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!
Coaching Rates
Allie Kostyniuk is a high-level pickleball player and coach, proudly operating under AK Pickleball. With over 7 years of playing experience and 3 years of coaching, Allie competes at the 5.0 level and has participated in multiple professional events, including two PPA tournaments where she faced off against some of the top players in the world.
Her competitive accomplishments include a Top 10 finish in the PPA Las Vegas Bonus Draw Women’s Doubles, a Provincial Silver Medal, a National Bronze Medal, and a NAPP Women’s Doubles Bronze Medal—highlighting her consistency and ability to perform at an elite level.
Beyond competing, Allie has coached over 300+ students, helping players of all levels (Beginners up to 5.0) elevate their game with a focus on strategy, confidence, and technical development. Known for her energy, experience, and results-driven coaching style, she is widely recognized as one of the top and most experienced pickleball coaches in Alberta.
Allie’s rates are
NB: She does not offer 3-on-1 lessons.
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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Christian has shown great dedication in educating and training people for over 35 years. He served with the Department of National Defense for 25 years and spent 16 years with the City of Edmonton Fire and Rescue.
During his military career, he led a national firefighter team in the combat challenge as a coach and team member, where he led the team to regional, national, and world games, setting a world record in his division.
In the last 3 years, Christian has dedicated himself to earning a 4.0 DUPR, qualifying as a National Canadian Coaching Program coach for pickleball, and a Certified Rating Specialist 4 (CRS) with the IPTPA (International Pickleball Teaching Professional). With his commitment, love of the sport, and experience, Christian would be a good fit to help you improve your skills and pickleball IQ.
Coaching Rates
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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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.
Coaching Rates:
