Private Lessons & Coaches in Atherton, CA

Like you, I just love pickleball, and I love teaching and coaching others to improve dramatically by making simple, small adjustments. I have a Level II certification from the IPTPA and years of coaching experience here and in France, where I was the 2023 National Champion (50+). Let's play!

"I'm still getting the hang of pickleball, but Nic's lesson on improving my paddle control was quite helpful. I still feel like I could use more practice though, and maybe some focus on my serve.

Hi, I’m Nicole Yang, and I’ve been passionate about golf for over 10 years. My journey took me from picking up the game as a beginner to competing as an NCAA athlete, where I gained not only technical skills but also a deep understanding of the mental side of the sport. Now, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with others who are ready to start their own golf journey. My coaching focuses on building strong fundamentals, developing confidence, and making the game enjoyable from the very beginning. Whether you’ve never picked up a club before or you’re just looking for guidance on your swing and mindset, I’m here to help. Golf can be intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be! I’d love to help you get started.

"Had an amazing golf lesson today! Nicole was super helpful and great at breaking down my swing errors. She uses awesome mental visuals that actually make sense to a beginner. Clear instructions, great drills, and even provided the balls. 10/10 experience!

Elevate your tennis game with my 16 years of playing experience. As a former collegiate athlete, I bring unique insights to help you reach your full potential on the court. My passion lies in fostering a fun and challenging learning environment for players of all levels.

"Darian is patient, helpful, and kind even when I feel uncoordinated and clumsy. He’s strengthened my technique with precision. He’s quite particular about the technique, but it works. One thing I need to work on now is my own stamina, and then i’ll be a noticeably stronger tennis player than I was before I started meeting with Darian.

Mary's coaching style is encouraging, friendly, and at times, challenging, designed to bring out the best in her players' performance. An athletic individual, she played multiple sports in high school, including tennis, volleyball, and basketball, which has given her a well-rounded understanding of sports and fitness. Last summer, Mary coached beginners to intermediate-level players for Lifetime Activities in Walnut Creek, CA, where she helped athletes build skills and confidence. With a current DUPR skill level of 3.75-4.0, she brings both experience and passion to her coaching, motivating players to push their limits and achieve their personal best.

"Able to play a pick up game with other players cycling through and learned live tips

**Jianrong** is a dedicated tennis coach with a wealth of coaching experience and a deep love for the game, committed to helping players reach their full potential. With an in-depth knowledge of tennis techniques, tactics, and training methods, Jianrong excels in using video analysis tools to enhance player performance and is skilled at motivating players to maintain enthusiasm and confidence. His coaching career includes a long tenure at NanShan Tennis Club, where he served as Assistant Tennis Coach from 2010 to 2012, and later as Head Tennis Coach from 2012 to 2024, designing personalized training programs for players of all skill levels and organizing regular practice matches with detailed post-match analysis. Jianrong also has competitive experience, having participated in various local and regional tennis tournaments throughout his playing career.

"Ground strokes

Ready to experience the thrill of pickleball? I'm a former college tennis player and meditation instructor with years of experience coaching players of all levels. Let's unlock your potential on the court together!

"Just getting a feel of paddle and ball, serving techniques, and volleys

Joby Ross is a PGA of America Class "A" member and has been a golf instructor for 25 years. He has worked and taught at Burlingame Country Club and Peninsula Golf and Country Club. Joby has been a golf instructor at Mariners Point since 1996. Joby was in charge of the Jim McLean Golf Academy at Mariners Point (Mariners Point Golf Academy) where he worked and trained under Jim McLean. Joby earned Jim McLean Master Instructor status. He has been voted a top 50 instructor in California by Golf Digest, and was also nominated for Teacher of the Year in the Northern California PGA section. Joby's teaching style is consistent with the Jim McLean system, following systematic guidelines and parameters for swing improvement. He believes every golfer is different and his instruction will always fit the student?s needs and goals. Video is included in all lessons. Joby has worked with all skill levels from the novice golfer to the tour professional and has had great success.

""I have known Joby Ross for over 35 years and have watched him develop into one of the finest Northern California PGA Golf Instructors. I have seen the best in my 41 years in the business and would put Joby in that elite group."

With 35 years on the green, I tailor golf instruction to each student's unique potential. My expertise fosters skill growth with personalized guidance and proven techniques, ensuring an engaging and effective learning journey. I am passionate about seeing my students thrive and enjoy the sport! As a PGA Professional I have worked with players of all ages and skill levels. Throughout my career, I have worked with youths, from as young as 6-18 years of age to adults both men and women as well as seniors from The PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), serving veterans and active -duty service members, including those with physical challenges. I currently utilizing the locations Crystal Springs Golf Course, Mariners Pointe Golf & Practice Center and My Swing Studio, GolfersBZ. Using during ranges along with indoor AI simulators. Have thought over 10,000 students over the past 35 years.

"I had the pleasure of working with Eric Guzman through PGA HOPE. I can honestly say he is an outstanding golf instructor. He brings a rare combination of patience, clarity, and thoughtfulness to every lesson. No matter my skill level or frustration, Eric explains things in a way that is easy to understand and always takes the time to make sure I truly grasp each concept. His skill and knowledge of the game are evident, but what really sets him apart is his consistency—every lesson feels structured, focused, and productive. I always leave with a clear plan, useful feedback, and confidence in my progress. If you’re looking for an instructor who not only knows the game inside and out but also genuinely cares about your improvement, I highly recommend Eric Guzman.

My name is Blake Hathcoat. I have played golf for 20 years, and played Division 1 golf at Saint Mary’s College. After school, I turned professional and played on many tours including PGA Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, and PGA Tour Canada. I have been coaching for over 5 years, with students from juniors to professionals. My philosophy is centered on tailoring instruction to each student’s swing and strengths. Let’s get to work!

"Blake has really helped me with my driver, which I was struggling with. He also really helped with my short game a putting. We went on the course, which was a big help because he could show me where my strategy was lacking.

Lucas is a dedicated tennis and pickleball coach with a USTA rating of 5.0. With years of experience working with players of all levels, he's committed to helping you reach your full potential. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, Lucas can tailor his coaching to your specific needs. From stroke mechanics to match strategy, he covers all aspects of the game.

"Coach Lucas explained the tennis fundamentals in a very clear and easy-to-understand way, and helped me really internalize them through continuous practice. It was fun and I really enjoyed it.