How do you turn passion into purpose?
In Part 1, I shared my journey from pro Ultimate Frisbee player to pickleball coach and the life lessons that shaped my coaching philosophy. Today, I’m excited to dive into how Night Train Pickleball came to life and how we’re helping players take their game—and confidence—to the next level.
The Start of Night Train Pickleball
After moving to Oregon, I found myself on a mission to build a community of players who wanted to drill, practice, and improve their skills. What started as a casual invitation to friends quickly grew into group sessions, and before I knew it, players were showing up week after week—asking for more.
I realized this wasn’t just about teaching a sport; it was about building something bigger. I wanted to create a program that taught players how to master pickleball fundamentals while keeping the game fun and engaging. That’s when Night Train Pickleball was born.
The name? It came from my father-in-law, who once told me, “You play like the Night Train of pickleball,” comparing me to the unstoppable football legend Dick “Night Train” Lane. It stuck—and so did the mission to inspire players to be unstoppable on and off the court.
A Unique Approach: Coaching for Skill and Confidence
Pickleball is more than just volleys and serves—it’s a mental game as much as a physical one. At Night Train Pickleball, we emphasize:
- Mindset Training – Helping players overcome self-doubt and step onto the court with confidence.
- Precision Training – Focusing on drills and techniques that build muscle memory and strategic play. (Learn more about Precision Pickleball Training)
- Fun and Community – Keeping sessions light, engaging, and enjoyable, so players can grow without losing the joy of the game.
We’ve all been there—doubting our ability to master a tricky shot or getting frustrated after a tough match. That’s why I focus not just on skill-building but on shifting mindsets and celebrating wins, no matter how small.
Changing Lives, One Shot at a Time
I’ve always believed that coaching is about more than just teaching skills. It’s about helping people discover their potential and pushing past their limits. I’ve seen players walk onto the court with zero confidence and leave with a newfound belief in themselves.
One player, who once said, “I can’t do this,” ended up mastering the third shot drop after a few focused sessions. Seeing her confidence soar reminded me why I started this journey—to give players the tools to win both on and off the court.
Pickleball as a Platform for Growth
Pickleball isn’t just a game; it’s a platform for growth, connection, and transformation. Whether you’re competing at a high level or playing socially, there’s always an opportunity to:
- Improve your fitness and coordination.
- Build friendships and community.
- Develop discipline and mental toughness.
That’s why Night Train Pickleball isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating an experience that brings out the best in each player.
Ready to Take Your Game to the Next Level?
If you’re ready to start your pickleball journey, I’d love to help. Check out our Precision Pickleball Training sessions for focused, skill-building workouts that are guaranteed to level up your game.
And if you haven’t yet, be sure to read Part 1 of this blog series to learn more about my story and coaching philosophy.
Stay Connected and Keep Learning
For even more insights into my approach, check out my interviews on the:
And don’t forget to explore the 5 Stages of Pickleball blog series for tips and drills that will keep your game sharp.
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks, we’ll be diving into more advanced strategies, including how to drill effectively using the four quadrants of the court. Stay tuned for actionable tips and insights to keep you winning!
