Pickleball Director
Russell was born in New Jersey and grew up in Scottsdale, AZ. Russell was a D1 Long Distance Swimmer at Grand Canyon University. Russ has worked for Marriott & Disney before being the Director of Pickleball at the DC Ranch Village Health Clubs & Spas. Russell also has been the Head Coach for Chaparral High School Swim and Dive since 2016. Russ was taught Pickleball through Jim Krimbill who is a USTPA Master Professional. Jim and Russell work alongside each other on their social media pages AZ_Pickleball to educate members and online followers on how to improve their game. Russell is a 5.0 + Pickleball player who participates in many local Arizona Cash Tournaments. He has played numerous Pro Qualifiers on the PPA Tour. Russ loves pickleball with high energy and teaches with beliefs of the proper fundamental strokes along with working hard through drilling and playing to enhance members games at the beautiful 12 court DC Ranch Village Pickleball & Tennis Center.
Pickleball Pro
Gunnar was born and raised in Perham, Minnesota. He grew up with a love for tennis, discovered a passion for pickleball, and quickly became a successful competitor. As a Head Boys Tennis coach, he helped lead his high school tennis players to qualify for the state tournament multiple times, the first-ever qualifications in program history. He also launched and coached a popular pickleball practice league in his hometown. Gunnar is passionate about consistency and hard work, and insists that everyone can improve, regardless of age or experience. His coaching philosophy goes beyond technique, and he believes in helping players find their rhythm, build confidence, and develop a true love for the game no matter what level they are at. He strives to make learning fun, goal-driven, and personalized for every student. He’s excited to share his passion and contribute to the fast-growing, and fun sport of pickleball.
