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John Grgurina (January 2024)
I can't say enough great things about LevelUp Pickleball Camp that was held in Monterey, CA this past Jan 14th and 15th of 2024. The three pros were OUTSTANDING. Mike Patterson, Brenden and Mel did a fantastic job of describing the strategy and philosophy of many different shots, court placement and team play in doubles. They did a great job of describing and then showing us the right and wrong way to handle a situation they were instructing. There was really good banter and coordination between the three of them before they broke us into groups with each pro handling a court and giving us the chance to practice the instruction many times so we could learn how to do it.
They were friendly, open to questions, positive and had as good a time throughout the two days as we the campers did. I am looking forward to continuing practicing what I learned at LevelUp and incorporating it into my game. I will definitely improve thanks to their help and will be coming back to the more advanced camp in the not too distant future.
Thanks so much Mike, Brenden and Mel. You are great instructors and all around good people.
My husband and I attended the Punta Gorda , FL camp. The first day was so amazing. Unfortunately most of the 2nd day was a rain out. We were graciously accommodated for the rain out. The Pros were all so so wonderful! Thank you Betty Lugar for these shares: The Betty Bucket concept, winning the toy at the amusement park and have a purpose! Those things are forever stuck in my head!! I’m looking forward to the next LevelUp Camp!
Recently attended the Turks and Caicos camp. As a first timer in attending a camp wasn't sure what to expect with the pros. First let me tell you all the pros were fantastic (Scott, KC, David, Gabby and of course Wayne and Lisa). However, Betty and Joel were extra special in their passion on going above and beyond strategically helping us on our " individual needs". One person in our group had arthritis in his hand and struggled with a roll volly. She recognized that and worked to help him tweak his swing which opened up a new skill for him. All the pros had fantastic personalities, humor and energy. Feel very grateful to have met them. Met pros and felt like we left with new friends and coaches. Thank you LevelUp!
Level up camp at Club med Turks and Caicos was absolutely the best. We had 20 pickleball players from Wildblue subdivision and received the best instruction from Wayne and Lisa Dollard and all the pros Betty, Joel, Scott, KC, Dave and Gabby They were all so good at helping us master the skills and drills and willing to play games with us! We hope to attend another camp soon ! Thanks Level Up.
I just returned from the Level Up Camp in Turks & Caicos. It was my first time attending a pickleball camp. I was very impressed with the 6 coaches/pros, as they were all enthusiastic to teach us campers. I want to give a HUGE shout out to Betty L. who was AWESOME!. She went above and beyond taking extra time with me to teach me new skills. I liked her method of teaching. She would have me practice a particular shot (ie dinks, 3rd shot drop, etc) numerous times. Once all the shots were mastered by me, she then ran me through a typical play sequence that I could use during an actual rally. It was amazing how she tied all the individual shots together into a sequence of play (serve, 3rd shot drop, cross court dink, and then shove shot). THANK YOU SOOO MUCH Betty L. for your excellent coaching/teaching skills!!! Now I can go home and truly "Level Up" my pickleball game!
Highly recommended the staff is talented positive and encouraging. Betty L has a simple and passionate approach with instructions that will improve your game!!!
The LevelUp pickleball camp I attended recently was top drawer. Knowledgeable, patient and fun-loving pros made for an amazing learning experience. As a banger, I came to the camp wanting to learn the slow game. Specifically, the drop shot. I've been playing since March and can honestly say that I had never intentionally hit a drop shot -- usually hitting them into net. After learning the proper drop mechanics and the importance of having a target (Betty's Bucket), I made 7 of 10 drop shots from the baseline in my final video session. Thanks, LevelUp and a special thanks to Betty!
The LevelUp pickleball camp I attended recently was top drawer. Knowledgeable, patient and fun-loving pros made for an amazing learning experience. As a banger, I came to the camp wanting to learn the slow game. Specifically, the drop shot. I've been playing since March and can honestly say that I had never intentionally hit a drop shot -- usually hitting them into net. After learning the proper drop mechanics and the importance of having a target (Betty's Bucket), I made 7 of 10 drop shots from the baseline in my final video session. Thanks, LevelUp and a special thanks to Betty!
