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Nick Black

Hometown: Colorado

Nick is a professional pickleball player who has quickly made a name for himself in the sport since beginning his career in 2021. Now based in Southern California, he serves as the Head Pickleball Professional at Nellie Gail Ranch Tennis & Pickleball Club in Laguna Hills, where he works with players of all skill levels and backgrounds.

In just a few years, Nick has earned multiple wins over top PPA and APP touring professionals and has established himself as one of the top players in Southern California. He made his first center court appearance at the PPA Masters against Ben Johns, highlighting his rapid rise in the professional game. Off the court, Nick co-founded FUN Pickleball alongside his girlfriend, Maggie Brascia, and her sister Mary Brascia, both touring professionals on the PPA Tour.

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Fern Esquivel

Fern Esquivel

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Education: Bachelor’s Degree from The Ohio State University

Fern discovered pickleball in 2018 and has been hooked ever since. While attending THE Ohio State University, he founded the school’s pickleball program, which quickly became one of the top collegiate programs in the country. Under his leadership, Ohio State qualified for nationals every year and inspired the creation of pickleball programs at other major universities, including the University of Pittsburgh and Indiana University.

After graduating, Fern served as Director of Pickleball and Tournaments at a major facility, helping grow community participation and elevate event operations. He later played a key role in building the DUPR Collegiate Circuit, connecting and developing college programs nationwide. Most recently, Fern became the Director of Operations for the Columbus Sliders of Major League Pickleball, where he helped the team rise from one of the league’s lowest-ranked to 2025 MLP National Champions.

Fluent in Spanish and known for his humor, energy, and passion for the game, Fern brings a fun and welcoming presence to every court he steps on.

Coaching and Experience:

Founder of The Ohio State University Pickleball Program

Former Director of Pickleball and Tournaments

Director of Operations, Columbus Sliders (2025 MLP National Champions)

Helped develop the DUPR Collegiate Circuit

Fluent in Spanish

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Vivian Glozman

Hometown: Bellevue, WA
Education: UC Berkeley & University of Virginia (Division I Tennis)

Vivian is a top-10 professional pickleball player known for her competitive drive, athleticism, and strategic mindset. Before transitioning to pickleball, she was the No. 1 ranked junior tennis player in the Pacific Northwest and went on to compete at the Division I level for both UC Berkeley and the University of Virginia.

Since turning professional, Vivian has quickly risen through the ranks, achieving a career-high world ranking of No. 7 in 2025 and earning recognition as one of the top DUPR-rated female players. She has competed in nearly 50 professional tournaments, playing over 350 matches and earning 12 career medals, including gold at the 2025 PPA Australia Open.

Vivian has a passion for coaching and brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to player development. Known for her composure, power, and precise shot selection, she helps players of all levels improve through a balance of strategy, focus, and fun. A proud Bellevue native, Vivian is excited to share her love of pickleball on and off the court.

Coaching and Experience:
Top-10 professional pickleball player
Former Division I collegiate tennis player
12+ professional medals across PPA events
Specializes in strategy, shot selection, and match play development

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Irina Tereschenko

Hometown: Moscow, Russia
Education: Texas Tech University (College Tennis)

Irina is one of the most accomplished players in pickleball history, highlighted by five Major League Pickleball championships—the most ever—along with two US Open and National titles. She is also a former world #1 in singles, showcasing her dominance across multiple formats of the game.

With over 20 years of experience playing and coaching racket sports around the world, Irina has made a global impact on the growth of pickleball, helping introduce and develop the sport in places like Russia and Hong Kong. Currently, she coaches the Fresno State University pickleball team while continuing to compete on the professional tour.

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Ben McNair

Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Education: PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Master’s in Kinesiology and Health, Bachelor’s in Exercise Science


Ben has lived in Alaska, Oregon, and Wyoming before settling in Las Vegas, where he now calls home. A former collegiate tennis player, Ben eventually traded in his racket for a paddle during his graduate studies and has been hooked on pickleball ever since.
With over 14 years of combined coaching experience in tennis and pickleball, Ben is an RPO-certified instructor known for his energy, humor, and signature “no-look” shot. He’s been competing professionally for more than two years and travels across the country to teach, play, and share his love for the sport.
 Ben’s passion for pickleball and strong background in exercise science make him a dynamic and insightful coach who connects easily with players of all levels.

