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Apply/Register
- New members should complete the application and register for a workshop.
- Existing RSPA members can add a sport by registering for a workshop.
Pickleball isn’t just growing — it’s exploding. And so is the demand for certified, highly skilled coaches who can help players of all levels enjoy the game, improve their skills, and compete with confidence.
The Racquet Sports Professionals Association is leading the way, offering a next-level certification pathway designed to meet the needs of this dynamic sport. Our certification blends decades of racquet sports education expertise with the assistance of pickleball experts and teaching professionals, giving you the tools, techniques, and credentials to succeed.
Through our strong partnerships with USA Pickleball and MyDUPRCoach, RSPA members gain access to valuable resources, insights, and connections—positioning you at the center of the sport’s future.
The RSPA is proud to partner with USA Pickleball, the national governing body for pickleball in the United States. Their accreditation marks our pickleball certification as being the gold-standard. Together, we’re building a stronger, smarter, and more connected pickleball community.
Andrei Daescu, RSPA’s Lead Curriculum Developer and architect of its pickleball curriculum, collaborates with subject-matter experts to ensure the program remains current, comprehensive, and reflects best coaching practices and play. An RSPA Certified Elite Pro and professional pickleball player for the Arizona Drive of Major League Pickleball (MLP), Andrei brings unmatched experience to the development process. A former No. 1 player in the world on the APP Tour in both men’s and mixed doubles, he has earned numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2023, he won the US Open men’s doubles championship, was named APP Player of the Year, and captured the Major League Pickleball championship with the Orlando Squeeze. His previous accomplishments include four APP gold medals in 2022, a bronze medal in men’s doubles at the 2021 World Championships, and another bronze at the 2019 Nationals.
RSPA’s pickleball certification equips you with the knowledge, skills, and credibility to teach the fastest-growing sport in America. This single certification process determines your final certification level based on your on-court teaching and playing assessments, ensuring your designation accurately reflects your expertise.
RSPA pickleball workshops are offered nationwide through all 17 RSPA divisions and internationally.
This certification is ideal for:
The path to becoming an RSPA certified pickleball professional is straightforward and supportive:
While some playing experience is helpful, you don't need to be a tournament-level player. For Instructor certification, comfortable recreational play is sufficient. Professional certification candidates should have intermediate skills to effectively demonstrate techniques.
Our pickleball certification focuses on the unique aspects of the sport—smaller court dynamics, different stroke mechanics, specialized strategy, and the distinct culture of pickleball. Even experienced tennis professionals benefit from understanding these pickleball-specific elements.
Absolutely! Pickleball is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 4.8 million players nationwide and new courts being built daily. Many facilities report waiting lists for lessons and clinics, creating substantial demand for qualified instructors.
Yes! Many RSPA professionals are certified in multiple racquet sports. Members certified in one sport can add additional certifications at a reduced rate, making it cost-effective to expand your teaching versatility.
Upon acceptance into the program, you'll have immediate access to our online learning modules. Many professionals begin incorporating these teaching concepts into their instruction right away, while working toward full certification.
Definitely. As facilities expand their pickleball offerings, they're increasingly seeking instructors with verified credentials. RSPA certification is widely recognized as the gold standard for professional pickleball instruction.
Your RSPA membership includes access to continuing education specifically focused on pickleball. From equipment innovations to teaching methodologies, we keep you at the cutting edge of this rapidly developing sport.
Your certification remains valid as long as you maintain your membership and complete the required continuing education credits each three-year cycle, ensuring you stay current with developments in pickleball instruction.
The Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) is committed to developing exceptional teaching professionals across all racquet sports. Our pickleball certification program builds on decades of experience in professional development while addressing the unique aspects of this rapidly growing sport.