A two-day clinic packed full of instruction. Excellent coaches, useful drills, and a bargain price. Highly recommend!
I just finished a two day, intermediate level camp in Anthem, Arizona.This was my first extended pickleball instruction experience. All I can say is that it was fantastic and met the 'promise' of the company as my game is now a 'level up'. Joel led the pro-instructors consisting of Betty, Tracie, Glauka, and Brandon. All were great teachers who demonstrated the skills that we were just taught and answered question patiently and in an incredibly friendly manner. If you are looking for a training environment to significantly improve your game, I would highly recommend a LevelUp camp, especially if the above noted instructors are present.
First ever "camp" experience and it was fantastic. Joel, Betty & Tracie went above and beyond with hands on demonstrations and training. The weather was BRUTAL but they did a great job of still getting in all the content, demos and practice while giving us all an opportunity to take breaks and keep cool. Highly recommend the intermediate camp - now looking forward to implementing ALL THE THINGS they taught us the past 2 days!
My husband and I just finished a beginning Pickleball camp in Mesa, AZ. You didn't give me enough stars to rate the excellent instruction, positive feedback, and skills reinforcement provided by Betty and Steve. I truly was a beginner as I had never played, but this was the best way to learn the right way before I had a chance to develop bad habits. Now I know why we "have a purpose" for our shot each time.
I did my first pickleball camp in Tucson with Joel, Betty, Steve, and Sarah. It completely exceeded all of my expectations. They gave us 2 full days of learning 'all things pickleball', while focusing on learning the things that can move us to the next level. And they made it fun! I worked hard, learned a lot and made some great friends. What I like the most about the pro's is that even though we had 30+ campers, I got lots and lots of personal attention. I think everyone would agree. I could always find a pro to ask a question, and then we would go to the court and work it out. I can't wait to go to my next Level up camp. Thanks Joel, Betty, Steve and Sarah! You are all awesome!!
The two-day Intermediate Camp that I attended in Surprise, AZ with instructors Joel, Betty, and Tracie was a tremendously enjoyable and informative experience. In addition to imparting their knowledge and expertise, all of the coaches brought a fun and positive energy to the teaching process. By applying what I learned, I noticed an immediate improvement in my level of play and expect further growth in my game as I master the techniques taught. I highly recommend LevelUp training to anyone looking to become a better player!
I just finished level up camp in Mesa, Arizona and I can’t express how fun and educational this camp is. Every instructor there was extremely knowledgeable and patient. They could see where your problem was coming from and work with you to learn the correct mechanics. Repetition and knowing the logic is the key to all these new skills and we had the opportunity to put them to use with the other campers. It was also perfect to get the explanations as a group then go to the courts to put the new skills to work (a welcome break from the physical part of the camp😀). Sometimes I understood the new skill and many times I didn’t and the instructor would help me fix my problems. I know I can’t learn everything in one camp but I definitely left this camp knowing I can hold my own on the courts against some different level players. I will continue practicing and see you all in 6 months to show off what you taught me and will be ready to move up to the next level. Thank you - you are ALL AMAZING!
The camp was excellent. It was so nice to have a women instructor, Betty Lugar, who not only knew great technical information but was a great instructor. She was patient, concise, clear and just lovely. Clearly knew what she was talking about and how to teach. Learned so much in terms of both strategies and techniques. Lots of “take homes” that I can immediately apply. Consider me a Betty groupie. Steve Wong was the assistant and how lucky were we to have his expertise, too. Best combination of instructors ever.
Wow!! I have been taking 1-hour lessons that focused on areas I thought were the skills that were holding me back. When I finished these short sessions, I had to go and apply what I had been taught. No one was there to correct me.
