Meet Your Coaches
COACH JACK B
NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach
Founder, 1UP Pickleball Club
Jack Buenaventura's journey with pickleball began just over two years ago, quickly evolving from a casual hobby into a full-blown passion that transformed his lifestyle. Now a key figure in the sport, Jack is the Founder of 1UP Pickleball Club.
Jack actively competes in tournaments across the city, earning multiple medals in various divisions during his first year on the competitive circuit. His relentless drive and enthusiasm for the sport continue to propel him forward, as he aims to elevate pickleball’s presence in the Greater Toronto Area.
Beyond playing, Jack is committed to developing players and expanding the sport’s reach. As the Director of Pickleball for NIKE Sports Camp Canda and Program Partner at Battle Arena Jack is shaping programs that cater to players of all skill levels. In April, Jack earned his Certified Coaching Certificate, with Coaching Association of Canada further solidifying his role as a leader in the pickleball community.
Jack’s vision for Pickleball Arena and the 1UP Pickleball Club is to establish it as the premier club for training, development, coaching, recreational and competitive play —a welcoming space where players of all backgrounds can enjoy the game and grow their skills. With his unwavering passion and commitment, Jack is helping to shape the future of pickleball in the region.
COACH MARK M.
NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach
15 Year Multi-Sport Veteran Coach
Mark brings over 15 years of coaching experience across basketball, volleyball, and now pickleball.
He discovered pickleball two years ago and instantly fell in love with the sport. Since then, he’s competed in 4.0+ level tournaments, earning multiple medals along the way. In 2024, Mark became NCCP Level 1 certified as a pickleball coach.
Mark played collegiate volleyball at Seneca College (2008–2009), where he took on multiple roles including middle, outside, and libero. He later joined the coaching staff at York University for the men’s volleyball team, specializing in passing and defense. He continues to stay active in the 9Man volleyball scene to this day.
A true multi-sport athlete, Mark also played basketball for three years in the Ontario Basketball Association. Beyond the court, he's been an avid skateboarder for over a decade—earning sponsorships along the way.
In his free time, Mark enjoys relaxing with his family, friends, and his dog, Londy.
COACH AMEET K.
NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach
Passionate Pickleball Competitor
Ameet is a certified NCCP Level 1 Pickleball Instructor with Pickleball Canada.
As a certified coach he has a passion for helping players unlock their full potential on the court. Ameet focuses on fundamentals, skill development and building strategy awareness while creating a fun and safe environment. His adaptive coaching style includes live demonstrations, practice with instruction and game play scenarios allowing the player to build confidence when on the court.
In addition to coaching, Ameet is a passionate competitor, regularly playing pickleball in competitive leagues and various venues across the city and internationally. Ameet continues to focus on improving his pickleball game by using local and online resources, drilling sessions and competitive games.
He also has years of experience with coaching and instruction across a wide variety of sports including softball and ultimate frisbee for all ages and has competed at the provincial level.
When not competing Ameet spends time with friends including those he met from the pickleball community or setting up a pickleball net and introducing the game to friends.
COACH CINDY N.
NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach
Pickleball Enthusiast • Fierce Competitor • Lifelong Learner
Cindy’s pickleball journey started as an accidental love story—what began as a quick recovery hobby from a forearm injury quickly turned into a full-blown obsession. With over 10 years of tennis experience behind her, she now lives and breathes pickleball, spending 5–6 days a week drilling, competing, and having the time of her life on the courts.
One of Cindy’s proudest accomplishments? Getting her kids and friends hooked on pickleball too! Now, her mission is bigger: to share the joy of the game with as many people as possible. As a certified NCCP Level 1 Instructor with Pickleball Canada, she specializes in building strong foundations, improving court awareness, and teaching smart strategies—always with hands-on demos, consistent feedback, and plenty of encouragement.
But make no mistake—Cindy isn’t just a coach, she’s also a fierce competitor. In her very first year of tournaments, she landed on the podium every single time, proving that her passion translates into performance. She loves mixing it up with different partners, testing her skills in all kinds of events, and is already setting her sights on becoming a certified pickleball referee to deepen her knowledge of the sport.
For Cindy, this journey is just getting started—and she’d love nothing more than to be part of yours too!
COACH WILL Q.
NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach
Pickleball & Fitness Advocate
Coach Will’s pickleball journey began just over a year ago at his local community center, where he picked up a paddle and immediately caught the pickleball bug. What started as a shared passion with his brother quickly turned competitive and the duo went on to medal in several tournaments.
Driven by his love for the game, Coach Will earned his NCCP Level 1 certification, a step he took to further promote the sport and its countless benefits to the broader community.
In addition to his success in doubles, Coach Will has developed a strong aptitude for singles play, a true reflection of his mental fortitude and competitive spirit. He brings this same intensity and focus to his coaching, where his mission goes beyond skill development. Coach Will is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and promoting health and wellness through pickleball, making the sport accessible and enjoyable for all. With a background in tennis and fitness, Will’s transition to pickleball was a natural one. His athletic foundation has proven invaluable and he uses his experience to help others improve their game. For Coach Will, pickleball has become more than just a game, it’s about creating an environment where players, no matter their skill level, feel connected, supported and energized by the game.
When he’s not on the courts or coaching, Coach Will can be found at the gym, conditioning both his body and mind. Whether it’s lifting weights or refining his mental toughness, Will’s dedication to fitness is just as strong as his passion for pickleball. And of course, he makes time to relax with his furbaby, his loyal companion off the courts.