Pickleball Instructor

The Pickleball Instructor is responsible for leading engaging, positive, and skill-focused pickleball lessons, clinics, and programs that promote sportsmanship, confidence, physical activity, and lifelong participation in the sport. Instructors create a safe and supportive environment where participants develop pickleball fundamentals, strategy, coordination, and game play skills. This role combines technical instruction with encouragement and mentorship to help participants of all ages and abilities achieve their goals while fostering a welcoming and inclusive YMCA experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

•  Demonstrate the Y core values of respect, responsibility, honesty, and caring while ensuring participant safety is always the top priority.
• Lead organized pickleball lessons, clinics, leagues, and instructional programs using YMCA curriculum and lesson plans that emphasize skill development, sportsmanship, and fun.
• Teach and demonstrate foundational and progressive pickleball skills including:
  • Proper grip, paddle control, and ball handling
  • Serving, returning, dinking, volleys, and groundstrokes
  • Court positioning and movement
  • Doubles strategy and communication
  • Rules of the game, scoring, and sportsmanship
  • Game strategy and match play techniques
• Provide instruction and coaching during lessons, drills, clinics, and organized play.
• Create a positive learning environment that promotes confidence, effort, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
• Provide constructive feedback and encouragement to participants of varying ages and skill levels.
• Ensure proper use of equipment and maintain a safe playing environment.
• Maintain accurate attendance and required documentation, including incident reports when necessary.
• Communicate consistently and professionally with participants regarding progress, expectations, schedules, and program information.
• Attend staff meetings and required trainings.
• Build strong relationships with participants and families to promote connection to the YMCA community and support program retention.
• Assist with pickleball events, leagues, tournaments, and special programs as assigned.
• Follow all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and emergency procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.