Obsessed Pickleballers Camp in Sarasota, FL | April 18th | Russell Elefterion

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CAMP DETAILS

The Sarasota Obsessed Pickleballers Beginner Camp

Where You Finally Start Your Pickleball Journey The Right Way

Focused Classes

8:1 Ratio

Venue

Dill Dinkers, 500 Tallevast Rd Suite 110, Sarasota, FL 34243

Date & Time

Saturday, April 18th.
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Age

40 and over

Skill Levels

2.0 - 3.0/Beginner - It’s NOT Necessary to Have a DUPR.

Pro Instructors

Russell Elefterion

🎁 Bonus #1:

The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball eBook ($47 value)

🎁 Bonus #2:

Obsessed Pickleballers Lifetime Community Membership ($360/year value)

🎁 Bonus #3:

That’s a surprise and you’ll get that after the camp

MEET YOUR COACHES

Hi, I'm Russell Elefterion

I’m a certified pickleball teaching professional with 36 years of coaching experience who’s dedicated my career to one mission: helping beginners discover their love for pickleball and build the right foundation from day one—especially players in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond.

I’m a very social person and I love being around players. It also excites me that this sport involves players young and old, both male and female. As a seasoned tournament player competing in 15-20 tournaments a year, I’ve learned so much by competing and love sharing that knowledge with beginners who are just starting their pickleball journey.

What I bring to your game:

16 years of pickleball experience
Former USTA Tennis Professional
Certified since 2016 (IPTPA, IFP 2018, PPR 2025)
36 years of certified coaching experience across multiple sports
Worked with over 80 pickleball pros worldwide while teaching and conducting camps in NC and FL

My tournament credentials speak for themselves:

2018 Gold Medalist - US Open, Naples, Florida

2019 Bronze Medalist - Represented USA at Bainbridge Cup, Germany

2022 PPA Gold Medal - North Carolina Open, Charlotte, NC

2024 Gold Medalist - PPA Cape Coral Open, Fort Myers, FL

2025 Silver Medalist - Premier Pro League, Lakewood Ranch, FL

2019 Bronze Medalist - Huntsman World Games, Utah

2022 Finalist - Florida Senior Games, Clearwater, FL

2024 Gold Medal - Hillsborough County Challenge, Tampa, FL

2025 Gold Medalist - Sarasota Open, Sarasota, FL

My story? While working in Tampa for the Parks & Recreation Department in 2010, I was teaching Senior Citizens how to Country Line Dance and they introduced me to the game. Since I was a past USTA Tennis Professional, I was automatically drawn to the game…and I’ve been obsessed ever since.

My approach: I bring 36 years of certified coaching experience and knowledge gained from competing at the highest levels. I’ve played in the US Open, represented the USA internationally, and medaled at PPA tournaments. Now I take everything I’ve learned competing against the world’s best and make it accessible to complete beginners—teaching you the fundamentals the right way from day one.

Here’s what makes my approach unstoppable:

I bring real tournament experience from competing 15-20 times per year at the highest levels, combined with certifications from IPTPA, IFP, and PPR to keep up with every trend and change in the sport.

But here’s what I’m MOST excited about: The drilling. Lots and lots of drilling.

Not boring, repetitive drilling—but beginner-friendly drilling designed to build confidence through repetition. The kind where you practice the same skill until it clicks, then celebrate that breakthrough moment together.

I don’t waste time talking. We drill. You improve. You feel it immediately.

On April 18th, I’m bringing this expertise to just a few lucky players in Sarasota.

Schedule

Your 4-Hour Transformation Journey

I. Welcome & Orientation (15 minutes)

Your Safe Space to Learn

This isn’t intimidating. Within 5 minutes, you’ll realize everyone else is a beginner too. We’ll explain exactly what to expect, introduce you to your equipment, and make sure you feel comfortable.