Coaching and Experience:
 RPO Certified Pickleball Instructor
 14+ years of coaching experience (tennis & pickleball)
 Professional Pickleball Player
 Former Collegiate Tennis Player
 Specializes in biomechanics and performance training

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Billy Buchhauser


Hometown: San Diego, CA
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology, Minor in Coaching

Billy brings a strong athletic and coaching background to the pickleball court. A former college lacrosse player at Chico State University, he transitioned into pickleball after several years as a middle school PE teacher and high school lacrosse coach.

Now based in Meridian, Idaho, Billy serves as the Head Pro at The Flying Pickle, where he shares his passion for the game and player development. Competing at the professional level in PPA events across the country, as well as the Challenger Series, Billy combines high-level experience with a deep commitment to helping players improve and reach their full potential.

 

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Sophia Phuong Anh Tran

Sophia is one of Asia’s brightest rising stars in pickleball and the youngest professional player on the PPA Asia Tour. Born in 2008, Sophia discovered pickleball in March 2024 while recovering from a tennis shoulder injury. What began as rehab quickly became a passion; within months, she was competing internationally.

In her debut at the WPC Carmelina (Vietnam) in April 2024, Sophia captured gold in U18 Girls Singles and bronze medals in both Intermediate Women’s Doubles and Advanced Mixed Doubles, signaling the start of her competitive career. Since then, she has competed across Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Bali, and the U.S., gaining attention for her skill, maturity, and fearless play.

Sophia’s defining moment came when she was selected as one of only 12 athletes in Asia for the UPA Asia Trailblazers Program, an elite initiative designed to develop top regional talent. During this 3-month training period, she reached the main draws in Women’s Singles and Doubles at the PPA San Clemente Cup, officially earning her first PPA points and solidifying her place among the sport’s next generation of pros.

Career Highlights and Accomplishments:

- DUPR Global Junior Rankings: Top 21 in Girls Doubles, Top 11 in Girls Singles

- PPA Rankings: #140 in Women’s Doubles, #132 in Women’s Singles, #222 in Mixed Doubles

- UPA Asia Trailblazers Athlete

- Gold Medalist – U18 Girls Singles (WPC Carmelina, Vietnam)

Sophia trains five days a week and competes in two to three tournaments each month, with ambitious goals ahead—to become Asia’s #1 female player, win a Triple Crown, and break into more PPA U.S. events.

 

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Chris "Mills" Miller

Hometown: Pacific Northwest
Education: Background in Physical Education and Coaching

Mills is a seasoned professional in the pickleball world, with a deep athletic foundation in baseball and basketball. He discovered pickleball in high school and college, where his growing passion for the game inspired his career as a high school PE teacher and baseball coach.

Chris has been competing at the highest level of tournament pickleball since 1989 and has amassed one of the sport’s most impressive résumés. Chris has also played a key leadership role in the pickleball community. Since 2015, he has served as Head Pickleball Pro at Bobby Riggs Racquet & Paddle for four years. He has toured extensively, coaching both domestically and internationally at tournaments, camps, and clinics.

Career Highlights & Accomplishments:

  • 100+ career gold medals 🏅

  • 75+ silver and 75+ bronze medals

  • Open Pro Singles National Champion (2010)

  • 2× Open Pro Singles National Silver Medalist (2009, 2011)

  • 10× Nationals Champion

  • 3× Canadian Nationals Champion & 3× Silver Medalist 🥈

  • 6× Grand Canyon Champion 
  • 2023 NPL World  Champion 

Coaching and Experience:

  • High school PE teacher and baseball coach

  • Head Pickleball Pro at Bobby Riggs Racquet & Paddle

  • International coach for camps, clinics, and competitive training

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Kaitlyn Kerr

Hometown: Bensalem, PA
 Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Markets and Management Certificate, Duke University
 MBA, Fox School of Business, Temple University

Kaitlyn has been immersed in the world of pickleball since 2021, blending high-level competition with impactful leadership and event management. A former All-American soccer player at Duke University, Kaitlyn brings her elite athletic background to the court, where she now competes at a low professional level in pickleball.

Her contributions to the sport go far beyond playing. Kaitlyn has hosted some of the biggest pickleball events in the world, built and managed a Major League Pickleball team, and sits on the Board of Directors for Pickleball Cares. She also completed a fellowship with USA Pickleball during her MBA program and is passionate about sharing the sport through media and community outreach.

