skills, drills, and simulated play. They can be extended to 1.5 hours upon request. A private 1x1 coaching session is $50/hour. If you bring a friend or family member, the cost per player drops to $25/hour. For example, a husband/wife lesson will cost $50/hour. Payments are required when reservations are made (Venmo/Zelle).

Cancellation: I understand that things happen. I also request a minimum 12-hour cancellation notice as a courtesy and respect for my time and commitment. If you choose not to proceed with any lesson and don’t want to reschedule, you will receive a full refund without any strings attached.