About
Meet John McLean at
Pickleball 4 Life
John's coaching journey began nearly 40 years ago with a passion for teaching downhill skiing — a path that led him to become a Level 4 Ski Instructor with the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance and a member of the Canadian Interski Demonstration Team. His love of sport and natural ability to teach have been central to his life ever since.When John discovered pickleball in 2021, it didn’t take long before coaching became part of the experience. “I love it when people grasp a new concept — it’s so exciting to observe their reaction!” he says.Today, John brings that same passion, precision, and enthusiasm to the pickleball court. Whether you're new to the game or looking to sharpen your skills, he’s committed to helping you grow with confidence. Known for his keen eye and thoughtful approach, John creates a coaching environment that’s supportive, focused, and always fun.NCCP Level 2 Certified Pickleball Coach
Coaching For New & Seasoned Players
New to Pickleball?
Pickleball is a fun, fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong,
played on a smaller court with a paddle and a plastic ball.
It’s easy to learn, beginner-friendly, and great for all fitness levels.
Whether you're looking for a new way to stay active, meet people, or enjoy some friendly competition,
pickleball offers something for everyone.
Coaching is available for all skill levels, from absolute beginners to upper intermediate.
Ready to Take Your Game to the Next Level?
If you’ve been playing for a while and want to sharpen your technique, strategy, or consistency, John offers focused coaching for intermediate and advanced intermediate players.
Sessions are tailored to help you develop a stronger, more well-rounded game.
Whether you’re working on dinks, drives, serves, lobs, backhands, forehands, or third and fifth shot drops.
With targeted guidance and purposeful drills, you'll build confidence and
expand your shot variety to elevate your overall play.
Our Services
Private Coaching (1:1)
Receive personalised coaching tailored to your specific needs and goals. Whether you're brand new to the game or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your skills, one-on-one sessions provide targeted support to help you grow with confidence, strengthen your technique, and elevate your game.
Prices start at $60 per hour
Book a 1:1 session below.
Choose 1 or 2 hours.
Semi Private Coaching
Small group (2- 4 players) coaching combines focused instruction with the fun and energy of playing alongside others. Perfect for friends or partners at similar levels, these sessions offer individualised tips within a supportive and dynamic environment — helping everyone grow together while still receiving personalised attention.
Prices start at $30 per person
Book a small group session below.
Choose 1 or 2 hours.
Group & Corporate Events
Ideal for clubs, workplaces, or community groups, these sessions focus on fun, connection, and building skills in a social setting. Whether it’s team-building, a regular class, or a one-off event, group coaching is a great way to introduce more people to the game — or to help teams develop strategy and confidence together.
Contact us to discuss prices
and availability
Single sessions and packages available.
Sessions range from 1 to 3 hours
Locations:
Vancouver, Burnaby & Richmond
Please note: If a session takes place at a paid facility, the associated court fees are not included in the session price. John is happy to book the court on your behalf, and the cost will be added to your total.
Get in touch to discuss
Karen L, BC
"John is a talented coach.
He is observant, patient and very thorough in his demonstrations and explanations without using ‘word salads’. John is able to get to the point in a kind and efficient manner. John is a skilled coaching professional who is great with beginners, as well as intermediate to advanced intermediate players.
I have recommended John to many fellow players, who have all been very pleased with their results. My personal game has grown under his guidance."
Catherine, BC
"I find John to be one of the best instructors I have had in over five years of lessons.
He is equally attentive to all his students and can quickly and accurately assess which elements need improvement.
He communicates well, using a variety of teaching methods, and adapts his lessons based on student input.
He is patient, affable, professional, and clearly passionate about what he does."
Julie L, BC
"I have had the pleasure of being coached by John and
find him to be patient, clear in his instructions and very skilled in assessing and correcting skills. His lessons are well-paced - starting with a dynamic warm-up, and followed by a progression of increasingly more demanding skills. John uses humour and gentle guidance to create a supportive, safe environment.
I highly recommend John as a coach. Thank you, John!"
READY TO GET STARTED?
LET'S PLAY!
Book your first session via buttons above