We want you to have the best experience at YEG Pickleball which is why we’ve brought in the best pros and coaches to teach, train, and level you up! Our team has a wealth of competitive pickleball experience and are ready to help you take your game up a notch (or two!)
Say hello to Declan Hickling, our Coach at YEG Pickleball!
With over 20 years of both playing and coaching hockey, Declan has been a sports enthusiast since the very beginning. And, when he was introduced to pickleball two years ago, he completely fell in love with the game.
As of May 2025, Declan has received his Certificate of Completion for the IPTPA Level 1 Program. This is an internationally recognized program that certifies pickleball coaches across the globe.
Since then, he’s been on the courts every week playing with other well-known picklers in Edmonton and improving his game. We’re excited to bring Declan to YEG Pickleball to coach alongside our team!
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Joel Pelletier is one of Canada’s rising names in professional pickleball, known for his powerful play, strategic mindset, and dedication to growing the sport.
Over the past five years, Joel has rapidly built an impressive competitive resume. In 2023, he earned a silver medal at the Canadian Nationals in the Men’s Open division, captured gold at the Canadian Western Regionals, and added multiple provincial gold medals to his achievements. That same year, he was drafted 16th overall into the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL), where he quickly established himself as a reliable and dynamic player. By 2024, Joel was among the league’s top performers, boasting one of the highest win percentages in doubles play. In 2025, he was drafted with the 6th overall pick by the Northern Lights, solidifying his status as a sought-after professional.
Beyond competition, Joel is a dedicated coach and mentor. Based in Red Deer, Alberta, he works with players of all levels to develop their skills, focusing on technique, movement, and strategic awareness. His coaching philosophy is built on empowering athletes to understand the ‘why’ behind every shot, helping them grow both mentally and physically as players.
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Taylor discovered pickleball two years ago and instantly fell in love with the game. What started as a fun challenge to outplay family members has grown into a real passion. Taylor has always been active, with experience coaching in the boxing community and playing SpikeBall, but nothing has stuck quite like pickleball.
As of May 2025, Taylor has received her Certificate of Completion for the IPTPA Level 1 Program. This is an internationally recognized program that certifies pickleball coaches across the globe.
When not on the court, Taylor works as a pediatric nurse, helping kids and making a difference in their lives. This love for helping others shows in Taylor’s coaching too, with a focus on sharing skills and inspiring the next generation of players.
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Don Hickling is the founder of YEG Pickleball and a passionate ambassador for the sport in the Edmonton area. With years of coaching experience and a deep love for the game, Don has been instrumental in growing the pickleball community locally through programs, player development, and community outreach.
Don brings both technical expertise and a positive, encouraging approach to the court. His coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, strategy, and — most importantly — fun.
Through YEG Pickleball, Don’s mission is to make the sport accessible to everyone and to create a welcoming environment where players of all ages and skill levels can thrive.
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Darlene has been an avid pickleball lover since she joined a ‘come try pickleball’ event back in the spring of 2023. In just under two years, she’s earned her NCCP Level 1 Coaching Certification (January 2025) and sharpened her game on courts across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
A recent retiree from the corporate world, Darlene now spends more time doing what she loves most, playing, coaching, and helping grow the sport here at YEG Pickleball as our Business Development Specialist.
Off the court, she enjoys quality time with her husband, grown kids, and her tiny but mighty Yorkie, Millie. You might also spot her zipping through Edmonton on her Vespa.
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