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Not A "Cookie Cutter" Camp
Pickleball System Camps
Designed by head coach CJ Johnson-Better Pickleball and Tony Roig-In2Pickle
to help you understand pickleball technique, strategy, and shot selection in an entirely new way.
2023 camps in Tampa, FL, and Lake Tahoe NV are sold out.
Notify Me When Camps Are Scheduled
The Immersive WeArePickleball Camp Experience
To play your best pickleball, you need:
- The ability to hit the shots necessary to construct an effective rally.
- The knowledge of what shot to hit at each stage during a rally.
- The physical ability and mindset to focus on the rally at hand.
WeArePickleball Immersive Camps are designed around these core pillars, Mechanical, Strategic, and Athletic.
You will improve your shot-making and importantly, shot decision-making. As a result, you'll leave camp feeling more comfortable and confident on the court, and playing better pickleball.
WeArePickleball camps are different from ordinary camps
Besides the WeArePickleball Camp Guarantee*?
- 8:1 player to head pro ratio (not to assistant instructors). WeArePickleball camps are close-knit affairs. We get to know you and you get to know us. This allows us to customize your experience to what will most help you along your path. This is your camp experience.
- WeArePickleball camps are the only ones teaching the Three Pillars of Pickleball™ - Mechanical, Strategic, and Athletic. We respect your intelligence and the curiosity to learn that brings you to a pickleball camp. The camp is not just about drills and hitting. We share with you pickleball’s framework. You will learn the pieces that have been missing from your game.
- We approach you as a pickleball athlete and will give you the tools you need not just to hit a better ball, but also to have a fuller relationship with our sport. You will learn how to move better on the court, minimize injury, and even think about the game differently.
- You will head back to your local courts a changed player and, indeed, person. You will see the game differently than you did before camp, with a fuller understanding of what you (and the other players on the court) are trying to accomplish on the court. You will be more confident and comfortable knowing that you now know the game. And the next steps on your improvement path will be laid before you.
PLUS...You Already KNOW and Trust Your Coaches
Why would you trust a stranger with your game?
CJ
Hey there — I’m a professional three-sport athlete and coach who has spent my entire adult life earning a living from playing and coaching sports. Since I started coaching more than three decades ago, one thing has remained the same: My commitment to see students not as they are but as what they can become and to move heaven and earth to help them realize their untapped potential.
You should know that when it comes to helping pickleball players over 50 live their best lives on and off the courts, I'm an expert. Good pickleball is not just technique; it's the mind and body working holistically. That's why I'm also a personal trainer and weight management specialist. When I’m chillin', you'll find me watching Star Trek with my husband John and our two fur babies, Shirley and Ralph. (Yes, Happy Days)
Tony
Hola. Hello. Konichiwa. After 40 years playing tennis, I am now a full-time pickleball player and professional. As a 5.0 rated Senior Pro Pickleball Player and an IPTPA-certified Master Teaching Professional, my focus is on helping players like you learn to play their best pickleball. In 2016, shortly after starting to play pickleball, my friend Tom and I jumped into the highest division at the first US Open in Naples, Florida. That morning it became clear just how much there is to learn in this seemingly simple sport – a lifetime of learning if you so choose. Since 2018, I have been on a mission to share my knowledge of pickleball so other players can enjoy the game at a higher level and attain their pickleball objectives. When not studying or playing pickleball, I like to travel with my other half, Jill.
*WeArePickleball Camp Guarantee
Just like every product that we offer, we are 100% confident that our camps will improve your game.
If you don't agree, we'll refund your camp entry fee. No Questions Asked.
The Details
In 2023 we are planning a limited number of camps.
We’ll be hosting three camps in Tampa in January and then later in the year in Lake Tahoe (dates TBD).
Tampa, FL-2023
January 4-5-6 Women's Camp
January 10-11-12
January 17-18-19
Incline Village, NV (Lake Tahoe)
May 31-June 1-2
June 6-7-8
June 12-13-14
Tampa FL
HCC Tennis Center
3901 W Tampa Bay Blvd
Tampa, FL 33614
Incline Village NV
Incline Tennis and Pickleball Center
964 Incline Way
Incline Village, NV 89451
3 day camps include-15 hours of instruction. 4 hours on court time & 1 hour in the classroom daily.
Start Times
Tampa
8 AM - 1 PM
Incline Village
1 PM - 6 PM
There is an 8:1 student to head pro ratio.
The small sessions are designed to provide maximum interaction between each player and both CJ and Tony.