Taking the LevelUp Pickleball camp was watch, Q&A, and go apply what you were taught, and then you were teamed up with a pro! This was the most amazing and beneficial pickleball training I have ever had. Joel, Betty. And the team went the extra mile to make sure you understood exactly what was taught. Very clear and concise. The extra mile was the extra 10 miles. Betty take the time during her lunch to work with a group of us that wanted to focus on our drops and dinks. She watched us all dink/drop and then said, imagine there are 6 big buckets on the other side of the next. She explained what each one was for - pull/reset. This sunk into my head in no time. I was a wannabe drop/dinker but did not understand how to have the confidence to make it happen. Angles, looser paddle grip, and many more tricks (if you want to know more... take the camp :)) I was a banger trying to get my way but in the two short days, I have high confidence in my slow game.
After the first day of camp, Joel and Betty took the time to work with a small group of us, and in those three extra hours (yes, dedication from them to make sure you come away a better player) my game improved sooooo much! I thought I played well before, but after I played tonight at my local courts, I was praised for the game I played many of my regulars—proof in the training.
Thank you, Betty, you have raised my confidence in my slow game. Joel, you are a fantastic instructor and very patient. I am honored to have had you and Betty beat it into my stubborn head. The rest of the team was equally as excellent—great critique from everyone. I highly recommend LevelUp and can't wait to become a groupie! LOL. P.S. Amazing campers too! Thanks to everyone for the memories. So much love and admiration for Joel and Betty. If you come through Colorado, look me up. I am always available to play or do something fun!
Forever a LevelUp camper,
John Waechter <3
I recently attended a Pickleball clinic led by two excellent instructors, Joel Ickes and Betty Luger.
From start to finish, Joel & Betty gave us 110%. In the two-day clinic they covered every aspect of Pickleball, which I found very beneficial. What sets them apart from other Pickleball professionals is their contagious passion to teach. Which made it fun.
I highly recommend Joel, Betty and LevelUp. It's a first-class operation.
I have been to other camps, they did not compare. level up is by far the most professional. Betty Lungar was the assistant coach and she was very helpful with her practical coaching methods. They really helped supplement the level one instruction. Betty used “Betty’s buckets and simple things to remember like position a, b and c. Have a target! A simple target is what. You need. Her supplementation with this added visual direction made all the difference. All the instructors were great too. Her techniques that she drilled will be what I remember.
Kim - intermediate.
June 1-2, 2023 - Newport Beach, CA - Beginner Camp
Very fun and informative instruction. The six-hours days take a physical toll, but despite the aches and stiffness I had waking up on the third day, I still was disappointed that I wasn't going back to "class" the day after it was over.
All of the coaches were great. In particular, Joel and Betty genuinely -care- about their campers and it shows in everything they say and do. They foster a fun and supportive learning environment, and I learned skills that instantly improved my pickleball game.
Yes - it's expensive. Yes - the 12-hours-in-2-days format is physically challenging. But if you are fortunate enough to attend, you will be very glad you did.
Outstanding coaching from Joel and Betty. The overall LevelUp coaching philosophy is great. Coupled with the thoughtful and insightful coaching from Joel and Betty, my game improved in both the physical skills as my overall game understanding and strategy. Once I've had the chance to put what I learned into play, I will be back to learn what's next from these two as they have much more to offer.
I’m so happy I found Level Up Camp. Joel and Betty are the best team ever. They give more time and attention than I’ve ever had. Literally 102%. I can’t even count the tips and strategies I now have because they cared enough to teach us.
I loved this camp!! Betty was articulate in displaying what to do always. Both of them catch ever little thing we do off and explain in detail how to correct. Joel is equally detailed, funny and explains everything clearly over and over again. I also love the dynamics between the two of them. I am grateful for their patience, expertise and wonderful sense of humors. Thank you so much and can’t wait do another clinic with you two. Jamie
The LevelUp Pickleball Camp was a great investment (time & money) in improving my pickleball play. Being a person that never played a racquet sport, this camp helped me learn so much about technique and strategy which is already showing up in my recreational play. I highly recommend this camp if you want to improve your game for sure.
I had a wonderful two day clinic led by Lisa and Mike. They left no stoned unturned when evaluating and improving my game. Positions, strokes , strategy and more were were covered in a kind and professional manner. I am signing up again.
