John Gill in his martial arts uniform
Pickleball · Martial arts · Leadership

John Gill
Built for impact.

A lifetime in movement, discipline and enterprise—bringing the worlds of pickleball and martial arts into sharper focus.

Television
Radio
Podcasts
Press

The story

Two arenas.
One drive.

John Gill works at the intersection of competitive sport, practical self-defence and global event development.

From the discipline of martial arts to the momentum of modern pickleball, John brings an experienced voice to conversations about performance, participation, leadership and the future of sport.

01

Sports enterprise

02

Player development

03

Media commentary

Connected ventures

Where the work lives.

Explore John’s dedicated platforms for international pickleball and practical self-defence.

Temporary image for World Pickleball Tournaments
World Pickleball Association logo
Global competition

World Pickleball Tournaments

A dedicated destination for tournaments, events and the expanding international pickleball community.

Visit website
Temporary image for Australian School of Self Defence
Australian School of Self Defence logo
Training & confidence

Australian School of Self Defence

Practical martial arts and personal-protection training built around awareness, skill and confidence.

Visit website

Championships & honours

On the podium.

A rolling snapshot of John’s medal, championship and Hall of Fame moments across pickleball and martial arts.

John Gill smiling with five medals, a pickleball paddle and a tennis racket in front of a sponsor banner
TENNIS

Five medals — multi-event champion

John Gill giving a thumbs-up while holding a Joola paddle and wearing a PPA Newport Beach 2024 medal
Pickleball

PPA Newport Beach 2024

John Gill in a suit pointing at a signed U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame banner, Long Beach, July 2023
Martial Arts

U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame, 2023

Two martial artists wearing large gold medals in front of a Winter Internationals championship banner
Martial Arts

Winter Internationals — 1st place

Three martial artists posing with a certificate and plaque in front of Korea Moohak-Kwan Hapkido banners
Martial Arts

Korea Moohak-Kwan Hapkido recognition

Master John Gill holding two World Championship award plaques in front of a USA World Championships banner
Martial Arts

World Championship plaques

John Gill displaying a USA Winter Nationals National Champion plaque and two large gold medals
Martial Arts

USA Winter Nationals — National Champion

Two pickleball champions in World Pickleball Association shirts holding paddles and medals, gesturing number one on the court
Pickleball

First-place duo — World Pickleball Association

Pickleball champion giving a thumbs-up with a medal and paddle in front of a sponsor media wall
Pickleball

Champion — sponsor wall finish

Martial artist in a black uniform holding a large trophy and wearing a championship belt in front of a USA World Championships banner
Martial Arts

USA World Championships — world title

Three pickleball medalists posing with paddles under the stadium lights in front of a GemLife Pickleball banner
Pickleball

Night podium — GemLife Pickleball

Master John Gill wearing the USA World Champion belt, holding a USA World Championships plaque and trophy
Martial Arts

29th World Title

John Gill smiling with five medals, a pickleball paddle and a tennis racket in front of a sponsor banner
TENNIS

Five medals — multi-event champion

John Gill giving a thumbs-up while holding a Joola paddle and wearing a PPA Newport Beach 2024 medal
Pickleball

PPA Newport Beach 2024

John Gill in a suit pointing at a signed U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame banner, Long Beach, July 2023
Martial Arts

U.S.A. Martial Arts Hall of Fame, 2023

Two martial artists wearing large gold medals in front of a Winter Internationals championship banner
Martial Arts

Winter Internationals — 1st place

Three martial artists posing with a certificate and plaque in front of Korea Moohak-Kwan Hapkido banners
Martial Arts

Korea Moohak-Kwan Hapkido recognition

Master John Gill holding two World Championship award plaques in front of a USA World Championships banner
Martial Arts

World Championship plaques

John Gill displaying a USA Winter Nationals National Champion plaque and two large gold medals
Martial Arts