Whether she’s leading international tournaments, creating viral content as @Pickleball.Chick, or hosting insightful interviews on her podcast "Talk Pickle To Me," Kaitlyn is dedicated to growing the game and making it accessible and exciting for all.

Experience and Contributions:

  • Former All-American soccer player at Duke University

  • General Manager of a Major League Pickleball team for 2 years

  • Hosted major global events including:

    • Major League Pickleball

    • PPA Tour

    • Indian Open

    • Katy Perry’s Firework Foundation

    • Necker Island Pickleball Forum

    • Pickleball World Tour debut in Dubai

  • Completed USA Pickleball fellowship during MBA program

  • Board of Directors member, Pickleball Cares

  • Creator of @Pickleball.Chick

  • Host of "Talk Pickle To Me" podcast

Sponsors: Joola, PodPlay, Dill Dinkers

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Hugo Kouhkna

 Hometown: Tallinn, Estonia (currently based in Tampa, FL)

Hugo is a competitive pickleball player whose journey began on the tennis court. After training at the renowned Chris Evert Tennis Academy in Boca Raton and competing at a high level in tennis, he made a successful transition to the pro pickleball tour.

He has reached the quarterfinals in men’s doubles at the New Jersey APP and currently serves as a training and coaching partner to Ben Johns, one of the sport’s top pros. As a certified PPR teaching professional and coach with Pickleball Getaways, Hugo is dedicated to growing the game and helping players refine their skills in a fun, energetic environment—both on and off the court.

Whether coaching, competing, or exploring new destinations, Hugo brings passion, precision, and a love for connection to everything he does.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Certified PPR Teaching Professional

  • Coach with Pickleball Getaways
  • Former high-level tennis player

  • Trained at Chris Evert Tennis Academy

  • Training and coaching partner to Ben Johns

Competition Highlights:

  • Quarterfinalist in Men’s Doubles at the New Jersey APP

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Brandon Nsekpong

Hometown: Dallas, TX (currently based in Austin, TX)

Brandon Nsekpong, a 32-year-old professional pickleball player from Dallas, Texas, comes from a Nigerian heritage and now lives in Austin, Texas with his wife and 1-year-old son. When he's not competing or coaching, Brandon works full-time at Amazon.

Brandon’s journey into racquet sports began at the age of 7, when he picked up a table tennis paddle and developed a love for racquet games. This early exposure led to several US Open appearances, setting the stage for his transition to pickleball. After playing pickleball for about 5 years, Brandon went pro in 2021, and his career has since flourished. With over eight top-10 finishes in various tournaments, he is currently ranked #38 in the world.

Brandon's presence at the Pickleball Getaways event in the Mayan Riviera in December 2022 made the experience even more unforgettable, and we’re excited to have him teach and inspire future guests on more Getaways.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Professional pickleball player since 2021

  • Over 8 top-10 finishes in tournaments
  • Ranked #38 in the world
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Brian Ashworth 

Brian has been playing and teaching pickleball for nearly 12 years, gaining a wealth of experience as the sport has grown into the global phenomenon it is today. Without a background in racquet sports, Brian is a true pickleball original—learning, competing, and coaching alongside top professionals around the world.

Known for his clever teaching style, high-energy presence, and entertaining play, Brian brings both knowledge and fun to the court. He proudly represents Oneshot Pickleball and continues to share his passion with players of all levels.

Brian joined Pickleball Getaways in Portugal in the summer of 2022, where he made a lasting impression with guests through his enthusiasm and expertise. We’re excited to have him back for more Getaways in the future!

Coaching and Experience:

  • 12 years of playing and teaching experience

  • Has coached and competed with top pros worldwide

  • Pickleball Getaways coach

Sponsors: Oneshot Pickleball

Known For:

  • Creative, insightful instruction

  • High-energy play

  • Bringing excitement to every court he steps on

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Rob Cassidy

Hometown: Estero, Florida 

With over ten years of pickleball experience, Rob Cassidy brings a positive and insightful perspective to every player he teaches. His passion for giving back to the game is evident, as he loves using teaching as a way to share his expertise: “I enjoy giving back to the game, and teaching is a great way for me to do that.” This dedication is one of the many reasons we’re excited to have Rob join our Pickleball Getaways!

Rob holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and has a diverse sports background, including ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and ping-pong. He has been playing professionally since 2013, and his competitive resume includes medals at Nationals, the US Open, and numerous APP and PPA Pro events. Rob is currently a Gold Card PPA player and plays on the Utah Black Diamond’s MLP Team.

