If you cannot get enough of pickleball, you may be thinking of taking the next step: becoming a pickleball coach. But what is the process to become a certified pickleball coach? Is there a difference between a certified or non-certified pickleball coach? And how good do I actually have to be at pickleball to become a coach?
What is a certified pickleball coach?
A certified pickleball coach is someone who has gone through a training process, and also passed a series of evaluations. This should be through a reputable company like Pickleball Coaching International (PCI).
What level of pickleball player should I be to begin the coaching process?
It depends who you expect to work with. If you will primarily be teaching beginners, a high skill level is not necessary. PCI has a skill rating evaluation that participants must successfully pass to earn certification. This can typically be done if you are at the 3.5 level. For our level 2 program, the skill level requirement is higher.
What is the process to become certified?
The first step is to go to PCIPickleball.com. From there, you can enroll in our certification program. PCI’s program is offered online so you will instantly be emailed all the required materials. You will then go through the training at your own pace on your own schedule. It takes about eight hours. When you are ready, you will complete three on-court evaluations where they will record video of you working with real players to show you can meet the PCI standards.
What do I get when I graduate?
When you have demonstrated that you can meet the PCI standards, you will earn a PCI Level 1 instructor certification. You will be provided with a certificate, as well as a detailed assessment of your evaluations that outline both your strengths and areas to improve.
What is the difference between a certified pickleball coach and non-certified pickleball coach?
In addition to our instructor certification program, PCI offers several non-certification pathways. We have a free intro instructor course where people can learn how to work with beginners in a way that is safe, fun, and effective. PCI also offers resources that members can access and benefit from — even if you will not be attempting to earn certification.
How much can I make as a certified pickleball coach? What are the other benefits?
As pickleball grows, so does the need for good coaches. In cities and countries around the world, pickleball instructors are in high demand.
The range of pay varies from place to place, but instructors in pickleball are now regularly earning the same amount that certified professionals in other racket sports earn. For instructors in the United States, our certification program includes liability insurance as well as great deals on Selkirk gear.
No matter what kind of coaching someone is doing, Pickleball Coaching International has valuable tools and resources like lesson plans, audio files, dozens of videos, and more.
Learn more about becoming a certified pickleball coach at Pickleball Coaching International.