Private Lessons & Coaches in West Orange, NJ

Michele's journey into pickleball began in 2017, driven by her preparation for the US Transplant Games the following year. Instantly enamored with the sport, she delved deep, earning both PPR Coach and IFP Instructor certifications in 2019 followed by RPO certification in 2025. As a dedicated Youth Pickleball Provider (YPP) with USA Pickleball, Michele's joy lies in coaching enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, fostering a love for pickleball within her community.

"Michelle was personable, patient, understanding and met me at the level I was at. She’s great at explaining and gave positive feedback which motivated me to keep going. It gave me confidence and helped me perform. I ran pretty late and she still gave me the same attention and helped me max out the most of the time we did have together. I highly recommend.

Ever felt that spark of excitement stepping onto the court? As a former college player with 13 years of coaching experience, I help aspiring players of all ages and skill levels discover their passion for tennis. From refining technique to mastering strategy, I provide personalized guidance to unlock your full potential and ignite your game.

"Really good coach, have a really good understanding both on tennis and physiology and explain the details really well easy to understand and bring me from a beginner to a 3.5 tournament level!!!

Passionate Pickleball player and coach. PPR certified and experienced in pickleball and soccer coaching instruction at league level. Specializing in coaching players of all ages and levels. Motivated by the gratitude of students and parents. Let's refine your game together!

"Will was very patient and a great instructor.

I'm Igor, a former tennis player hailing from Uzbekistan. Over the years, I've competed in countless tournaments, refining my skills through decades of dedicated practice. Now, with 30 years of experience under my belt, I've transitioned into teaching tennis, sharing my expertise and love for the game with aspiring players of all ages.

"very good coach, lets you get into rhythm. Very good at teaching proper form, and understanding clients progression/ability

Learn Golf the right way ! GRIP FOOTWORK SWING RULES PUTTING CHIPPING COMPETING POSTURE BALANCE USGTF Professional Cranbury and Plainsboro Areas… Driven by a lifelong passion, I've dedicated 20 years to refining golfers' skills, from beginners to aspiring pros. My experience as a mini-tour competitor informs my tailored, engaging approach to instruction. Let's elevate your game!

Near two decades playing. D3 collegiate player. I love the sport and can't wait to share my experience with you!

"Chris was very helpful, fun, professional and my son loved the lessons taking with him. My son improved being first

From collegiate courses to the greenest fairways, I've dedicated the last 30 years of my life to mastering the art of golf. As a former D1 athlete, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game to every lesson. Let's work together to elevate your game and unlock your true potential on the course!

"I’ve found David’s lessons very helpful, mainly because of his ability to quickly provide tips that actually made a difference right away. His focus on actionable advice and recommended drills for at-home and outside-the-lesson encourages me to keep practicing outside the lesson and allows me to grow on my own. Amazing overall and definitely worth booking if you're aiming to refine your golf with someone who is truly effective.

With over 20 years of experience as both a player and coach, I specialize in developing young athletes through focused training in ball handling, conditioning, and overall basketball IQ. I work with players ranging from ages 6 through high school, helping them build a strong foundation, sharpen their skills, and grow their confidence on and off the court. I played college basketball at Durham College and have further developed my training expertise through hands-on experience with Delson Training in New Jersey—one of the top programs for elite player development. My approach is simple: I love the game and I love helping kids get better. I’m easygoing, positive, and passionate—but I also push players to work hard, stay disciplined, and maximize their potential. Whether your child is just starting out or aiming for the next level, my goal is to guide them through that journey—step by step—with energy, focus, and fun.

"As a parent with 4 boys who are all passionate about basketball, I highly recommend giving Coach Marcus a chance. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. My youngest, who is 9 years old, enjoys working out with his brothers. Coach Marcus has a special talent for getting all the siblings to pay attention and learn. It's truly impressive how he can make them all listen and get along. I suggest trying him out before considering any other trainers.

My name is Joshua Watkins, and basketball has been a central part of my life since I was four years old. Throughout my journey, I’ve been blessed to grow from a passionate young player to a coach and mentor, helping others reach their potential both on and off the court. I’ve faced my share of challenges along the way, including managing asthma while pursuing my athletic goals. One of my proudest moments was receiving the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Award, which honors athletes who overcome significant obstacles. This recognition serves as a reminder of my determination and resilience. I had the honor of playing basketball at Howard College, where my efforts led to being named Texas Player of the Year. It was a pivotal experience in my career, allowing me to grow as both a player and a person. While there, I earned an Associate of Science in Sociology, a field that deepened my understanding of team dynamics and how to foster strong connections with the people I coach. For eight years, I worked with the BSNY basketball teams and coaching staff, where I found my calling as a mentor. I also had the opportunity to serve as a camp counselor at the University of Utah, guiding young athletes in their development. My passion for coaching grew further when I transitioned to leading the junior varsity team at the Dwight School, where I helped shape and inspire the next generation of players. I am committed to my craft and pride myself on being a reliable and flexible professional. I have my own transportation, which allows me to be available whenever needed, and I’m always ready to support my players and teams. Basketball is more than just a game to me—it’s a way to teach life lessons, build character, and help others achieve greatness. As I continue this journey, I look forward to making an impact wherever I go.

Dr. Carl A. Walden – Coaching Biography Dr. Carl A. Walden is a respected basketball coach, player development expert, and community leader with over 15 years of coaching and mentoring experience, working with athletes from youth programs to the professional level. Known for his passion, structure, and deep understanding of the game, Dr. Walden has built a career rooted in servant leadership, athlete empowerment, and social impact. Dr. Walden’s basketball journey began at the historic St. Anthony High School in Jersey City, NJ, where he served as a team manager under the legendary Hall of Fame Coach Bob Hurley Sr. During his time at St. Anthony, Dr. Walden studied the game closely from one of the greatest minds in basketball history, developing a sharp eye for detail, discipline, and what it takes to build winning programs. He went on to apply those lessons throughout a coaching career spanning more than a decade, during which he has mentored, trained, and developed hundreds of athletes, helping many earn college scholarships or sign professional contracts overseas. Dr. Walden is the Co-Founder of Next Level Select Equal Opportunity Alliance Inc., a nonprofit organization that uses sports, education, and housing initiatives to transform the lives of underserved youth. He is also the Co-Owner of BC Aragats, a professional team in the Armenia Pro League, where he’s helping pioneer a movement to grow the game internationally while opening new doors for American and Armenian athletes alike. His mission is multifaceted: Lead the "Armenia Loves Basketball" campaign, which combines youth outreach, pro team branding, and cultural impact. Establish a sports academy and trade school in Newark, NJ and Armenia focused on degrees in sports management, real estate, broadcasting, barbering, and more. Launch a player-owned team model inspired by the Green Bay Packers, rooted in community investment and long-term sustainability. Provide affordable housing, education, and job training for youth and families in need. Dr. Walden also serves as a Player Development Coach, helping athletes sharpen their fundamentals, raise their basketball IQ, and prepare for life beyond the game. He holds a doctoral degree, graduated with a 4.0 GPA, and is the creative force behind the upcoming documentary The Dynamic Duo of Basketball, chronicling Ed and Jordan Hudson’s historic journey as the first father-son duo to play professional basketball together. From managing at St. Anthony to owning a pro team overseas, Dr. Carl A. Walden’s journey is a testament to vision, resilience, and a calling to uplift others through the game he loves.