I bet all Pickleball players, including myself, have imagined what it would be like to attend a Pickleball camp in a warm, sunny location with all the food and premium drinks you could dream of. Over the past couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing just that, and I’m so fortunate to have met incredible people along the way, including some outstanding coaches who have partnered with Pickleball Travel. One of the best in the industry is Mark Price of Mark Price Pickleball.
A few days ago, we returned from an amazing camp led by Mark. It included drills and one-on-one coaching that you simply can’t find online. Just as photos and videos of the resort can’t capture its full beauty, the same is true for Mark’s coaching. Strangely enough, as incredible as his tips are, it’s even more impactful to hear his advice in person. For instance, he brought up a concept not often discussed in the Pickleball world: supporting your partner. He emphasized how every negative word—whether directed at yourself or your partner—can affect the rest of your match.
Additionally, Mark provided insights into court positioning that I had never considered before. Having him there to place us exactly where we needed to be was truly priceless. Each morning began with Pickleball instruction, and just when the Caribbean sun became too hot to bear, we’d take a short stroll to the resort’s numerous pools. Stepping into the seemingly ice-cold water—actually just air temperature—was the perfect way to cool off after the intense training.
Lunch followed, perhaps delivered by a butler or enjoyed at one of the resort’s many fine dining venues. Of course, we made sure to ask for recommendations on the best drinks the resort had to offer. We sampled plenty, from Bob Marleys and Dirty Bananas to cocktails featuring the finest locally made rum. In Jamaica, “no problem” is more than a saying—it’s a way of life. Whether it was a specialty dish not on the menu or a unique drink crafted with a Jamaican flair, the staff made sure every request was fulfilled with ease.
Day after day, we started our mornings with Mark Price’s exceptional tips. He even prepared personalized notes and instructions for each participant. Watching the students light up with “eureka” moments as they mastered new skills was one of the highlights of the trip. Evenings brought dinner reservations arranged in advance—a hallmark of Pickleball vacation companies like Pickleball Travel™—and opportunities to enjoy the resort’s entertainment. Fire shows, acrobatics, incredible singers, and feats of strength kept the nights lively. At times, the saxophonist performing seemed talented enough to tour globally, yet there he was, sharing his gift in this small corner of Jamaica.
Pickleball, coaching, and all-inclusive resorts might sound indulgent—and they are. That’s exactly why so many people dream of doing it. The first step is simply deciding to make it happen and planning for the experience. It’s worth it.