Private Lessons & Coaches in Smithton, IL
These coaches teach at top ranked spots and have great lesson fulfillment & student reviews.
Ally is a basketball coach and player-development instructor with more than 25 years of experience. She specializes in teaching fundamentals, building basketball IQ, and developing confident, well-rounded players. Her background includes coaching at the junior high and high school levels, officiating youth leagues, and serving as a certified sports-safety professional. Ally brings a patient, structured, and supportive teaching style designed to help athletes of all ages improve skills, understand the game, and grow through consistent, personalized training.
Allyson
With a love for Pickleball, I strive to inspire every player. My approach makes learning fun and accessible, guiding students to reach their full potential on the court. I hope to work with you soon!
Bo
I'm an Exercise Science graduate and outfielder pursuing the opportunity to play independent ball while developing the next generation of athletes. My coaching philosophy is built on two things: Attitude and Effort. Talent matters, but consistency, work ethic, and mindset separate players in the long run. As a coach, I specialize in: Hitting development Outfield defense Arm strength and throwing mechanics Speed and athletic performance Strength and mindset training
"Very knowledgeable! Got me ready for the summer in just two lessons.
Za
With nearly a decade dedicated to basketball instruction, I'm committed to fostering both skill development and a deep appreciation for the game. My approach blends strategic fundamentals with personalized training, ensuring each athlete reaches their full potential. I strive to create a supportive and engaging environment where passion meets progress.
"I've gotten so much better since working with hannah. she's a well informed coach
Hannah
I’m a dual-certified Pickleball Coach (PPR and IPTPA) who loves helping beginners and early-intermediate players level up fast. I specialize in teaching 2.5–3.5 players the what, how, and why of good pickleball so you build real skills and confidence—not just shots that work “sometimes.” I’ve coached hundreds of players at Vetta Sports and even taught as a Visiting Pickleball Instructor at Club Med Punta Cana. I bring drills and techniques I’ve learned directly from top pros and tailor them to make learning easier, clearer, and more fun. I’m a competitive 4.0+ player with medals from regional tournaments and experience on the inaugural St. Louis Shock Minor League Pickleball team. I also use tech and new AI tools to help pinpoint the quickest ways for you to improve. Let’s get you playing smarter, stronger, and having more fun on the court.
"I was fortunate enough to meet Jeff at the Webster Tennis Center where he was doing some organized beginner classes. I had been struggling with progressing as an intermediate player and asked Jeff for some individual instruction. I was able to work with Jeff individually for a few sessions and saw immediate improvement in my play in the transition zone. Jeff was patient, kind, and made several excellent suggestions, that have helped me to develop more consistency in my play. Jeff also helped me to re-grip my paddle and discuss ways to weight the paddle to gain better control and to diminish stress on my elbow. After a few initial sessions, I was able to set up group lessons for several of my playing partners and the feedback has been glowingly positive. Jeff is knowledgeable and approachable in his instruction and I would absolutely recommend him for anyone looking to improve their game.
Jeff
With eight years of volleyball instruction, I foster skill and passion for the game. My coaching focuses on fundamentals, strategy, and building confident athletes. I believe in creating a fun and challenging environment where players thrive. I started learning how to play Volleyball in the 7th grade. Since my school didn’t have any volleyball programs for kids my age I wasn’t allowed to play until I got into high school. I was captain of varsity all my 4 years and my aces won my team 2nd place in districts. Our first ever trophy for girls Volleyball at my school. When I graduated I got asked by my high school to come back and help coach for the school. I felt a lot of gratitude about being able to help young girls who will soon be out into the real world and play for someone’s college. I promise I will teach you so many things about volleyball when you get out on the court you will be unstoppable!!!
"During the 2025 season of volleyball I’ve gotten to know coach Shaw more as a person and as a coach. She truly is one of the best coaches I’ve had over the years. She’s helped me and many other players with their progress in volleyball. Coach Shaw has connected with us as a group and I hope to have her continue to be apart of CPA’s volleyball team. - Alexia’
Christianah
Current high school boys sprints coach. Former NCAA D1 assistant coach for sprints and relays. With me, you will learn proper warmup up and cooldown, along with workouts to maximize your performances from the 60m dash to 400m dash.
Tara
Hello, My name is Edita Black and i was born and raised in Bosnia. I have lived in the United States for the last 35 years. My background includes bio pharmaceutical engineering, teaching special education all ages, private tutoring of the English language and remote interpreting for Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian languages.
"Edita is wonderful! Please book her for your next class. I booked her last summer and when i started med school everything i learned with her made it so much easier! I will be graduating in 2 years and i still go to her for some words when i have to take an exam! She is a teacher, a friend!
Edita
With 15 years on the court, I offer tailored basketball coaching. My passion is nurturing talent, building skills, and fostering a love for the game, one basket at a time. Basketball is not only a physical game but it’s a mental game. Come train with me and get your mind right!
Ionathan
As a former D2 athlete with 14 years of coaching experience, I'm dedicated to helping players unlock their full potential on the court. My tailored approach combines technical expertise with a fun and supportive environment, ensuring lasting improvement. Let's elevate your game!
"Kenzie is very good with children. Highly encouraging, very patient and friendly. She follows through and creates a fun environment for the kids. My son is now the #1 seed in varsity thanks to Kenzie for encouraging him to pursue and join tournaments
Mckenzie
A few years ago, I was introduced to pickleball and found it to be an enjoyable pastime. With a background in ping pong, I noticed many transferable techniques, which made the transition smooth. Over the past year, my passion for the sport has grown immensely; I play weekly and have had success in local tournaments, consistently placing in the top three. Currently at a 4.0 skill level, I’m eager to share my love for pickleball by teaching others. Although I haven’t coached before, I take pride in my patient gameplay and focus on refining technique, believing that both technique and power are essential for improvement.
"Taylor is wise beyond his years. He is very cordial and easy to talk to, while encouraging at the same time. Thank you Taylor!
Taylor
For nearly five decades, I've honed my craft, mastering the beautiful game. Now, I'm passionate about cultivating the next generation of soccer stars, sharing my expertise and love for the sport. Let's work together to elevate your game to new heights.