MEET THE TEAM

HEAD PROS

  • MARK GOTTFRIED

    Mark is a top-ranked Canadian professional pickleball player and coach, finding his love for the sport back in 2019.  Mark shares his passion and knowledge for the game by leading clinics and programming across the GTA for thousands of pickleball enthusiasts, ranging from beginner to high performance programs.

    He is an active tournament player, recently winning the 2023 Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) title with Toronto United PC, holding the best mixed-doubles record.

  • DANIEL GOTTFRIED

    Daniel is a professional pickleball player and coach with over seven years of experience. He won the 2023 Canadian National Pickleball League title with Toronto United and served as Manager of the East Toronto Smash in 2024. Daniel’s coaching style is strategic and form-focused, with a strong emphasis on understanding the why behind every skill and decision.

    He loves working with players of all levels and especially enjoys the moment when a new skill or tactic “clicks” and transforms their game.

  • MAX SCHAEFLER

    Max is a dedicated pickleball teaching pro with a passion for both playing and coaching the game at the highest level. Competing in prestigious tournaments across Canada and the USA, Max brings a wealth of competitive experience to their teaching.

    With a focus on helping players elevate their skills, Max offers expert instruction for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced competitors. Committed to growing the sport, Max strives to inspire and develop the next generation of players, guiding them to reach their full potential and enjoy the game at its highest level.

PRO PLAYERS / COACHES

  • CAROLINA HACK

    MISSISSAUGA | HAMILTON

    Carolina has played pickleball for five years, including three at the pro level. She has been coaching for three years, is a Level 2 Certified Coach, and coaches the National Youth Team at the World Cup. She focuses on strong fundamentals, smart tactics, and building players’ confidence, always bringing high energy and enthusiasm. She loves sharing her knowledge with players of all ages and levels.

  • LUCA D’AMICO

    MISSISSAUGA

    Luca D’Amico is a professional pickleball player and proud member of the Southwestern Ontario Brewers in the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL). Luca loves seeing players improve their game and discover the joy of playing the greatest sport on the planet ... PICKLEBALL!

  • DANIELLE BOSS

    HAMILTON

    Dani is a professional pickleball player and coach, currently competing with the Northern Lights in the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL). A former Division I volleyball athlete at Boise State University, Dani brings a unique athletic background that instills discipline, resilience, and mental toughness. Qualities that now define her approach to competing and coaching at the highest level.

    In addition to pickleball, Dani has extensive experience coaching both indoor and beach volleyball, where she is passionate about helping players build their skills, confidence, and love for the game. Known for her athleticism, versatile shot-making, and technical approach, Dani’s coaching style is designed for players who are eager to work hard, improve their game, and enjoy the process along the way.

  • MICHAEL RIZZO

    HAMILTON

    Rizzo is a professional pickleball player and coach, currently competing for the Detroit-Windsor Drive in the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL). A former Division I Student Athlete at Boise State University, Rizzo transitioned to pickleball in 2023 and quickly rose to the pro level, competing in both Canadian tournaments and events across the U.S. Known for his tactical approach to the game, Rizzo emphasizes on-court strategy, shot selection, and an analytical perspective that helps players elevate their performance. His coaching style blends high-level competitive experience with a clear, structured teaching method designed to make the game both strategic and enjoyable for players of all levels

COACHES

  • RYLIE COOK

    TORONTO

    Rylie is a Level 1 certified pickleball coach with a tennis background, experience training with top players in Canada and Florida, and a tech-driven approach that blends strategy, biomechanics, and fitness. Rylie specializes in mechanics, shot selection, transition play, and court awareness to help players elevate their game with a data-focused, movement-based style.

  • JOHN MERGULHAO

    MISSISSAUGA | HAMILTON

    Coach John is a certified, passionate pickleball instructor who tailors training to each player’s goals, from learning fundamentals to sharpening doubles strategy or preparing for competition. Known for his motivating, approachable style, he emphasizes shot selection, footwork, and positioning while actively supporting the sport through tournaments and community programs.

  • PAUL LEEDER

    HAMILTON

    A 2-time US Open silver medalist, 2-time National Champion, and a 5-time Ontario Provincial Champion, Paul has reached the premier levels of coaching. Widely known as the pickleball ambassador of Ontario, Paul has dedicated his time to growing the game of Pickleball. An IPTPA certified teaching professional with a 5.0 professional rating, OPA Hamilton is honoured to have Pauly with us, helping grow the game and community together.

  • REG BURNS

    MISSISSAUGA

    Reg has seven years of pickleball experience and enjoys helping players improve through clear, foundational tips and strategies. He fosters a supportive community where players help each other grow and loves seeing how quickly newcomers advance with the right guidance.

  • ANH LUU

    MISSISSAUGA

    Anh has over ten years of coaching experience and specializes in small-group and one-on-one instruction. She loves watching players progress, especially those moments when everything clicks and their joy makes the game come alive.

  • DOUG REYNOLDS

    MISSISSAUGA

    Doug found his love the sport back in 2021 and shares his passion for the game teaching lessons and clinics in Mississauga and Oakville. He is a Level 2 certified coach and throughout his life participated in multiple sports and has maintained a high level of physical fitness.

  • ABHAY ANNASWAMY

    MISSISSAUGA | HAMILTON

    Coach Abhay, a 4.75+ rated player and Level 1 OPA coach, brings four years of pickleball experience plus a background in badminton, tennis, and provincial cricket, leading beginner programs with a focus on strong fundamentals and clear technique.

  • IAN ROSEN

    TORONTO

    Bio coming soon.

  • TARIQ AYUBI

    MISSISSAUGA

    Bio coming soon.

  • RICHIE LANYS

    TORONTO

    Bio coming soon.