This camp is not just about drills because we teach you so much more than shot mechanics.
Each day you will have a session of coached play where CJ and Tony will walk you through the game, sharing with you how to see the game and improve not just your shots but your shot IQ.
There will also be sessions where CJ and Tony join you on the court to help you understand best practices for executing the the pillars.
These sessions are designed to help you apply the strategies discussed during the camp.
We use small, locally-based businesses to provide lunch daily. This gives players the chance to sample the local cuisine.
Most of the restaurants we use are able to accommodate basic dietary restrictions, but if you have a food intolerance, it would be best to bring your own meal.
Lunch at the Incline Village Camps will be served later in the afternoon. Please arrive at the camp ready to take the court.
There will be water on site to fill your container.
We also provide courts, balls, WeArePickleball Camp Workbook, unparalleled instruction, positive energy, smiles, and a fun experience.
Paddle, shoes, sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, towel, an open mind, and a willingness to learn and work hard during our time together.
It is not necessary to bring chairs to the Tampa or Incline Village locations.
We'll be scheduling a pre-camp zoom call around 4 weeks prior to the camp.
They'll be one call for all camps in one location. We'll give you a chance to meet some of your fellow attendees, gain a great understanding of the camp format and ask questions.
Details will be sent via email. Please add CJandTony@wearepickleball.com to your contact list so these emails don't end up in your spam folder
Tahoe is CJ's home so we're able to provide you with a few additional details about the area.
The courts are located at the Incline Village Tennis and Pickleball Center, 964 Incline Way, Incline Village NV. 89451
Maps of the area and airports other than Reno, NV
Lodging on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe
- The Tennis and Pickleball Center is walking distance from the Hyatt Regency and the Hyatt Residence Club Lake Tahoe.
- Incline Village has a limited number of hotels but numerous vacation rentals through sites such as Airbnb and VRBO.
- Tahoe Vista is on Hwy 28 and about a 10 minute drive. There are several nice hotels in Tahoe Vista often with competitive rates.
- Tahoe City is on Hwy 28 about 30 minutes.
- Northstar ski resort is on Hwy 267 between Incline Village and Truckee and is about 20 minutes.
- Truckee CA is on Hwy 267 and Interstate 80 about 30 minutes from Incline Village and 50 minutes from the Reno Airport.
Lodging on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
- South Lake Tahoe is approximately 45 minutes from Incline Village. There are 4 major casinos in South Lake with ample lodging: Harrah’s, Hard Rock, Mountblu and Harveys.
Weather:
Incline Village is located at 6200 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Mornings and evenings will be cool.
We’ve chosen this location during an optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don’t anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as COVID, or weather-imposed restrictions. If you have any concerns, we suggest you purchase travel insurance to cover any non-camp-related expenses.
Tampa is Tony's home so we are able to provide you with a few additional details about the area
The camps are conducted at the
HCC Tennis & Pickleball Center
3901 W. Tampa Bay Blvd
Tampa, FL 33614
The courts are located at Hillsborough Community College towards the back (NE corner) of the main campus on Dale Mabry. They are across from Raymond James Stadium and South of the New York Yankees Spring Training Stadium.
There are restrooms and limited locker rooms at the camp facilities. There is water available, but if you are sensitive to water taste, we recommend you bring your own water.
You will be required by the facility to sign a waiver to participate in the camps. You will receive an email where you can do it online. If you do not complete it before the first day of camp, you will need to complete it at the facility.
Getting to Tampa
The easiest way to get to Tampa is through flights in and out of Tampa International Airport. The airport is only 10 minutes from the camp location. You can also come by train or car – your choice.
Lodging
There are numerous hotels in the area. Near the camp are the following (all of these are approximately 10 minutes from the camp):
- Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel
- Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Airport Avion Park Westshore
- Home 2 Suites by Hilton Tampa Westshore Airport
- Hyatt Place Tampa Airport/Westshore
- AC Hotel by Marriott Tampa Airport
- Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore
- Aloft Tampa Midtown
- Courtyard Tampa Westshore/Airport
If you are looking for a beach experience, you can stay at Clearwater or St. Pete beach (there are plenty of other smaller beach communities in between the two as well). You can also opt to stay in the Dunedin area if you want to experience small-town Florida charm while you are in the area. Ybor City is another interesting area with a historical flavor to it.
Things to Do
The Tampa Bay area is known for its beaches and water activities: sailing, fishing, dolphin viewing, manatees, kayaking, you name it. A canoe or kayak trip down the Hillsborough River is a great experience.