As a certified IPTPA Instructor and the Co-Director and Founder of Ultimate Pickleball Academy, Rob is as experienced in teaching as he is in competing. He has been coaching for eight years and is known for transforming players’ games at all skill levels. Rob has coached in over 30 states and 3 countries with LevelUp Camps, EngagePickleball Camps, Boost Camps, and Pickleball Getaways.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Certified IPTPA Instructor

  • Co-Director and Founder of Ultimate Pickleball Academy

  • Coaching for 8 years, transforming players at all skill levels
  • Has coached in over 30 states and 3 countries

  • Worked with LevelUp Camps, EngagePickleball Camps, Boost Camps, and Pickleball Getaways

Competition Highlights:

  • Medaled at Nationals, the US Open, and multiple APP and PPA Pro events

  • Gold Card PPA player

Member of Utah Black Diamond’s MLP Team

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Michelle Esquivel

 Hometown: Estero, Florida 

Michelle was introduced to pickleball in 2014 and transitioned to teaching and playing professionally full-time in 2018. Since then, she has medaled in several PPA and APP tournaments in both Pro Singles and Pro Doubles divisions and has played in all Major League Pickleball seasons.

Before diving into pickleball, Michelle earned a full tennis scholarship at Concordia University, Irvine, where she graduated with a BA in Exercise Sports Science with an emphasis in teaching and coaching. After graduation, Michelle became a USPTA-certified instructor at Matchpoint Tennis Academy and later served as a collegiate tennis coach at both Orange Coast College and Cypress College. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University, preparing her to teach Kinesiology courses at the collegiate level.

As a passionate teacher and coach, Michelle has established herself as one of the top instructors in the pickleball community. She is IPTPA certified and the Founder & Co-Director of Ultimate Pickleball Academy. Additionally, Michelle has years of teaching experience with EngagePickleball Camps, LevelUp, Suncoast Pickleball Academy, Naples Pickleball Center, Toss and Spin, and—her favorite—Pickleball Getaways.

Coaching and Experience:

  • IPTPA Certified

  • Founder & Co-Director of Ultimate Pickleball Academy
  • BA in Exercise Sports Science from Concordia University, Irvine

  • Master’s Degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University

  • USPTA Certified Tennis Instructor

  • Years of teaching experience with EngagePickleball Camps, LevelUp, Suncoast Pickleball Academy, Naples Pickleball Center, Toss and Spin, and Pickleball Getaways

Jem Morris

Jem Morris 

Hometown: Orcas Island, WA
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Acting and Directing from Carroll College in Helena, MT

Jem is the co-founder and a teaching pro at The Pickleball Experience, alongside fellow co-founders Brian Ashworth and Peter Hudachko. Together, the trio creates custom training experiences for pickleball communities all over the world.

With a dynamic athletic background that includes competitive cycling, basketball, diving, and a 6-year black belt in Tae Kwon Do, Jem brings a wide range of movement expertise and discipline to the court. He has been playing pickleball for over 8 years and teaching for 6, earning his PPR Certified Pro Trainer credentials and working with players of all skill levels.

Starting as a 3.0, Jem has both lost and medaled in every division up to 5.0, including taking home gold at the Guatemala Cup and medaling in PPA 5.0 events. His journey through the ranks gives him unique insight into the challenges players face at every level, and how to overcome them.

Jem’s favorite thing about pickleball is the amazing people he meets along the way. He’s passionate about helping players grow in their game with creative drills, strategic insights, technical refinement, and a deep dive into the mental game.

Coaching and Experience:

  • PPR Certified Pro Trainer

  • 6 years of teaching experience

  • Co-founder of The Pickleball Experience

Favorite Part of the Game:
 Meeting amazing people, and helping players improve through strategy, technique, and mental toughness.

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Peter Hudachko

Hometown: Ravensdale, WA
 Current Profession: Head Teaching Pro at The Ranch Pickleball Retreat | Co-Owner of The Pickleball Experience

Peter has been immersed in the pickleball world for over 13 years and has taught full-time for the past 9. With a background in college baseball and a love for golf (plus the occasional hacky sack session), Peter brings an athletic and approachable energy to the court. He served as the head pickleball pro at Pickleball Central, where he played a key role in developing some of the Pacific Northwest’s top talent.

