New Jersey's Coach Certification Crisis

Be careful who you take lessons from in NJ, they may not be as "professional" as they claim. 

When you hire a certified pickleball coach for a lesson, what kind of expertise would you expect from them?

You would probably look for someone who has a strong proficiency in strategy, technique, footwork, overall comprehension of the game, and competitive success. 

There are also certain characteristics that you would not expect from a professional coach. Consider a coach who:

• Lacks directional intent and consistency

• Is not able to consistently sustain a dink rally and has not yet developed the ability to control this shot

• Does not understand court positioning

• Is still learning stroke form

• Can’t hit a consistent third shot drop

Such traits reflect the abilities of players at the 3.0-3.5 level, as defined by the USAPA. The PPR designates a minimum rating of 3.5 to be sufficient for their certification. Even so, a surprising number of coaches in New Jersey have been certified despite not reaching this minimum standard. Here is a sample of some of the DUPR ratings of "acclaimed" certified coaches in our state:

• 3.35

• 3.15

• 2.70

• 3.15

• 3.17

Many pickleball clubs around the state boast that their coaches are certified in order to lure unsuspecting clients. These customers are often willing to be charged exorbitant rates under the guise that they are receiving professional instruction. However, based on the data, it is clear that certification gives people who don’t have a full grasp of the skills and fundamentals (and the clubs that hire them) an underserved credibility. 

All that being said, there are plenty of amazing, high level, and professional coaches that teach lessons and clinics all around New Jersey. A great way to vet potential coaches is by researching their coaching experience, tournament record, and reviews from previous customers.