You can visit Busch Gardens for roller coasters and a Jeep safari. If you like art, the Dali museum is in St. Petersburg. You can also visit the Chihuly Art Gallery while in St. Petersburg.
The Tampa Riverwalk is a fairly recent addition and is worth the visit – you can stop at Armature Works for some food and, perhaps, even entertainment. The Channelside District has an open-concept eating area, and you can visit the Florida Aquarium.
There are plenty of other things to do in the Tampa Bay area. You can find these in Tripadvisor.
Eating
There are plenty of good restaurants in the area. A few notable ones are Ulele, Bern’s Steakhouse (the dessert room alone is worth it), and the Columbia Restaurant (can check out the flamenco show while there).
Right down the road from the camps is Columbus Blvd, which features many Cuban and Spanish-style restaurants. You can also find plenty of Peruvian, Colombian, and Venezuelan fare on Armenia Avenue, not far from the camps. Some food choices include Happy Fish (Peruvian), La Pequeña Colombia, and Nico’s Arepas (Venezuelan).
If you want to try out a small Uruguayan steakhouse, you can visit Renzo’s on Kennedy. For Ramen we like Dosunco, also on Kennedy. For breakfast you can find several Cuban bakeries in the area where you can get a Café con Leche and pastry or toast.
We also have several local breweries (Seventh Sun, Big Storm, Cigar City, and Coppertail Brewing, among many more).
Weather
Tampa Bay is generally warm to mild weather. There may be some cold in the morning or evenings, but generally not so during the day once the sun peaks out.
Conditions Outside Our Control
We’ve chosen this location during an optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don’t anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as COVID, or weather-imposed restrictions. If you have any concerns, we suggest you purchase travel insurance to cover any non-camp-related expenses.
We’ve chosen these locations during an optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don’t anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as COVID, or weather-imposed restrictions. If you have any concerns, we suggest you purchase travel insurance to cover any non-camp related expenses.
You are considered registered for the camp once we have received all information and payment has been made.
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 61 days prior to the first day of camp, you will receive a refund, less an $85 administration fee.
If you cancel less than 61 days prior to the camp: (a) AND we are able to refill your spot, you will receive a refund, less a $125 administration fee, or (b) If we are unable to fill your spot, we will issue a credit applicable to a future camp, less the $125 administration fee. Camp credits expire within 12 months of the start date of the scheduled camp.
We chose locations during the optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather and conditions. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don’t anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as facility issues, COVID, or weather-imposed restrictions.
Refunds are for camp fees only, not travel-related expenses. If you have any concerns, we suggest you purchase travel insurance to cover any non-camp-related expenses.
Your game improvement and satisfaction are of paramount importance to CJ and Tony.
If you take a WeArePickleball Camp and don't believe that your learning experience was worth the price paid for the camp, tell us. Like all other WeArePickleball products, we'll refund your entry fee.
Travel and related expenses are not part of the WeArePickleball Guarantee
From The Wildwood Independent
by Margee Lopez
I recently had the good fortune to attend a three-day-long pickleball camp in Incline Village, NV hosted by two fabulous coaches with VIPickleball. From the enthusiasm and energy displayed by CJ and Tony, one would never guess that we were the third group in under ten days to benefit from this great experience. CJ and Tony started VIPickleball one year ago, streamlining it to be an online outreach for individuals interested in improving their game. They have some novel techniques and approaches which I will share as I describe my camp experience.
Howard L.
Recently I had the opportunity to attend CJ Johnson and Tony Roig's WeArePickleball camp. The knowledge and experience gained was (and is) well worth the time and money. In the past I have attended camps for other sports and hobbies, and this one was one of the best! The knowledge and takeaway improvement was by far the best.
The camp was not about playing game after game or doing the same shot for hours at a time. The camp did work on mechanics, in that CJ and Tony provided insights into how players could improve by making small changes at a time. The strategy sessions were excellent in the way they were presented. I intend on using the same method for myself and 3 friends who are sincere about improving their performance.
The venue they chose was top-notch. Excellent courts, good area, location, and parking.
If you truly want to be a better player, attending one of Tony and CJ's camps should be very high on your priority list.
Frequently Asked Questions
The camp is most suitable for players from 2.5 up to a 4.5.
New players are welcome, but these are not beginner camps. Ideally, players should have played pickleball for at least 6 months and have a basic understanding of the game.
Our focus will be on mechanical stroke and game strategy fundamentals.
