Manahasset ParkPickleball Venue in Long Branch, NJ

Tennis has been a lifelong passion for me, but about three years ago, the magnetic allure of pickleball caught my attention. Intrigued and motivated to spread my love for this sport, I pursued PPR certification and embarked on a teaching journey that has now spanned over a year. My teaching endeavors have seen me conducting numerous classes, reaching out to hundreds of players at various levels of expertise, all within the welcoming environment of the YMCA. Pickleball is more than a game; it's a community, a vibrant connection of enthusiasts coming together to enjoy the thrill of the sport. As a dedicated instructor, my mission is to share this excitement and the skills that make the game enjoyable for players of all backgrounds and levels. My goal is to contribute to the growth of pickleball and help individuals discover the joy of this engaging and dynamic sport.

"I love James! Best coach for a newbie like me.

I have been playing pickleball for the last three- and one-half years. During this time, I have come to embrace the fun and exciting world that pickleball offers. It is a unique sport that is both social and competitive. I am an experienced player with one year of coaching under my belt. I passed the PPR level 1 coaching course in February 2023 and passed the PPR level 2 coaching course in December 2024. In addition, I recently took and passed the Youth Development Course that PPR offers. These courses certify me to be able to teach pickleball to all ages across all levels. I am passionate about helping others discover the joy of this sport. My coaching style combines technical expertise with a fun, safe, supportive and inclusive environment with the aim to elevate a player’s game. Some of my goals are as follows.  I would like to promote physical and social activity for people of all ages, cultures, sexes and ethnicities, as playing pickleball is an excellent antidote to a sedentary and lonely lifestyle (especially as we age).  I would like to build and maintain positive coaching relationships with people of all generation, from all walks of life. I believe all our lives will be enriched if we confect with people of varying backgrounds.

"Thank you, Marcel. So exciting, so fun, so cardio. Couldn’t ask for more. Just keeps getting better and better.