Tom and I really enjoyed the Level Up Pickleball Camp we attended last weekend. I rarely write a review but was so impressed with the professionalism of the instructors and the efficiency of the way the camp was run. More importantly, I really think it improved our skills! i feel that our play is truly one "Level Up"
I have attended not 1, but 2, LevelUp Pickleball camps in the last couple of months. Hopefully, that's ample evidence of how much I not only enjoyed the first one but how much I learned. 15 minutes into the first camp I grasped something valuable but so basic about dinking (grip) and I knew my path for the rest of the camp was set. Wayne, Lisa and the other outstanding instructors/pros were committed to improving everyone's game and really seemed to delight in our individual progress. If you want to raise your game, this is the camp.
My husband and I attended the Richmond,VA camp. We couldn’t have been more pleased with how it was run. We were instructed on what we were doing wrong and shown the proper techniques along with amazing drills. The entire coaching staff were fun to be around as they all had great personalities. I highly recommend their camp.
This is excellent pickleball instruction! The shot to be learned is described, then the pros demonstrate it. Then the campers do several specific drills to practice the shot. Then sometimes, a mini-game. Not only do you learn shot technique, but you learn various strategies to beat your opponents. I took the camp in Bozeman with Wayne and Lisa Dollard. They are both excellent instructors and lots of fun. There is nothing else I could expect from a camp. I came away with a booklet of drills and strategies that I will use to continue to improve my game. I would take their camp every month if I could!!!
Had a great weekend in OC Maryland at Levelup Pickleball Camp. Instructors Wayne, Lisa and Brendan were top notch, personable, encouraging, funny and thorough. The ratio of the pro to camper was perfect! Lots of attention and instruction. Learned so much more about the game and great technique, strategy and drills. Learned more about the importance of great positioning, stance and execution of shots. Tons of great content and lots of fun! I would highly recommend and would consider attending again in the future!
This is excellent pickleball camp! They taught us every aspect of the game. They would demonstrate and then we would practice. they filmed us at the beginning and at the end to show how much we learned and improved our game. Wayne, Lisa, Brenden and Riley are great to work with and did a great job on the one on one instruction. Good people, Good Camp!
Great camp. Great instructors who explained the how and why of each of the lessons, shots and techniques taught. Very welcoming and responsive to questions. Lots of hard work and very fun. Well worth the cost.Planning on attending again next year.
Don't know how a pickleball camp could get any better. Wayne and Lisa are great instructors. I learned so much I have had to review it all several times.
Excellent!
What a great pickleball camp in Bozeman with Wayne and Lisa Dollard from LevelUp. It was such a fun experience; a really good environment; and I learned a lot. Highly recommend. Well worth it. Thanks Wayne & Lisa!!
This was the best Pickleball training I have ever had. The drills were excellent and we had time to practice them in play. Wayne, Lisa, DJ and Brenden were awesome instructors .I strongly recommend LevelUp if you want to improve your game!!!!!
My husband attended this camp. He was very skeptical going, but he was really impressed with the quality of instruction. He has improved noticeably. He readily recommends level up pickleball camps.
Fantastic experience, would reccomend to any player wanting to improve pickleball skills,
This is a great camp. The instructors will instill confidence, boost your technical skills / power and supercharge you to the next level.
This was the best camp ever! The detailed analysis brought my game level way up! I played two times after I came back from camp and I could not believe the improvement. A couple people asked me how I had improved so quickly. Made the game even more fun than before. Lisa and Wayne are awesome!!
Amazing! Logical and practical information. Amazing drills to help you improve your skills. All that, and it was fun!
Wayne and Lisa are passionate about both the game and helping players improve their skills. It is obvious they have both been teaching a long time. Immediately after playing I came back to my 4.0+ friends and had many improved shots and now they want to start practicing so they can keep up. I thoroughly recommend their camps.
Very enthusiastic and professional instruction. I learned so much and improved my game tremendously. I look forward to the next clinic. Lisa and Wayne are the best.
Just attended the camp with Wayne and Riley in Newport Beach. Fantastic! I learned so much on several aspects of the game.
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