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Start Playing Pickleball in Durham Today

From dedicated courts at Piney Wood to indoor play at Bethesda, join Durham’s fastest-growing sport community.

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Coach Spotlight • Durham, NC

Train with Durham’s Elite Pickleball Coach

Private coaching tailored to your goals — technique, strategy, and real match confidence.

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#1 Ranked Coach
Rachael James
PPR Certified Pro • Current Pickleball Pro


High-level coaching with simple, repeatable cues. We’ll sharpen your mechanics, improve decision-making, and build patterns you can trust under pressure.

Hi, I’m Rachael! I’m the highest professionally ranked coach in the Triangle. I was previously ranked in the top 20 on the pro tour and I’m still competing on the pro tour. I’ve served as the Pickleball Director at Pickles and Play and at Peak Sports in Apex, and now I’m focused on growing my own business. I’m looking forward to working with you and I’m excited to meet you!

Once you book with me: 

1: You will receive an email asking your questions about your pickleball journey. 
2: I will reserve the courts through the city. If I am unable to secure courts at Forest Hills Park for your desired time, I will text or email you. We will then discuss having the lesson at a different time or location.
See you on the courts soon!

5.4+ DUPR
Technique + Strategy
All levels welcome
Location
Durham • Forest Hills
Session length
60 minutes
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Book Pickleball Coaching in Durham

Choose your preferred session type below and reserve instantly.

Private Coaching Sessions
1-on-1 training focused on technical and strategic development.
Group / Alternate Booking
Clinics, specialty sessions, or alternate scheduling options.
Last-minute bookings • Questions welcome

Need a last-minute session or have a question?

If you want to book coaching today or tomorrow, can’t find the right option, or just have questions, send me a message here — I’ll get back to you quickly.

America’s Fastest Growing Sport

Why Pickleball?

Discover why millions are falling in love with pickleball – a sport that combines fitness, fun, and friendship in a uniquely addictive way.

Health & Wellness

Pickleball offers a perfect blend of cardio and strength training. A typical hour of play burns 600+ calories while being gentle on joints. It improves balance, agility, and hand-eye coordination – perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

600+ Calories/Hour Low Impact

Community & Connection

More than just a sport, pickleball creates instant communities. The social nature of the game, combined with its inclusive spirit, fosters friendships across generations. Our Durham community has grown from 50 to 2,500+ players in just three years.

2,500+ Players All Ages

Competitive Spirit

From casual play to professional tournaments, pickleball offers multiple competitive levels. The sport’s strategic depth rivals tennis, while being easier to learn. Our local tournaments attract players from beginners to nationally ranked competitors.

12 Tournaments/Year All Skill Levels

“Pickleball isn’t just a sport – it’s a lifestyle that brings together fitness, friendship, and fun in a way that no other activity can match.”

Rachael James, Coach and Pro Player