Coach and participant introductions
Camp structure overview
Equipment basics: understanding paddles and balls
Safety & injury prevention: warming up properly, court awareness, staying hydrated

II. Warm Up & Movement Fundamentals (15 minutes)

Learning to Move Like a Pickleball Player

Dynamic warm-up: light jogging, lateral shuffles, arm circles, reaction drills
Court movement basics: ready position, split step, moving to the kitchen
Building confidence in your movement

III. Grip Fundamentals & Paddle Control (15 minutes)

The Foundation of Every Shot

Continental grip instruction (the grip that works for everything)
Hand positioning and paddle control basics
Partner tap rally and soft control drills
Feeling the ball on your paddle

IV. Dinking Fundamentals (45 minutes)

The Heart of Pickleball

What is a dink and why it matters
Soft touch technique that anyone can learn
Body positioning near the non-volley zone

Drills:

Cross-court dinking practice
Forehand and backhand dinking
Consistency challenges (how many in a row can you do?)

V. Volleys (30 minutes)

Controlling Balls in the Air

What a volley is and when to use it
Proper paddle positioning
Punch vs swing technique (the secret beginners need to know)

Drills:

Volley exchanges with your partner
Reaction volleys (building your reflexes)
Target volleys (aiming practice)

BREAK (10 minutes)

Hydration and rest
Questions and encouragement

VI. Serving Fundamentals (25 minutes)

Starting Every Point with Confidence

Legal serve rules explained simply
Underhand motion and proper contact point
Body positioning that makes serving easy

Drills:

Target serving practice
Consistency building (getting it in every time)

VII. Return of Serve (25 minutes)

The Second Most Important Shot

Why deep returns matter
Court positioning after your return
Setting yourself up for success

Drills:

Return and move drill
Return placement practice

VIII. Game Play, Rules & Scoring (30 minutes)

Understanding the Game

Basic rules explained clearly:
- Two bounce rule
- Non-volley zone rules
- Common faults
How scoring works (we’ll practice until it makes sense)
How to call the score
Pickleball etiquette: fair calls, sportsmanship, paddle tapping

IX. Guided Gameplay (20 minutes)

Putting It All Together

Coach-guided gameplay with gentle corrections
Focus on serving sequence
Moving to the kitchen confidently
Partner communication
Experiencing actual pickleball!

X. Wrap Up & Q&A (10 minutes)

Your Path Forward

Recap of key skills learned
Open Q&A—ask anything!
Tips for continued improvement
Community access and next steps
Group photo + exchange of contacts with your new pickleball friends

WHY WE'RE OBSESSED WITH BEGINNER-FRIENDLY DRILLING (AND WHY YOU WILL BE TOO)

Most beginner camps overwhelm you with too much information.

I’m different.

Here’s my philosophy: Repetition = Confidence

You don’t learn pickleball by watching demonstrations. You learn by actually doing it—over and over—with a patient coach guiding you every step of the way.

And here’s the truth about why I’m obsessed with beginner-friendly drilling:

Because let’s be honest—we all love that moment when we try something new and it actually WORKS, don’t we?

That moment when your first dink lands softly in the kitchen.

That rush when your serve finally goes in—three times in a row!

That feeling when you rally back and forth without missing.

You don’t have to wait weeks to see progress. You see it immediately. Right there on the court.

That’s why drilling is the heartbeat of my beginner camps. Not because I think it’s good for you (though it is), but because it’s incredibly satisfying to watch yourself go from “I can’t do this” to “I just did that!” in a single afternoon.

Player Stories

See why 98% of our campers recommend this camp.

Yeah. I’m Gene Justman out of, Denver, Colorado, and, good nuts and bolts program on, playing pickleball. I learned to get low.

I learned to hit the ball long and towards the back line. Great program.

– Gene Justman

Hi, I’m Debbie from Oklahoma. I really enjoyed today’s drill. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it exceeded my expectations. I got plenty of reps, learned many new aspects of the game, and added to my toolbox. It was a great experience.

