Berkshire Pickleball Coaches

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Welcome to our page of qualified Pickleball Coaches in the Berkshire area. Whether you are new to the game or looking to improve your skill, you can rest assured that all coaches listed here are covered by the PickleballENGLAND guarantee.

This means they have all:

  • Passed Workshop Assessment
  • Passed the Rules & Workbook Exam
  • Passed the written reflections assignment
  • Enhanced DBS
  • Passed Safeguarding in Sport Training
  • Passed First Aid Training

Level 1 Coaches

Jax Sleigh - Berkshire / North East Hampshire / West Surrey Borders
Level 1 Qualified

I have just moved to North East Hampshire/Berkshire/ West Surrey borders. I am an enthusiastic qualified PE teacher for over 34 years, who in the past has been a successful hockey and netball coach for Juniors. 

I got bitten by the Pickleball bug just before COVID and decided that it was a lot safer than playing competitive hockey, so decided to swap my hockey stick for my paddle. I loved it so much that I qualified as a IPTPA Level 1 coach in 2023 and also PBE level 1 coach in 2025.

My aim is to introduce pickleball to all and spread the enjoyment through the local community with fun drills and games. I set up and ran Christchurch Dinkers club in Dorset in 2023 and The Pink Ladies sessions as part of Dorset Pickleball Club. I also run sessions for Junior schools, church groups and the U3a.

My sessions are engaging and all inclusive irrespective of age, skill level and ability. Whether you are a beginner or a regular player, I use my wealth of teaching experience to provide tailored sessions for you or your club. I particularly enjoy working with schools and beginners.

Safeguarding trained, Enhanced DBS, Sports First Aid Certificated.

David Thompson - Berkshire (Ascot, Bracknell & Wokingham)
Level 1 Qualified

A social and competitive Pickleball player & coach, primarily focused on helping beginners & youth players (14-17) develop skills & confidence on the court. David also assists early intermediate players looking to refine technique & strategy.
With a background as a football player, coach, referee & talent ID scout he has a strong foundation in sports & player development.
Safeguarding trained, Enhanced DBS, & Sports First Aid Certified, ensuring a safe, fun & positive coaching environment.
Based in Ascot, Bracknell, and Wokingham (Berkshire), he is also available to travel to
surrounding areas and neighbouring counties for coaching sessions. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your game, he’d love to help you develop your skills & enjoy Pickleball to the fullest!

Level 2 Coaches

Russell Trayling - Berkshire
Level 2 Qualified

As a fully qualified Pickleball England Level 2 Coach, I am dedicated to supporting players of all abilities in their journey to improve and enjoy the beautiful game of pickleball. My approach centres on encouraging, developing, and helping others to go beyond their perceived potential, always ensuring that fun remains at the heart of every session. I genuinely take pleasure in fostering growth and confidence in those I work with.

Coaching Philosophy and Methods

Through clear communication and by combining technical and tactical knowledge, I am able to assist with decision-making, court positioning, and overall strategy. My coaching is engaging and inclusive, designed for both beginners and intermediate players. I strive to create opportunities for you to explore your full potential, using a structured and supportive approach that goes beyond basic execution. With me, you will learn to play smarter rather than simply faster.

Professional Credentials

I am a professional, experienced, and passionate pickleball coach serving Berkshire and the surrounding counties. My qualifications include Enhanced DBS clearance, as well as Level 3 accreditation in First Aid and Safeguarding, ensuring a safe and secure coaching environment for all participants.

Community Involvement

My enthusiasm for pickleball extends to organising weekly club sessions across Berkshire and leading after-school groups. In addition, I am a Coach Educator, delivering Pickleball England courses to those pursuing the educational pathway in the sport.

Coaching Services

Whether your aim is to improve your social pickleball skills or prepare for tournament play, I offer tailored coaching for players at all levels. Sessions are available on a one-to-one basis, as well as for teams or groups, ensuring that every player receives the support and guidance they need to succeed.

Thank you in anticipation.

IPTPA

Pickleball England also recognise the INTERNATIONAL PICKLEBALL TEACHING PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION (IPTPA) qualification.  As acknowledged in the Club Instructor workbook some of the concepts in our curriculum are based on IPTPA.

PickleballEngland provides the coaching insurance for IPTPA Coaches listed on the IPTPA website (click button below).  Since this is a dynamic list, we can’t list everyone on this page. We also don’t have visibility for which coaches have all the above evidence.

Other Qualifications

If you have another pickleball qualification (including IPTPA) and want to be listed on this page, we do require that you meet the guarantee on the top of the page.  We have a low cost conversion option to be recognised by PbE.  Email coaching@pickleballengland.org for more information.