The objective is that a player mastering these skills will have the tools to play at a benchmark 4.0 level and beyond.
New players are welcome, but these are not beginner camps. Ideally, players should have played pickleball for at least 6 months and have a basic understanding of the game.
We’ve found that it’s better to learn the correct habits from the beginning than unlearn bad habits. When you understand the strategies and concepts, you’ll make real progress and won’t get distracted by all the bad information online and on the courts.
As to ability, our camps are perfect for players from 2.5 to 4.0/4.5. One of the reasons we keep the camp sizes small is so that we can personalize the experience for each participant. We customize the camp as much as possible so that each player can continue improving.
That said, we cover the basics. Pickleball is a game of fundamentals. Nothing particularly fancy. Just executing better than your opponent over and over. We spend the majority of our time on the first four shots of the game.
Don't pass up this experience because you don't think you are good enough. If you can play a game and understand the basics of scoring and rules, YOU ARE READY!
If you have more specific ability questions, email us at camps@wearepickleball.com
It is hard to say 100%. We're sure there are concepts that we will cover that are different than how you may be seeing the game. These concepts will expand your view of playing pickleball, constructing rallies, etc.
That said, we also cover the basics. Pickleball is a game of fundamentals. Nothing particularly fancy. Just executing better than your opponent over and over.
We've had several solid 4.0-4.5 players at our camps and they've always walked away with an expanded knowledge of the game and areas of focus to improve their play.
We customize the camp as much as possible so that each player can continue improving.
For example, when explaining the concept of where to hit a return of serve, it may sound one way to a 2.5-3.0 level player, and when working with the 4.0-4.5 player we give instruction appropriate for their level - threat identification and movement.
At a WeArePickleball camp, we use the Three Pillars of Pickleball to provide you with a complete picture of the game.
We are not a "ball feeding camp."
Yes, you will have plenty of time to hit shots but what's most important to your game is that you have a complete understanding of the framework of the game. Specifically, how to:
- change your technique.
- apply the correct strategies in real time.
- develop a mind/body connection essential to playing your best.
WeArePickleball camp's small intimate class size is designed to give you time to interact with both CJ and Tony and provide you with the instruction you need to improve as a player.
During the camp, we'll help you understand techniques and strategies and develop a plan to improve after the camp.
Yes and No.
Pickleball is a game of fundamentals. Nothing particularly fancy. Just executing better than your opponent over and over.
As an example, the return side is the most important strategic component of the game. In consequence, we will always begin teaching strategic focus on the return side.
So No. The core curriculum of the camp (or any of the things we teach in WeArePickleball) remains consistent.
What changes is where you are as a player and how you absorb that information.
Going back to the ROS example, a player may attend their first camp, and once they understand the importance of ROS, they learn to hit the shot consistently deep, giving them enough time to get to the NVZ.
When they return for a second, third, or fourth time, their game is in a different place, and we can provide additional information appropriate to their increased skill. In the case of the ROS, we may talk about threat identification or movement.
So Yes. The camp is different because you are different as a player and will hear the information appropriate to your new skill set.
Our previous Camps have included new players (who started playing 6 months before camp) up to seasoned 4.5 players – all in the same camp. Here are a few examples of how they each benefited from their Camp experience:
- Both players learned how to improve their footwork – this is a skill that helps you play better regardless of your incoming level of play and something that almost no players have any experience with.
- Both players learned constructive techniques to determine the effectiveness of their play. The results sought might be different for each player (“hit a deep return” for the beginner vs. “pinned the serve team back with my fourth shots” for the 4.5 player), but the framework for determining their success is the same.
- The new player learned the importance of getting up to the NVZ line (this is something that the 4.5 player already knew).
- The 4.5 player learned techniques to better maintain the advantage of the return team (improving the defensive play of the 4.5 player).
Even though the skills and concepts are consistent, each player takes from them what they need to improve based on where they are in the game.
Rather than catering to a certain level, the key is that each player leaves Camp with the tools needed to continue their growth.
Your game improvement and satisfaction are of paramount importance to CJ and Tony.
If you take a WeArePickleball Camp and don't believe that your learning experience was worth the price paid for the camp, tell us. Like all other WeArePickleball products, we'll refund your camp tuition.
Travel costs and associated camp expenses are not included in the WeArePickleball Guarantee.
WeArePickleball camps cost $799.
That includes three days of instruction, 15 total hours, a WeArePickleball Camp workbook, and lunch daily.
More questions??
Email us at camps@wearepickleball.com