– Debbie

Hi, I’m Linda. I’m from Iowa. I joined the camp today. It was great to touch on all different aspects. We’re able to drill enough that we got good at all the different aspects. So I’m ready to hit the courts.

– Linda

A super helpful tip today thatI know I can apply immediatelyand some really great drills that my wife, who’s my playing partner, and I can can put to use this week as well. It was a great clinic.

– Camp Attendee

Hi. I just finished an Obsessed
Pickleballers clinic, and I would
recommend it to anyone who wants to get better. Mark has a great way of explaining things, and he teaches in a way that anyone can get better in the four hour session.

– Camp Attendee

REMEMBER FEELING INTIMIDATED WATCHING PICKLEBALL PLAYERS?

You know that moment when you see people playing pickleball and think…

…”I could never do that”?

…”I’m not athletic enough”?

…”Everyone else already knows how to play”?

That feeling ends on April 18th.

Because by the time you walk off the court at 4:00 PM, you’ll be playing actual pickleball games. You’ll understand the rules. You’ll know how to keep score. And you’ll have a clear path to becoming the player you’ve been watching from the sidelines.

IMAGINE THIS: It's Tuesday, April 21st (Three Days After Camp)

You’re at your local Sarasota park and you see a group playing pickleball.

But this time, instead of watching from the sidelines, you walk up confidently.

“Mind if I join?”

They welcome you in. You step onto the court. You call out the score correctly. Your serve goes in. You move to the kitchen. You dink the ball back and forth. You’re actually playing pickleball—and holding your own.

By the end of the games, they’re asking if you want to join their regular group. They’re exchanging phone numbers. You’re already part of the community.

That’s the difference between who you are right now and who you’ll be after the camp.

And it all starts the moment you register—because the transformation begins before you even arrive.

BUT HERE'S WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE ELSE TAKES YOUR SPOT

Right now, there are 3 spots left.

While you’re reading this, someone else is too. And they’re thinking the same thing you are: “Should I register?”

Here’s what happens when they click “Register” before you do:

They Get Your Spot

The person who would have been your practice partner? They’re learning with someone else now.

The person who plays at your local Sarasota courts and would have become your regular partner? You’ll never meet them.

The beginner-friendly group that’s planning to play together every week? You’re not in that group chat.

They Get Your Transformation

On April 21st, they’re walking onto courts with confidence and actual skills.

You’re still watching from the sidelines.

On April 30th, they’re playing three times a week with their new friends.

You’re still thinking “someday I’ll learn.”

On May 18th, they’re already improving to 3.0 level with 7 new friends supporting them.

You’re looking for the next beginner camp, hoping it doesn’t sell out before you decide.

They Get Your Community

Here’s what really hurts:

They’re in the Obsessed Pickleballers Community now. Getting weekly coaching. Asking questions. Connecting with passionate players nationwide.

They’re part of something bigger.

And you’re on the outside looking in—because you waited.

The Brutal Truth:

Someone is going to take that spot. The only question is: Will it be you or them?

WHAT YOU'LL ACTUALLY WALK AWAY WITH (The Real Outcomes)

You'll Actually Know How to Play Pickleball

I’ll teach you every fundamental skill you need to step onto any court and play. You won’t just understand the theory—you’ll have actually done it, repeatedly, with patient coaching from a US Open champion.

By the end of camp, you’ll be able to serve, return, dink, volley, keep score, and play actual games. You’ll understand the rules. You’ll know the etiquette. You’ll be a real pickleball player.

You'll Meet Your New Sarasota Pickleball Family

I’ll connect you with 7 other beginners at your exact skill level. You’ll exchange numbers, join the Obsessed Pickleballers Community together, and stay permanently connected with everyone you meet.

No one gets left behind. Whether you’re naturally social or more reserved, you’ll be welcomed and seamlessly connected with the entire group through our community platform.

