Private Lessons & Coaches in Santa Venetia, CA

With over 15 years of basketball experience, I bring a lifelong passion for the game both on and off the court. I began my journey playing competitive AAU travel basketball, gaining exposure to high level competition and elite training environments. Throughout high school, I was a four-year varsity basketball athlete, where I developed leadership skills, a deep understanding of team dynamics, and a strong work ethic that continues to define my approach to the sport. My passion for basketball extends beyond playing. I’ve spent several years giving back through youth coaching. I previously coached at the Boys & Girls Club and with i9 Sports, where I helped young athletes develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game. My coaching philosophy emphasizes fundamentals, teamwork, and positive mentorship, creating a supportive and structured environment for players to grow both on and off the court. Whether playing, training, or coaching, I am committed to excellence, development, and fostering a love for basketball in the next generation.

Extremely comfortable coaching team/game situations. Very skilled at skilled development and training progress. Looking to improve my skills while polishing what I know and bringing that to someone’s organization that wants greatness with the kids and teachings. I love the game inside an out always looking to learn one way or another, and we would love to expand my diversity in the field.

I have been a baseball coach for a men's amateur league for 25 years, and have worked with youth/little league & high school players 1-on-1. In addition to baseball fundamentals, I coach pitchers in developing proper mechanics to avoid injury, sports and overall athletic performance. Additionally, I am a master fitness trainer with 15+ years of experience, utilizing my strength & conditioning techniques to transfer directly to baseball and other team sports.

I’m a basketball trainer and current senior competing as a combo guard at the high school level. Through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland, I cofounded a mentorship and athletics partnership, ran a summer basketball camp, and co-led a weight room renovation. As I go through the college recruiting process myself, I bring firsthand insight into elite skill development and mental discipline. My training emphasizes fundamentals, accountability, and individualized coaching for athletes at all levels.

Hey my name's Derek Schmidt and I'm a musician, sound designer, and music educator living in SF. I have a Masters in Music Composition and decades of performing experience.I've played piano for over three decades, for performance, production, and composition. I come at piano from an composer/songwriter perspective, so I can ground the lessons in music theory to help it all make sense, no matter what instrument you decide to play. I best teach beginning and intermediate students who want to explore different musical styles.

"“I’ve been wanting to continue my learning of ukulele and guitar. Derek is such a knowledgeable and patient teacher. I love how he breaks down the understanding of music theory and composition. I’ve had other guitar teachers that have taught me how to copy music tabs but Derek is really great in explaining the why of music!” – T.

I started played a little over seven years ago. I’ve toured professionally for around two year, through all the Hawaiian islands, Cali and Washington. I find nothing more exciting than music, and in truth, getting good at it is a lot easier than some make it out to be. If I could provide newcomers, or any level to some of the things I wish I would’ve know when I first started, I strongly believe it will help them to achieve whatever it is they want out of music.

"I think he is really good at music. He is so good at teaching me lessons. And I think that he should give me more lessons. And you should buy his lessons cause they are really good.

Russ is an experienced coach with over 25 years of leading athletes at the high school and youth levels. As a player, he spent two years competing in college after three standout years on his high school varsity team, where he helped capture a state championship and two league titles. His coaching career includes 25 years of high school varsity and JV football, as well as five years in Pop Warner. Currently, Russ brings his leadership and passion for the game to coaching high school boys flag football, where he continues to mentor and inspire student-athletes.

Former All-city athlete in AAA and WCAL, currently a personal trainer with focus on youth athletes and adults. Two years interning as an assistant coach for high school varsity football. Experience working with kids and Teens and overall great knowledge and communication skills. In 4-6 parents can expect there players to be faster, quicker and have more football knowledge than then players there age.

"Akheem Lewis is a former collegiate athlete(baseball) that i helped improve his speed and agility!

With 15 years of soccer coaching, I foster player growth through skill development and tactical understanding. My passion is creating a fun, yet disciplined environment where athletes reach their full potential. Let's elevate your game!

Hi, I'm Eric, and I grew up playing golf in the SF Bay Area over 40 years ago. I have a passion and true love for the game ever since I set foot on my first golf course at age 9. I have played in local tournaments and played golf competitively for several years. I have lots of patience, I'm laid back, and I really enjoy teaching. I work with all ages and skill levels. Reach out to me to find out if I'm a good fit for you.

"Eric is exactly the kind of instructor an intermediate player needs. He is patient, encouraging, and great at breaking things down so they actually stick. He fixed issues with my swing that I didn't even know I had, and I left every lesson striking the ball better than I thought possible. Can't recommend him enough! -Ryan