What happens when a pro athlete discovers the joy of helping everyday players master their game?
Hi, I’m Thomas Yelloweyes—a former pro Ultimate Frisbee player turned pickleball coach, and this is my story.
The Journey: From Pro Sports to Pickleball
I started playing sports simply because I was having fun. That love for the game took me to professional levels in Ultimate Frisbee, where competition, skill, and teamwork were everything.
But there was something missing. When I played competitively, I realized that too much pressure to win squeezed the joy out of the game. Coaches and top players focused so heavily on results that they overlooked the most important reason we play sports: to enjoy the process.
When I discovered pickleball, I found not just a game but a community. I saw everyday players, athletes, and even families coming together on the court, learning, growing, and having fun. And I knew I could bring my years of pro sports experience to help others master pickleball without losing the joy of play.
From Chaos to Coaching: A Lifechanger’s Story
My journey hasn’t been an easy one. Growing up in the foster care system, life was chaotic. Moving from home to home taught me resilience but also left me searching for purpose. Sports became my escape and my teacher, helping me channel my energy and find discipline.
Through those challenges, I learned that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about mindset and perseverance. Later, when I transitioned from Ultimate Frisbee to pickleball, I carried that lesson with me. I wasn’t just teaching players how to hit shots; I was helping them find confidence and strength, both on and off the court.
One of the defining moments in my life came during a difficult time when I was told, “You are destined for greatness.” Those words stuck with me, shaping how I approach life and coaching. Today, I see myself as more than a pickleball instructor—I’m a lifechanger, helping people unlock their potential and achieve their own greatness.
Why Pickleball? It’s More Than a Game
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world because it brings people together, regardless of age, skill level, or background. I’ve seen families bond, beginners find confidence, and athletes sharpen their competitive edge—all on the same court.
The beauty of pickleball lies in its accessibility and the fact that there’s always room to improve. Whether you’re looking to:
- Master your serve,
- Dominate at the kitchen line, or
- Learn advanced strategies to win rallies,
I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Looking to take your game to the next level? Our Precision Pickleball Training sessions are designed to help players of all levels master their skills while having fun.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re curious about my coaching philosophy and journey, I invite you to explore my recent podcast interview on the Kitchen Talk Pickleball Edition Podcast.
And if you missed our popular 5 Stages of Pickleball blog series, I highly recommend checking it out to learn foundational skills that will elevate your game.
What’s Next? In the second part of my story, I’ll reveal how Night Train Pickleball came to life, the unique coaching philosophy that sets us apart, and the strategies that have transformed players at every level. Don’t miss the exciting details about how we take Pickleball beyond the court and into a life-changing experience. Stay tuned!
