Forgot password
Cart ()

The City of Prescott has approved the following Prescott Pickleball Association members as instructors at the public courts. They are required to carry insurance and pay a commission to the city (since they are using public courts). Please contact and hire them directly.

Rick Bothel

IPTPA Level 1 Certified Pickleball Instructor

rkbothell@gmail.com

(928) 308-1861 (Cell)

I played competition tennis for 40 years.  During that time and more I taught and coached tennis privately, publicly, and at Prescott High School.  I learned quickly that “Technique is Everything”.  A person must know how to stroke the ball and how to move.  During my two years of teaching pickleball I have focused on techniques to help my students perform like accomplished players. I have video recorded others and me to analyze footwork and stroke production.  Yes, I watch the ball but still have mishits.  What does that mean?  Think shoulders.   I ask my students why are we here together today?  I listen.  I help that student with his/her specific needs.  “Rick, I’m a new beginner, can you help me?” Yes.    Do you want a general review?  Do you want to improve your backhand volley?  How about more advance doubles strategies?  I can help.  Do you want a competitive topspin baseline backhand ground stroke.  Good luck.  Without many years of competitive tennis, this is extremely difficult.  Stick with your mild slice.   I instruct using whole, part, whole methods.  I use guided practice.  I sometimes use “Inner Tennis/Pickleball.”   “Why won’t my serve go in?  I use all 10 serve pointers that I was taught last week.”  Yes, that’s why. 

Curt Thon

IPTPA Level 1 Certified Pickleball Instructor

curt.thon@gmail.com

(928) 350-7257 (Text)

Did you know the first rule of pickleball is to have fun? Since first picking up a paddle in 2015 I have tried to share the game with anyone who wants to learn how to play, and am currently working to grow the pickleball program in three local communities.

If you are making too many unforced errors, understanding court zones and how to select your best shot may help. Too many players make the mistake of attacking the wrong ball. Be patient and play defense until you have the opportunity to score.

If you want to improve your skills, and start to have years of enjoyment on the courts, contact me. Private lessons available for single players or couples. For small groups of 3 or 4 newer players, I have a 4 lesson program designed to build your skills and get you on the courts with confidence.


Sue Brogaard

PPR Level 1 Certified Professional

qbert813@gmail.com

(608) 790-0709 Call or text


I am a Wisconsin “cheesehead” and made the move to Arizona 8 years ago. I had never even heard of the game of pickleball until I got out here. I played one day for 2 hours and I was hooked!!! I play in A LOT of tournaments and have won numerous medals. I have taken lessons from several pro level players and continue to learn and enhance my skills. I became a certified pickleball instructor in April 2021 and I love teaching this great game to as many people as I can.

I was a PE/Health major and after college, taught PE and Health to junior high and high school students for 6 years and also coached basketball, volleyball and track. I quit teaching and went back to school and received a degree in Computer Information Systems. I retired in 2012 from a job in Wisconsin in the computer technology field.

I believe that people of all ages can enjoy the game of pickleball and that it is a great game for the 55+ crowd. It is good exercise and a fantastic way to meet new people.

I enjoy running\jogging and weight training, working in my flower garden, taking voice lessons and singing with the Yavapai College Master Chorale.

Since I was a teacher in a 'former' life, I decided to teach pickleball here in AZ.  I find it immensely rewarding and I think I do a good job with my students. I am able to analyze a player's movement to help them achieve more consistent shots.

I play women's and mixed doubles at the 4.5 65+ level. I am a firm believer in the the soft game(vs slamming) and play a controlled game at least 85-90% of the time. 

P.J. Janik 

Certified Pickleball Coach

pjjanik33@gmail.com

(928) 237-0452 Call or text

My name is P.J . Janik and similar to the other instructors, my first rule to a better understanding of the game of Pickleball is to remember, “it’s just Pickleball” and to enjoy it! Having said that, I can confidently assure you that you will have a lot of fun learning this great game whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced intermediate player. I can help you learn the rules, the techniques, tactics and most importantly the significance of sportsmanship as it plays into this game.

I am a native of Arizona having played competitive tennis from high school into college, later playing for Phoenix College. (But don’t hold that against me!) . After graduating from Phoenix College, I transferred and graduated at ASU. My past 40 year career in law enforcement gave me the opportunity to become a general instructor and later a certified physical fitness instructor. In other words, I know how to relate (listen) to my players and adapt to their way of learning without getting them injured! I also have attended a basic Pickleball referee seminar, taught by none other, Doug Seefeld! If you don’t see me at Pioneer Park, you will see me working out at the Prescott YMCA. Besides Pickleball, one of my fitness hobbies is running. I have participated in numerous Whiskey Row 10k running events.

I choose to become a certified Pickleball coach through Pickleball Coaching International (PCI) as it was one of the more difficult Pickleball credentialing organizations. This organization is now part of Selkirk. As part of the coach/student experience, PCI required me to reach out and get the support of a lot of friends to complete the evaluation purposes. As a result, I feel even more confident in demonstrating and helping students learn the fundamentals and skills to develop a fun game of Pickleball. I currently play at the 3.6 level and have medaled in Men’s Doubles and Men’s Singles.


Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software