USA Winter Nationals — National Champion

Two pickleball champions in World Pickleball Association shirts holding paddles and medals, gesturing number one on the court
Pickleball

First-place duo — World Pickleball Association

Pickleball champion giving a thumbs-up with a medal and paddle in front of a sponsor media wall
Pickleball

Champion — sponsor wall finish

Martial artist in a black uniform holding a large trophy and wearing a championship belt in front of a USA World Championships banner
Martial Arts

USA World Championships — world title

Three pickleball medalists posing with paddles under the stadium lights in front of a GemLife Pickleball banner
Pickleball

Night podium — GemLife Pickleball

Master John Gill wearing the USA World Champion belt, holding a USA World Championships plaque and trophy
Martial Arts

29th World Title

Media desk

Watch. Listen. Read.

For producers & editors

Need John’s press kit?

Approved biographies, high-resolution photography and speaking topics will be available here when the official media pack is supplied.

Featured coverage

In the media.

A snapshot of John’s interviews, podcast appearances and press features across television, radio and print.

Interviews & shows

John Gill featured on an STV interview titled The Future of Pickleball
Interview

STV · WPA × MMA

The Future of Pickleball

John Gill sits down for a broadcast conversation on where the sport is heading next.

John Gill on The Tony D’Urso Show — From Passion to Powerplay
Podcast

The Tony D’Urso Show

Building a Movement

From passion to powerplay — John’s long-form interview on building a global pickleball enterprise.

John Gill in athletic wear between two presenters on a television studio set
TV

On Set

Live Studio Segment

John Gill joins two presenters on a bright daytime studio set for a live on-camera segment.

Press & articles

Community newsletter feature — From Seal Beach Pickleball to the 2032 Australian Olympic Games, by John Gill and George Banker
Article

Community Content

Seal Beach to the 2032 Olympics

A community feature co-authored by John Gill and George Banker on pickleball’s Olympic road.

Del Norte Triplicate newspaper feature — John Gill: From Local Courts to the Olympics, January 8 2026
Press

Del Norte Triplicate

From Local Courts to the Olympics

A print feature profiling John’s journey from local courts toward the Olympic stage.

Newspaper article titled Martial arts to movies featuring John Gill performing a high kick
Article

Chatswood

Martial Arts to Movies

A December 2016 feature on John winning an action-star competition and pursuing his acting ambitions.

Orange County News front page headed Eyes on the Olympics showing John Gill on a pickleball court and in martial arts gear
Press

Orange County News

Eyes on the Olympics

A May 2024 front-page feature in the Garden Grove edition of Orange County News on John’s Olympic push for pickleball.

Westminster Herald Journal article about editor Brady Rhoades taking a pickleball lesson with John Gill
Article

Westminster Herald Journal

Editor Makes Small Strides After First Pickleball Lesson

Editor Brady Rhoades reflects on John’s detailed coaching after a pickleball lesson at La Mirada Regional Park.

Media booking

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into the story.

For television, podcast, radio, press and event inquiries, share your brief and proposed timing.

TV and broadcast interviews

Podcast guest appearances

Press commentary

Speaking and event inquiries

Inquiries go straight to John’s booking inbox.

Student stories

Coached. Changed. Confident.

Real words from players who trained with John—from first-time lessons to long-term coaching partnerships.

70
Testimonials
37
Verified
200+
Lessons
★★★★★
“I just finished a series of 10 lessons with John. My overall game has improved a lot. John corrected many aspects of my game and focused on strategy and shot selection. He also videoed me playing so I could review what I had learned. He also played with me against other players and corrected my game 'live' while playing. He's a great coach for all levels. If you are starting Pickleball consider lessons before you start to ensure you are learning proper techniques and strategies. John is a gem!”

Ron M.

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Before I knew it all my friends were playing Pickleball and were asking me to join them. I knew I'd be a flounder if I just went out with them and tried to play. I sought out John and it was a great decision. He taught me the basics and continued to reinforce those through the 10 lessons as I progressed in refining and improving my game. John is a terrific pro and shares his expertise skillfully. It was fun taking lessons with John and I know it made my learning curve shorter.”

