Arizona DUPR Coach Brad Lees: Brad Lees, an Arizona DUPR Coach and RPPK Master Instructor, has transformed his family into a pickleball powerhouse. What began as a simple game played with his kids in the neighborhood turned into a family passion. Today, his five children are highly skilled players, proving how pickleball changed their lives.
A Family United by Pickleball
“We have five kids; my daughter is my mixed partner, and my sons coach as well. One’s a 5.7 DUPR, the other is a 5.0, and my daughter is a 4.5.” – (Brad Lees)
The family’s pickleball skills also helped his daughter quickly excel in tennis, reaching the #2 spot on her high school team and qualifying for the State Championship.
“She picked up volleys and quick hands from pickleball. That gave her the confidence to rush the net in tennis while others stayed back.” – (Brad Lees)
Importance of Skilled Coaching
Brad jokingly said, “Anyone can teach… But not everyone can teach well.” He believes that good coaching requires patience, strategy, and a clear structure. Many good players assume they can coach, but Brad warns, “We need structure in this sport. Certification ensures you’re not passing down bad habits or outdated strategies.”
How DUPR Ratings Make a Difference
As a DUPR Coach, Brad runs rating sessions weekly, helping players find their true skill levels.
“A lot of the Picklr facilities are DUPR-limiting their leagues and open plays. If someone doesn’t have a DUPR, they can’t even get into those events.” – (Brad Lees)
This creates opportunities for certified coaches like Brad to build strong connections with players.
“Players meet you during the session and see how you coach. It’s a great way to build relationships—and grow your coaching business.” – (Brad Lees)
Helping Players Reach Their Goals
Brad works with players aiming to improve their DUPR ratings.
“I have several athletes that I work with who are always trying to raise their DUPR. That’s their ultimate goal. So we’re coming up with strategies, matches, and game plans that can help them get there.” – (Brad Lees)
He stresses the importance of accurate ratings, warning,
“Everyone thinks they’re better than they really are. People sign up for tournaments thinking they’re a 3.5, then get trashed and only play two games after paying a lot of money.” – (Brad Lees)
Accurate ratings help players compete fairly and enjoy the game.
Arizona’s Role in Pickleball’s Growth
Brad credits Arizona’s rise in pickleball to great weather, an active lifestyle, and more courts and events.
“There are five Picklr facilities in the Valley already, and there are even plans for a new indoor facility with 50 courts.” – (Brad Lees)
Major tournaments like the PPA and Major League Pickleball are also held in the state, attracting top players and growing local interest.
Why Coaching Certification Matters
Brad emphasizes the value of programs like RPPK for consistent, quality coaching.
“If you’re making up your own curriculum every time, players get inconsistent instruction—and that’s not good for anyone.” – (Brad Lees)
Certification also offers practical benefits, like liability insurance, which is important for safe coaching.
“If you’re coaching without insurance, you’re taking a big risk. Accidents happen—better to be covered.” – (Brad Lees)
RPPK helps coaches gain credibility and deliver better lessons.
A Vision for the Future of Pickleball
Brad Lees sees a future where DUPR ratings and RPPK certifications become standard in clubs and leagues.
“We’ve never had one clear coaching standard in pickleball. But with RPPK’s structure and DUPR’s reach, we finally could. That’s how we build long-term growth—and do it the right way.” – (Brad Lees)
News in Brief: Arizona DUPR Coach Brad Lees
Brad Lees, an Arizona DUPR Coach and RPPK Master Instructor, turned his family into top pickleball players. His work emphasizes the need for certified coaching and accurate DUPR ratings to improve the sport. Arizona’s pickleball scene is rising, driven by new courts, events, and growing community support.
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