Peter is known for his passionate coaching style, blending technical skill with encouragement and positive reinforcement. His greatest satisfaction comes from seeing his students grow in confidence, both on and off the court.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Head Teaching Pro at The Ranch Pickleball Retreat

  • Former Head Pro at Pickleball Central

  • Over 9 years of full-time teaching experience

  • Bronze Medalist – Tournament of Champions

  • Silver Medalist – PPA 5.0

  • Silver Medalist – US Open 5.0

  • Gold Medalist Instructor

Favorite Getaway: Mayan Riviera – for the beach and the pickleball

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Hometown: INSERT HOMETOWN

Education: INSERT EDUCATION

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Coaching and Experience:
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Sponsors: INSERT SPONSORS

Favorite Getaway: INSERT FAVORITE GETAWAY

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Matthew Boyett

Hometown: Rockvale, TN

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from Middle Tennessee State University

Currently admin for Pickleball Getaways and the Lead Pro at Lifetime in Franklin, TN. Matthew attends a few trips a year as a coach and helps with the everyday tasks of Getaways. He began playing in 2015 when his now wife invited him for the first time. Matthew started as a true beginner player with no racket sports and progressed to playing open level tournaments. He loves helping all levels of players unlock their full potential through his coaching progressions.

Coaching and Experience:
  • PPR Certified
  • 10+ years playing and 6+ years of coaching
  • Gold medalist in the open level
  • Favorite thing to teach: Transition zone, backhand roll, and group play

Sponsors: Onix

Favorite Getaway: Antigua 2024

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Hannah Johns

Hometown: Austin, TX

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Maryland Global Campus

Hannah has been involved in the world of pickleball since 2020 and has amassed a wide variety of playing and teaching knowledge. Her knowledge of strategy and the game's development over the years is unparalleled, having studied the sport for years while working with the PPA. From playing competitively, to interviewing players, to commentating professional matches, to writing analyses of the sport for PPA viewers, Hannah has done it all.

Hannah’s dedication to exploring every facet of pickleball makes her a notable figure in the industry. She has been analyzing and playing pickleball longer than most professional players, which makes her a valuable coach and a wealth of knowledge.

Coaching and Experience:
  • Extensive experience in playing, teaching, and analyzing pickleball
  • Expert in strategy and game development
  • Contributions to the PPA tour as a commentator and analyst
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Georgia Johns

Hometown: Laytonsville, MD

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management and Operations Management & Business Analytics from the University of Maryland

Currently Operations Manager at Pickleball Getaways, Georgia frequently attends Getaways as both a coordinator and coach. She has played pickleball since 2016 and taught since 2022. She began playing collegiate pickleball in her second year at UMD, and has continued to train, compete, and coach since graduating!

Coaching and Experience:
  • Member of UMD’s collegiate team
  • 8+ years playing and 2+ years coaching
  • Gold medalist at 5.0 level
  • Favorite thing to teach: kitchen positioning

Favorite Getaway: Slovenia 2024

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Tea Zonich

Hometown: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Education: Graduated from the University of Texas at El Paso

Originally from Serbia, Tea began her athletic journey with tennis and earned a D1 scholarship at the same school Martina Kochli attended! After a decade of coaching tennis, Tea discovered pickleball through Martina and became an enthusiastic player and coach. She now focuses on developing pickleball in Slovenia.

Coaching and Experience:
  • Background in tennis coaching and pickleball
  • Implemented pickleball clinics at Houston Country Club
  • Coaches tennis and promotes pickleball in Ljubljana
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Allie Davis

Hometown: Las Vegas, NV

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Colorado Mesa University

After teaching kindergarten for 5 years, Allie transitioned to teaching pickleball full time. Allie played collegiate soccer and found pickleball after suffering 2 ACL tears. She has been playing since 2019 and has qualified for main draw in both mixed and women’s doubles on the PPA tour.
Allie’s diverse background in education and sports enhances her coaching, and her sweet and enthusiastic demeanor encourages players of all levels to improve their game. She is a certified instructor with the Racketpro Organization, a curriculum designed by Collin Johns. You can find her on most Pickleball Getaways!