Jessica A.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John is an amazing instructor who has taken me from beginner to intermediate very quickly. He is patient and attentive and adjusts his teaching style to suit the situation at hand. I had my first pickle during a game after not making traction for months! Hands down recommend John!!!”

Sam B.

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is a fantastic trainer! I have learned more in three lessons with him than in 4 months of other trainers and running drills. He is patient, enthusiastic, highly skilled and always punctual! Do not hesitate to hire John if you want to elevate your game!”

Jennifer M.

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John was on time, professional, and taught me more in the first 15 minutes than I'd learned in 6 group classes!! Thanks John.”

Kathy

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I learned more in one session with John than in two months with other trainers. Can't wait for the next session!”

Michellena L.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John was amazing! He changed my game in the first lesson. I left the lesson encouraged and with a new confidence. He is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I can't wait for my lesson next week.”

Sebastian L.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I started my lessons with John Gill as a complete novice. John was knowledgeable, patient, and energetic. His passion for pickleball is contagious. After ten lessons, I feel confident enough to play against others and not feel like a beginner. I've gone from watching shows on Bravo to watching pickleball videos on Instagram; that is progress. I highly recommend John for your pickleball learning needs.”

Peter

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I set up lessons to learn PICKLEBALL after going to play PICKLEBALL with beginners. I needed to learn more about playing the sport since I was not a tennis player. I had lessons by John. He helped me to play better besides understanding the game better too. I highly recommend taking lessons. It kept me from developing bad habits I would have to break. I highly recommend John to be your teacher. He explains what he's teaching you and has you work on it and helps you improve your technique. He is very friendly, informative and patient. I plan to attend groups he is working with presently and as I get better, play in a tournament.”

Suzanne B.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John is an outstanding pickleball instructor. His patient and enthusiastic teaching style made learning the game a joy. His attention to detail, dedication, and ability to create a fun learning environment set him apart. Thanks to him, I've improved significantly and developed a deep love for pickleball. Highly recommend John as your coach!”

Pete C.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“A terrific instructor. From strategy to strokes the lessons were well rounded. Lots of ball contact with little down time. Very easy to talk to and has numerous tricks and suggestions that are practical. Thoroughly enjoyed the lessons and he has me hooked on the game!!!”

Edlyn R.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Excellent coach! His passion and knowledge of the game is unmatched. He takes the time to work on court strategy, positioning, footwork, doubles strategy and a lot more than I can fit here. I spent A LOT of time to find the right coach and I'm so glad I found John.”

Christina D.

Verified

INTERMEDIATE • 5 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is an excellent teacher who is able to break down the techniques in a way that is easy to understand. Plus, he is a lot of fun to work with and I left the lesson feeling excited to keep practicing!”

Brenda B.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John Gill is an excellent coach. He breaks down your pickleball game into manageable chunks so that you immediately improve. Very professional yet fun. I highly recommend John.”

Todd Anderson

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John not only shows you what to do but explains why you should do it. I highly recommend him to learn the right way to play pickleball.”

Kevin S.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I was looking for a crash course on pickleball. I'm not much of a racket sports player, but am a lifelong athlete. John was able to translate my baseball experience really well into pickleball, and I'm ready to start working more on my own!”

Cindy C.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John was really great! Very patient instructor. Great carbon paddles. Gave us a great all around knowledge of game, rules, strategy and play. Looking forward to next lesson.”

Paul L.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John is a fantastic instructor and is good with his easy to remember tips and instructions. It is well worth the investment to learn pickleball from a certified instructor like John.”

Lisa P.

Verified

6 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John was a terrific instructor. Not only did he communicate well and is a really nice guy, but he gave us many ways to remember the fundamentals which as beginners is invaluable. We were from out of the area so we can't take advantage of more lessons — but it was a great experience and we highly recommend John!”

