Located in Tacoma, Washington, The Drop Pickleball Club has quickly found success in helping their members become well trained. The new establishment knew from the very beginning that it was imperative to bring on experienced coaches to kickstart their program. Kristen Sexton from The Drop, says, “we started putting thought into our coaches very early on in our process. We were fortunate enough to have a legend of the game in our area.” Brian Ashworth, a pickleball pro with a decade of playing and teaching experience, was approached early on by Sexton and her staff. “…[Brian] got to watch us struggle to actually bring our club to life, and he was ready to roll on day one.” Since then, The Drop Pickleball Club has taken on one other coach, Jim Bouchard, who came to them as well.
The primary reason for selecting these two coaches was not only their extensive experience but also their ability to bring that experience to teach others. Sexton had experienced their coaching first hand and knew they would be great assets to the team. Something she really appreciates is that the two coaches “bring totally different styles and personalities to their teaching..” This allows their members to have some options on which method of instruction suits them best. Sexton also stated that she values their genuine love for the game and their excitement to share it.
The Drop Pickleball offers a variety of memberships that are designed to suit two different levels of commitment – players who want to play several times a week (called “The Drive”) versus those who are only able to play a few times a month (called “The Dink”). Having more than one membership option has given members at The Drop the ability to choose how involved they want to be at the club. While there are more members that initially sign up for “The Dink” because of its cheaper price point, many quickly upgrade to “The Drive” which allows for more open play, advanced booking, and perks that are exclusive that membership option . Additionally, a variety of instruction series and mini-clinics are offered weekly to help members get some one-on-one and group time with their instructors. Players also get the opportunity to participate in more intensive clinics every few months.
For new clubs looking to improve their coaching staff, Sexton advises to have a strong sense of where you are and what’s in demand. She says, “as for most things in life, I’d say it’s important to trust your gut. I would also make sure you’re tapped into the local pickleball scene to make sure you are aware of who is around and what kind of reputation they have.” Knowing that Brian Ashworth not only had years of experience playing at a very high level, but was also local, meant that he was a perfect candidate to coach. From the beginning, The Drop Pickleball Club knew that running a successful business started with quality coaches. They chose instructors that play well, share their knowledge, and love the game.