After camp, the group chat starts buzzing with practice invites. By next month, you’ll have a regular crew of fellow beginners who understand your journey—no more feeling intimidated or alone.

You'll Have Confidence to Play Anywhere

I’ll eliminate the fear that’s been keeping you on the sidelines. Not sure about the rules? You’ll know them. Worried about looking foolish? You’ll have practiced hundreds of shots. Intimidated by the scoring? You’ll be calling it out confidently.

When you step onto courts the following week, you’ll walk on with your head held high. You’re not a beginner hoping to fake it—you’re a trained player ready to learn and improve.

You'll Understand Your Path to 3.0 and Beyond

I’ll show you exactly what to practice and how to improve. You won’t be wandering aimlessly—you’ll have a clear roadmap from beginner to intermediate to advanced.

Most beginners spend months or years developing bad habits. You’ll learn the right way from day one—setting yourself up for rapid improvement.

You'll Fall in Love with This Amazing Sport

I’ll show you why millions of people are obsessed with pickleball. You’ll leave energized, excited, and already planning your next time on the court.

Remember feeling curious about pickleball but unsure if it was for you?

On April 18th, that question gets answered.

Because when you experience what it feels like to actually play—when you’re laughing, competing, and connecting with new friends—that’s when you catch the pickleball bug.

The Bonus Package That Keeps You Improving For Life

Most camps charge such hefty prices and send you home with nothing but memories. We’re giving you a complete transformation system for life:

🎁 Bonus #1: The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball eBook ($27 value)

Why this matters:

You know that moment three weeks after camp when you forget exactly what the coach said about the dink? Or you can’t remember the serving rules?

This book is your insurance policy.

Here’s what’s inside:

Every concept from camp explained in detail for beginners
Clear diagrams and explanations
Common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them
Practice drills you can do with your new camp friends
Your roadmap from 2.5 to 3.0 to 3.5 and beyond

Over 500 five-star reviews from players just like you who use it as their ongoing playbook.

🎁 Bonus #2: Obsessed Pickleballers Lifetime Community Membership ($360/year value)

Why this matters:

Your camp crew of 8 beginners is amazing—but imagine having access to hundreds of passionate players AND coaches from across the entire US.

Here’s what happens in the community:

Weekly Live Coaching Sessions from coaches across the US—your camp friends join these sessions too, so you’re learning together even after April 18th
24/7 Access to Ask Beginner Questions – No question is too basic. Post videos, ask for help, get feedback from coaches and experienced players
Complete Video Library with beginner-focused content you can work through with your new partners
Nationwide Network – When you travel, you already have friendly faces to play with
The Group Chat on Steroids – Your camp crew is chatting, but so is the entire national community. You’re part of something massive.

Real benefit: Your 8-person beginner crew just became a nationwide family. Continuous coaching, continuous connection, continuous improvement—forever.

🎁 Bonus #3: That’s a SURPRISE! And a little hint: It’s another perfect guide for 40 and over players.

YOU'RE AT THE MOST EXCITING STAGE OF YOUR PICKLEBALL JOURNEY

You’re curious. You’re ready to start. You’ve been watching from the sidelines long enough.

Maybe you’ve tried playing once or twice and loved it. Maybe you haven’t picked up a paddle yet but you know you want to learn. Either way, you’re at the perfect starting point.

You’re about to discover why millions of people have fallen in love with this sport.

Imagine walking onto any pickleball court with confidence. Knowing the rules. Serving without hesitation. Playing actual games with real people. Being part of the community you’ve been watching.

That’s exactly what happens when you train with me at the Obsessed Pickleballers Beginner Camp.

On Saturday, April 18th, you’re going to experience 4 hours that will completely transform you from curious observer to confident pickleball player.

What Makes This Camp Completely Different

Beginner-Focused Training from a US Open Champion

This isn’t a mixed-level clinic where you’re trying to keep up with experienced players. Every single drill, every explanation, every piece of coaching is designed specifically for complete beginners.

