Pickleball Coaching

Carol Graham, with over 35 years of coaching experience, is a passionate educator and athletic director. Specializing in middle to high school athletics, she holds degrees in Athletics and Sport Conditioning, and Education from the University of Alberta. A proficient coach in volleyball and pickleball, Carol excels in nurturing physical literacy and instilling a love for sports in individuals of all ages, leveraging her diverse athletic background and educational expertise.

Joel started playing pickleball 5 years ago and has been determined ever since to learn everything he can about the sport by breaking down skills and movements. In 2023 Joel was drafted as a 5.0+ player into the Canadian National Pickleball League where his team achieved 2nd overall. Joel is driven to learn as much as he can about the sport and hopes to be able to share what he has learned with the members of the Red Deer Pickleball Club.

Rich Thul, a dedicated coach with a rich background in hockey, baseball, and pickleball, brings his passion for sports to the forefront. With qualifications in multiple sports including NCCP Level 2 in Hockey, Lacrosse, Baseball, and IPTPA Level 2 in Pickleball, he excels in player development. Rich's goal is to enhance pickleball skills among all ages, fostering a love for the sport through his positive and encouraging approach.

Robyn Froese, a Level 1 NCCP certified pickleball coach, has a rich sporting background, including volleyball, basketball, and more. Starting pickleball in 2013, she transitioned from recreational to competitive play, especially during COVID. With degrees in business and education, she combines her coaching skills in volleyball and pickleball, passionately teaching and inspiring youth in her community. Her approach emphasizes pickleball's accessibility and social benefits for all ages and abilities.

Patrick is a passionate pickleball player, coach, and advocate for pickleball. Since picking up a paddle in 2017, he’s been all in: volunteering with the Red Deer Pickleball Club as a director, announcer, and Level 2 certified referee, and even earning a silver medal at the 2021 Canadian Nationals. In 2022, he began teaching beginner lessons at the YMCA and now coaches RDPC members as well. As an NCCP Level 1 and 2 certified coach, Patrick brings experience, energy, and a love for the game to every session. Whether you’re new or leveling up, he’s ready to help you thrive.

Keith has always had a passion for sports, playing everything from football to badminton. Five years ago, he discovered pickleball and instantly knew he had found something special. Since then, he has earned medals at the club, provincial, and national levels. As a certified NCCP Level 2 Pickleball Instructor and a Selkirk Advocate, Keith combines his years of coaching experience with a love for helping players of all ages and skill levels grow their game. Keep those paddles up!

Rob is a lifelong Red Deer resident, passionate sports enthusiast, and dedicated community volunteer. Competing at the 4.0 level in men’s doubles, mixed doubles, and full-court singles, Rob brings both experience and energy to the court. His Learn-to-Play sessions are the perfect starting point for new players—covering everything from serves and returns to drops, dinks, and court positioning. Rob’s mission is to make the game approachable and fun for everyone. Fair warning: pickleball is highly addictive—are you ready to fall in love with the game?