Claudia Fontana

Welcome! I'm Claudia Fontana, and like you, I LOVE pickleball. What started as a passion has evolved into my mission to help players at every level elevate their game and fall in love with this incredible sport. With 35 years of experience in Physical Education and coaching Volleyball, Basketball, and Softball, I've expanded my expertise to include pickleball instruction. This extensive background in sports education gives me a unique perspective on skill development, strategy, and helping athletes reach their potential. As a former Physical Education teacher turned pickleball instructor, coach, and author, I understand that the game is not always about power and speed – it's about strategy, placement, and smart play.

I specialize in Pickleball Personal Training and Clinic Instruction, working with players from beginner 2.5 levels all the way up to 5.0 and professional levels. My students have achieved medal-winning performances, progressing from Silver to Gold and making a real impact in this exciting and fast-growing sport. Whether you're just starting your pickleball journey or looking to refine advanced techniques, I provide personalized instruction and lesson development tailored to your specific needs and goals.

I believe in coaching with purpose. Every drill, every strategy session, and every lesson is designed to give you the tools you need to play smarter, not just harder. My approach focuses on strategic shot making that emphasizes placement and control over pure power, skill development through proven drills and techniques, game intelligence that teaches when and how to execute specific shots, and footwork fundamentals that serve as the foundation supporting all other skills.

I'm the author of "Pickleball CPR Drills - Coaching Pickleball Readiness", “10-Days to Better Dinking” and "Drop Shot Decoded". These books provide players and coaches with proven, ready-to-use skills and drills and information that will improve your game. My PB-GRID system helps players plan and play with purpose, giving students the edge they need for direction and placement in controlled shot making. These resources include teaching techniques and strategies to not only elevate your game but help you coach others as well.

When I'm not on the pickleball courts in the Greater Cleveland area, I enjoy leading pickleball travel experiences, including trips to beautiful destinations like Costa Rica, where players can combine their love of the game with adventure and new friendships.

Whether you're looking to improve your drop shot, master your footwork, or develop a more strategic approach to your game, I'm always ready to help players achieve their pickleball goals.

Ready to take your game to the next level? Start by checking out my books and get your game on track to unlock your pickleball potential.