Pickleball SA welcomes American pro Alex Simon for coaching clinics at the German Pickleball Club
All the way from Las Vegas, Nevada in America, Alex Simon shared his top level of expertise to aspiring South African pickleball players in Paulshof.
The South African pickleball community recently received a major boost as American pickleball sensation, Alex Simon, shared his expertise during coaching clinics at the German Pickleball Club (GPC) in Paulshof from November 8–10.
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Simon, who holds the distinction of being the fastest player to reach number two in the world rankings in singles, achieved significant success in professional pickleball tournaments, earning gold, silver, and bronze medals.
Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports, with 36.5 million players in America and 5 000 registered players in South Africa, where the pay-and-play market is already worth R3m per month.
The sport’s popularity is mushrooming, with expectations of 150 courts nationwide within 12 months and over 1 000 within five years.
Simon, who has taken his coaching sessions to Europe, South America, Asia, and now Africa, held his clinic on the four brand-new courts at the German Club, inaugurated in July.
“I had a wonderful time being in South Africa to share knowledge with people who love the sport just as much as I do. We went to several clubs and schools and worked with young children, introducing pickleball to them. They were so receptive.”
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Being in South Africa for the first time, Simon said he was quite impressed with how the players played the game, which made the clinics easier, and so much fun.
“The players are much better than I expected. They understand the game and, most importantly, they are receptive to the way the game should be played and the way it is going. I loved I what I saw. They have the right attitude and skills necessary to be top players in the world.
“One of the nice things about travelling the world is that, not a lot of top coaches and players come to these parts of the world to help develop the game. So, I have taken upon that mission. I have been to five continents to help bring pickleball, and to elevate the game in those areas. It is so nice to see the warm reception. I feel honoured and happy to bring a high level of pickleball to South Africa.”
GPC’s Allon Rock said, “We were thrilled to have such an amazing player come and coach in South Africa.” He said that the long list of players signed up wanting to learn from one of the world’s best spoke to the growing popularity of the sport in South Africa, and Simon’s enthusiasm to be here was infectious.
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