You’re at the stage where everything is new—and that’s exciting! As a US Open Gold Medalist and former USTA Tennis Professional with 36 years of coaching experience, I know exactly how to teach you the fundamentals in a way that builds confidence, eliminates confusion, and gets you playing actual pickleball by the end of camp.

My Proven Beginner Transformation System

This isn’t random instruction thrown together. I’ve developed a systematic approach over 36 years of coaching that takes complete beginners and turns them into confident pickleball players in just 4 hours.

You’ll learn one skill at a time, practice it until it clicks, then build on that foundation. By the end of camp, you’ll be playing real games and loving every minute.

Ongoing Support Beyond The Camp

The camp is just the beginning. You’ll get lifetime access to our Obsessed Pickleballers community (normally $360/year value) with weekly virtual sessions, ongoing beginner-friendly coaching, and a network of supportive players at your level.

This isn’t a one-day event—it’s the start of your pickleball journey with a community that will support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What skill level is this camp for?

This camp is designed specifically for beginners—players at the 2.5-3.0 level or anyone who’s brand new to pickleball. If you’ve never played before or you’ve only played a few times, this camp is perfect for you.

I don't have a DUPR rating, and I've never played pickleball. Would I be eligible?

Absolutely! You don’t need a DUPR rating or any prior experience. This camp is designed for complete beginners. The DUPR range (2.5-3.0) is simply to help you understand that this is a beginner-focused camp. If you’re new to pickleball or still learning the basics, you’re in exactly the right place.

I'm not very athletic. Will I be able to keep up?

Yes! Pickleball is one of the most accessible sports out there. I’m a very social person who loves being around players of all abilities. As a former USTA Tennis Professional with 36 years of coaching experience, I know how to make learning accessible and fun for everyone. The pace is designed for learning, not competition. You’ll be challenged appropriately but never overwhelmed.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable athletic wear, court shoes (tennis/running shoes work great), a water bottle, and a towel. If you have your own paddle, bring it—but if not, paddles will be available for you to use during camp.

Please bring your phone as well to save contacts of your new pickleball friends.

Will I get one-on-one attention?

Yes! With a maximum of 8 students, you’ll receive plenty of personalized feedback throughout the camp. With 36 years of coaching experience and having worked with over 80 pickleball pros worldwide, I’m known for quickly identifying what beginners need to focus on and helping you build confidence from the ground up.

When do I get the bonuses?

Immediately upon registration:

Perfect Guide eBook (instant download)
Community access (login credentials sent to your email)

You can start learning even before you arrive.

The SURPRISE bonus will be sent to you after the camp.

What if I can't make it and need to cancel?

We understand that life happens, and we always aim to be as fair and flexible as possible.

If you need to cancel your registration for any reason, the following refund and credit options apply based on how much notice we receive:

30+ Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 90% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

15–30 Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 90% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

8–14 Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 50% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

0–7 Days’ Notice
While we’re unable to offer refunds within this window, we’re happy to provide 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp so you don’t miss out.

To request a refund or credit, please email us in writing. Once received, requests are typically processed within 10–15 business days.

Thank you for your understanding—we truly appreciate being part of your pickleball journey and look forward to welcoming you on the court soon.

I'm nervous about being a complete beginner. Is that normal?

Completely normal! Every single person at this camp is either a beginner or was a beginner not long ago. I create a supportive, encouraging environment where questions are welcomed and mistakes are part of learning. You’ll feel comfortable within the first 5 minutes.

Ready For Your Breakthrough?

This is your moment.

Saturday, April 18th, 2026. 12:00 PM. Dill Dinkers, Sarasota, FL

8 people will walk in having never held a paddle.

8 people will learn, laugh, and play their first real games.

8 people will walk out as confident pickleball players with 7 new friends and a clear path to 3.0.

The question is: Will you be one of them?

Or will spot #6, #7, or #8 go to someone else while you’re still deciding?