Let's Learn Pickleball!

Whether its a weekday clinic or a private lesson, find your way to improve .5 at a time!

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Meet the Pros Below

At PKL Park, we're proud to introduce our esteemed coaching staff, the backbone of our vibrant pickleball community. These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and expertise to the court, ensuring our players reach new heights in their game.

coach Tom Price

Tom Price – Director of Pickleball & PPR Level 2 Pro

A seasoned Professional Pickleball Registry Pro with a wealth of coaching experience, Tom understands the game's intricacies and knows what it takes to succeed. Tom’s coaching is centered around learning the game the right way as you progress from one level to the next.

Questions? Email:
coachtom@pklparkgvl.com

coach Ben Erkens

Ben Erkens – Assistant Director & PPR Level 1 Pro

After winning a national championship with the Clemson Tigers soccer team, Ben turned his competitive focus to pickleball, quickly becoming one of the Upstate's top players. With a champion’s mindset and a straightforward, intentional approach, Ben’s coaching is all about real progress.

Questions? Email:
ben.erkens@pklparkgvl.com

coach Yulia Krylova

Yulia Krylova – PPR Level 2 Pro

Yulia is a dedicated pickleball coach with a proven track record in competitive play and coaching players from beginner to advanced levels. Her supportive coaching style, hands-on approach, and strategic insights empower players to build solid fundamentals and elevate their confidence on the court.

Questions? Email:
coachyulia@pklparkgvl.com

coach Al Dockery

Al Dockery – Level 1 Coach

Al brings the perfect mix of athletic drive and strategic smarts to the court. A former college quarterback with a degree in Finance from Western Connecticut State, Al’s coaching style is all about growth, grit, and game IQ.

Questions? Email:
coachal@pklparkgvl.com

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Master the Essentials at PKL Park’s Pickleball Clinics!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, our weekday clinics at PKL Park offer the perfect way to elevate your game. Dive into the essential shots of pickleball with hands-on guidance from our expert instructors, who focus on one key shot each session.

  • What to Expect: Each week, our clinics rotate through essential shots, so there’s always something new to master! With our focus shifting daily, no two weeks are ever the same. Jump in anytime to experience a fresh skill-building focus and take your game to the next level.
  • Learn To Play Clinics: Just starting out? Join one of our Learn To Play Clinics, designed to introduce you to pickleball fundamentals and get you playing with confidence.

Why Choose PKL Park Clinics?

  • Expert Instruction: Learn proper techniques and tips that build lasting skills. Perfect practice makes progress!
  • Fun & Friendly Environment: Clinics are open to all levels, so bring a friend or meet new players!
  • Flexible Schedule: Mornings, evenings, or weekends—find a clinic that fits your routine.

The Basics

Learn the fundamental technique of the forehand and the backhand.

Learn the “Chess” game of Pickleball. We’ll cover the “how” and “when” to dink to certain targets.

Learn how to drop the ball to allow you and your partner approach the NVZ with a purpose.

Learn ways to serve with purpose to different areas of the court.

Learn how to return a serve with intention.

The Next Level

Learn how to take the pace off the ball to allow you and your partner to gain ground back.

Learn how to use a block to neutralize even the biggest drives.

Learn how to incorporate the lob into your game.

Learn the technical way to address the lob.

Learn the ability to end a point on an attackable ball.

Join a Clinic