Coaching and Experience:

  • 6+ years of teaching and playing pickleball professionally
  • Racketpro certified instructor
  • Collegiate soccer player

Sponsor: Selkirk

Favorite Getaway: Portugal

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Taylor Hubschman

Hometown: South Florida

Taylor Hubschman began her pickleball journey 7 years ago, inspired by her parents and driven by her competitive spirit from soccer and softball. Within a month of starting to play pickleball, Taylor began competing in tournaments nationwide and became a sponsored pro with Selkirk. She holds titles at prestigious events such as the US Open, World Pickleball Open, and World Pickleball Championship. Currently, Taylor coaches the St. Louis Shock for Major League Pickleball.

Coaching and Experience:
  • 7+ years of pickleball experience
  • Specializes in group clinics, round robins, and doubles strategy

Sponsors: Selkirk

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Brandon Hubschman

Hometown: South Florida

Brandon Hubschman has been a prominent figure in pickleball for 8 years, amassing over 150 medals throughout his career. His impressive collection includes Gold Medals and Age Titles at major events such as the U.S. Open, National Championships, World Pickleball Open, and World Pickleball Championships. Formerly a teaching pro at two communities in Boca Raton, Brandon now plays a dual role as both a drafter and coach for the St. Louis Shock of Major League Pickleball, working alongside his wife, Taylor.

Brandon’s hand in coaching, competing, and design has led to him becoming an expert in all-things-pickleball! A respected figure both on and off the court, Brandon’s enthusiasm and creativity make him stand out in the pickleball community.

Coaching and Experience:
  • 8+ years of pickleball experience
  • Amateur and professional coach
  • Director of Design at Selkirk

Sponsors: Selkirk

Chris Harradine

Bry Ojeda

Formerly a D1 tennis athlete at UCSB (with an undefeated junior year in singles!), Bry recently transitioned to pickleball. Bry was inspired by her mom, Kelly, who is a super senior pro player. Bry loves staying active, which includes things like hiking, spikeball, aerials, beach volleyball, and, of course, tennis. Bry is now dedicated to training professionally in pickleball.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Former D1 tennis athlete
  • Competitive pickleball player and coach
Chris Harradine

Danny Jensen

Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ

Currently a touring pro pickleball player, Danny started playing the sport about 4 years ago after a 17-year career in soccer. He has competed in many tournaments, medaling at the US Open and on the APP and PPA tours. Danny has coached all across the US and internationally!

Coaching and Experience:
  • 4+ years of pickleball experience
  • 17 years of soccer experience
  • Coached in 10 states and 11 countries

Sponsors: Proton, Happy Valley Pickleball

Chris Harradine

Sydnee Metzold

Hometown: Fort Myers, Florida

Originally from Albany, New York, Sydnee began playing pickleball in 2022 and quickly advanced to competitive tournaments. With a background in college soccer and tennis, she now actively participates in the APP and PPA tours and recently signed with the Canadian league NAPP.

Sydnee’s rapid progression in pickleball makes her an exciting player to watch and a passionate coach eager to share her knowledge. She is known for her elegant technique and engagement on court!

Coaching and Experience:
  • 2+ years of pickleball experience
  • Background in college soccer and tennis
  • Individual and group clinic coach
Chris Harradine

Chris Harradine

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Chris began playing tennis at age 5 and transitioned to coaching at just 14 years old. He developed a notable career in tennis, reaching a high ranking in Australia. Chris moved to the USA in 2001 to work with Pepperdine University’s tennis camps and other prestigious clubs.

Chris met Collin Johns while consulting at Baltimore Country Club in 2021. Since then, Collin has coached Chris and assisted in designing Chris’s company U.S. Pickleball Camps. Chris and Collin run clinics together when they have time, often while attending Pickleball Getaways!

Chris’s background in tennis and coaching makes him an ideal coach for players at any level, and his work with U.S. Pickleball Camps, RPO, and Pickleball Getaways reflects his dedication to the growth of pickleball. Chris loves what he does and is excited to keep expanding the sport globally!

Coaching and Experience:
  • Extensive background in tennis and pickleball coaching
  • Director of Tennis at Pepperdine Crest Associates and North Ranch Country Club
  • Co-owner of U.S. Pickleball Camps
  • PPR certified
  • Lead Certifying Coach for Racket Professional Organization (RPO)
  • Touring Pickleball Pro at Sherwood Country Club

Sponsors: Joola and Pickleball Central

Favorite Getaway: Costa Rica and Slovenia

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Paul Palermo

Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ

Paul is the Director of Racquet Sports at Riverland in Port St. Lucie, where he has competed at the 5.0 level and medaled at the US Open and on the APP and PPA tours. Paul’s strategic insights and competitive experience make him a skilled and knowledgeable coach, eager to share his expertise with others.

