Our Instructors
Meet our team of experienced instructors that are qualified to provide you with professional Pickleball instruction. Whether you are just discovering the sport of Pickleball, or are a seasoned player our instructors have you covered. Each instructor provides private or group lessons. They may also be found in our multiple level classes. All instruction is conducted at Pioneer Park courts at 1195 Commerce Drive, Prescott, AZ.
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.
My name is P.J. Janik. Similar to the other instructors, my first rule to a better understanding of the game of Pickleball is to remember, “it’s just Pickleball.” 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 identify the rules, techniques,
and tactics of Pickleball.
Recently I became a Certified Players Skill Evaluator through my
coaching credentialing organization. So, if you curious to see how you measure up or for placement in a PPA Round Robin or League, this might be for you. The Play Skills Evaluation
utilizes a standardized objective skills evaluation process that is sanctioned through our PPA.
I am a native of Arizona having played competitive tennis from high school into college, later playing for Phoenix College. After graduating from Phoenix College, I transferred and graduated at ASU. My prior career life in law enforcement gave me the opportunity to become a general
instructor and later a certified physical fitness instructor. As a result, I know how to relate (listen) and teach to my players by adapting to their way of learning without getting them
injured! 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. Recently in recognition of our PPA Player Survey, I took the
initiative to became Certified Player Skills Evaluator. I am one of two Coaches within our PPA
who can do this. In addition, I am one of four instructors who is authorized by the City of Prescott to teach/coach Pickleball at Pioneer Park.
So, if you want to have fun while learning this great game of Pickleball or obtain an evaluation of your playing skills, let’s do this!
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.