Coaching and Experience:
  • 6 years in pickleball, 6 years teaching
  • Competed and medaled at the US Open, APP, and PPA tours
  • Specializes in strategy
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Courtney Palermo

Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ

Courtney co-directs the Sports & Racquet Club at Riverland with her husband, Paul. Courtney’s enthusiasm for teaching and her dedication to player development make her a dynamic and engaging coach, committed to spreading the love of pickleball.

Coaching and Experience:
  • 7 years in pickleball, 6 years teaching
  • Co-director at the Sports & Racquet Club at Riverland
  • Specializes in strategy and court coverage
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Jordi Vigna

Hometown: Galt, CA

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management from California Baptist University

Jordi Vigna is a touring pro in Canada and the owner of Elite Pickleball. With 4 years of experience in pickleball, Jordi has built a successful career both as a competitor and coach. She was a 1st Round Draft Pick for the Canadian National Pickleball League and is a two-time Gold Medalist in Mixed Doubles at the Montréal Open in 2023 and 2024. Before pickleball, Jordi excelled in multiple sports, including winning a USA National Championship in Spikeball, and playing volleyball, soccer, basketball, softball, swimming, and track & field.

Known for her drive and commitment, Jordi is a trailblazer in the Canadian pickleball scene. Her ability to empower players with similar confidence has made her a cherished coach—particularly at Pickleball Getaways, which she has been working with for years!

Coaching and Experience:
  • IPTPA Director
  • Director and Head Pro at Elite Pickleball Academy
  • Programming Director at Centre Pickle in Montréal
  • Specializes in teaching resets

Sponsors: Joola

Favorite Getaway: Costa Rica

Dekel Bar

Preston Bies

Hometown: Santa Barbara, CA

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology

Preston has a diverse background in professional sports, having excelled in beach volleyball and becoming a world champion in spikeball before transitioning to pickleball. Though relatively new to the professional pickleball scene, Preston’s athletic abilities and competitive drive are quickly propelling him toward success.

Preston began teaching sports at the young age of 12 and uses his extensive coaching experience and knowledge of exercise physiology to help players improve. Known for his engaging personality and skillful demonstrations, Preston has been a coach at Pickleball Getaways for many years and attends almost every trip! His passion for the game, combined with his perseverance and teaching expertise, make him stand out on and off the court.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Former professional beach volleyball player
  • Former professional spikeball player
  • Specializes in identifying movement deficiencies and finding the root cause of bad habits

Sponsors: Joola

Favorite Getaway: Mexico and Portugal

Dekel Bar

Martina Kochli

Hometown: Tampa, FL

Education: Graduated from the University of Texas at El Paso

Originally from Ljubljana, Slovenia, Martina Kochli moved to the US to play D1 tennis. She transitioned from a professional tennis career to full-time pickleball in 2018 and never looked back! Martina co-founded the organization American Pickleball to support veterans and local communities, and she runs events all over the country with her husband Andrew.

Martina’s global experience and commitment to pickleball’s growth make her a prominent and impactful figure in the sport. She is known for her charisma and positive attitude while coaching, making sure that everyone has a good time and learns something new every day.

Coaching and Experience:
  • Professional pickleball player since March 2018
  • Co-founder of American Pickleball
  • Experienced in running tournaments, coaching, and hosting clinics
  • Foundational member of My Pickleball Coach

Sponsors: Vulcan

Dekel Bar

Josh Jenkins

Hometown: Ellicott City, MD

Education: Bachelor’s Degree from Towson University and Master’s Degree from George Mason University

Josh Jenkins is the Head of Education at RacketPro (RPO), with a passion for pickleball and coaching. With 8 years of experience in pickleball, Josh began playing professionally in 2019, becoming a quarterfinalist on both the PPA Tour and APP Tour. In college, Josh was a Division 1 golfer.

Josh’s enthusiasm for pickleball is evident in his dedication to teaching and his commitment to making the sport accessible and enjoyable for all. Whether on the court or off, Josh brings a wealth of experience and a fun, strategic approach to the game.

Coaching and Experience:
  • Over 4,000 hours of coaching experience
  • Certified by RacketPro (RPO)
  • Specializes in teaching doubles strategy, serves, and making pickleball fun!

Sponsors: Joola, Penetrex, UltraSlide

Favorite Getaway: Costa Rica

Dekel Bar

Joey Farias

Hometown: Port St. Lucie, FL

Joey Farias grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he honed his tennis skills to an elite level, earning wins against top players like Juan Martin Del Potro and John Isner. These tennis achievements paved the way for Joey to become one of the pioneering professionals in pickleball. Widely recognized as one of the sport’s original top pros, Joey has claimed titles such as gold in men’s doubles at the Las Vegas Open and the PPA Florida Open.

Joey’s years of high-level tennis coaching have seamlessly transitioned into his pickleball career, where his strategic insights (and his backhand groundstroke) continue to impress. If you’re lucky enough to catch him on a Pickleball Getaway, be sure to ask about his tennis days—his stories are as impressive as his game!

Coaching and Experience:
  • 10+ years of pickleball experience
  • One of Pickleball Getaways’ lead instructors for the past few years
  • Director of Sports at Riverland
  • Specializes in translating tennis skills to pickleball, making him an ideal coach for tennis converts!

Sponsors: Gearbox Pickleball

Dekel Bar

Dekel Bar

Hometown: Austin, TX

Education: Economics and Entrepreneurship, IDC Herzliya

Dekel is a former professional tennis player, achieving a top ranking of 580 in men’s singles. He caught on to pickleball around the same time he retired from tennis, and within months he became one of the top players; today, he is ranked among the top 6 pickleball players in the world. Besides playing professionally on both the PPA and MLP circuits, Dekel is also an entrepreneur; he is co-owner of both Pickleball Getaways and Pickleball 360, alongside business partner Ben Johns.

Dekel is originally from Raanana, Israel, and has traveled the world extensively due to his love of exploration, his career as a pro tennis player, and his experiences with his family’s travel company. With this background, he plays a major role in selecting the locations for Pickleball Getaways, where he enjoys introducing players to new skills and exciting destinations.

Coaching and Experience:

  • IFP Certified
  • Co-owner and content creator of Pickleball 360
  • Gold medalist on the PPA and APP tours
  • Specializes in teaching kitchen attacks, court positioning, serves, and Ernes

Sponsors: 11six24 and Pickleball Central

Favorite Getaway: Costa Rica and Slovenia

Ben Johns

Ben Johns

Hometown: Austin, TX

Ben started playing pickleball at the age of 17 and has since risen high in the sport’s ranks. Now at just 25 years old, he is regarded by many as the best pickleball player in the history of pickleball. With countless medals to his name and a shocking number of triple crowns, Ben drives the sport to higher levels and works tirelessly to promote it to the world. Ben joined Team Joola in the spring of 2022 and plays with his own signature paddle, the Joola Perseus 16mm (which he helped develop).

Ben grew up in Laytonsville, MD, and he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in Materials Science & Engineering in May 2022. Now residing in Austin, Texas, he works around the clock to train, compete, run his businesses—Pickleball Getaways and Pickleball 360—and pursue various interests such as reading, playing other racquet sports recreationally, and investing in cryptocurrency.

Pickleball Getaways is the only place you can find Ben teaching clinics regularly! His intuition about pickleball makes him one of the most knowledgeable players to learn from, and his charismatic personality and creative drills makes him one of the most fun players to learn from.

Sponsors: Joola

Collin Johns

Hometown: Austin, TX

Often referred to as the best right-side player in the sport of pickleball, Collin is a master strategist and dedicated professional. He plays on the PPA Tour alongside younger brother Ben Johns, and together they have maintained the top spot in men's doubles for the past few years. Collin attributes his success to his background in tennis, table tennis, baseball, and instruction from Ben. Having played on the pro tennis tour for almost a decade, Collin is an experienced competitor and was able to quickly transfer his racquet sports skills to pickleball.

Collin’s strategic insights and competitive accolades have made him a prominent figure in the pickleball community. His role in various educational platforms highlights his commitment to the sport’s growth, and he is well-known for his flawless “textbook” technique and clear instructional style.

Coaching and Experience:

  • Former professional tennis player
  • Co-owner and content creator of Pickleball 360
  • Lead Certifying Coach for RacketPro (RPO)
  • Board Member at the Professional Pickleball Registry
  • Foundational member of My Pickleball Coach
  • Global Brand Ambassador for Dill Dinkers Pickleball

Sponsors: Joola