Gary

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John makes things make sense. Great communication and demonstration of technique. Looking for a lesson? Be sure to give John a try!”

Cindy Hopkins

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“excellent pickleball coach — providing valuable advice on technique, positioning and the different stroke types and how to improve quickly”

Nancy F.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Wow! What a fun game! This was our first time playing pickleball and what an honor it was to learn from a pro like John! His upbeat and encouraging teaching style made this lesson very fun while also informative. I'd highly recommend anyone who plays to take a lesson from John.”

Marty D.

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John Gill, is an excellent instructor. I just had my first lesson with John (I have never played pickleball before and I am 62 yrs old) he made the lesson very enjoyable and you learn a lot about the game and you can see that he enjoys teaching you how to play pickleball and he loves the game. He's a good 'MATE'”

Claudio A.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Johns pickleball lessons are top-notch! I have taken lessons with him for a few months now and have seen significant improvement in my game. He is patient, knowledgeable, and has a great sense of humor. I always leave the lesson feeling energized and motivated to continue practicing.”

Amber B.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John Gill has a natural gift of connecting with people straight away in a very relatable way. He is also a fantastic and patient teacher and I consider myself fortunate to have crossed paths with him as a coach!”

Andrew

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John brings such positive energy to every lesson. I have so enjoyed improving my technique and strategy under his guidance!”

Christina D.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I've taken a few lessons with John now and I've enjoyed every one of them! I've learned so much and really appreciate how easy he is to work with and how passionate he is about pickleball.”

Rachel

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John Gill is a top level instructor. I am a beginner, and he showed me techniques that helped me improve immensely in a few lessons. I've already played my first pickleball game, and I had a blast.”

Priscilla R.

Verified

BEGINNER • 4 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John was excellent! We were first timers and he coached us through the correct way to hit and volley. We were able to play several games that same day and had a blast. Thank you.”

Suzanne B.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I enjoyed a fantastic lesson that gave me thorough insights to the game so that I am able to practice on my own. I will take this lesson to help me find great joy in playing the game with friends and family, and in an upcoming charity tournament!”

Peter

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John was very engaging, excellent focus on teaching form, and he made our first time with pickleball so much fun!”

Eric D.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“My second one on one lesson was great! John is very knowledgeable and encouraging. I'm not a natural athlete at all but I really want to improve my game and gain confidence and John is truly helping me.”

Kelly S.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John was so kind and informative! My husband and I took a class together with him while we were in town for vacation. If we didn't live in TX, we would definitely be taking weekly lessons with him!”

Linda M.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Outstanding! Clear instructions and encouragement!”

Keni C.

Verified

25 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Amazing lesson. John is the best and brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Highly recommend!”

Brenda B.

Verified

14 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Great instructor. Very patient. Can't wait for next class!”

Marita N.

Verified

11 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is an outstanding coach!”

Suzanne B.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is very knowledgeable and helpful. He's also fun to work with and pickleball should be fun.”

Brenda B.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Thanks John. I learned a ton and had a blast!”

Cindy H.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“jon is great my game skills really increased from my lessons”

Julie Z.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“We had a great time! John is an excellent instructor! Truly thankful to be taught by a pro. And he is. Professional! So patient and encouraging; everything you'd want in a coach. Highly recommend!”

Brenda B.

4 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Had my first lesson with John today! It was fantastic. I told him what I have been struggling with and we worked on just that. I can already notice the improvement after just one lesson. Can't wait for the next one!!”

Dave

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“This was my first lesson with John and he's already improved my game so much! I highly recommend taking a lesson with him he has so much to teach! Thanks again John can't wait to see you again.”

Christian J.

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Had three lessons with John and we had some logistics issues with the first lesson, but second and third were very smooth. He is a really great coach and enjoyed my lessons and got a lot out of them.”

Kylie B.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is very knowledgeable and passionate about pickleball. Can't wait for our next lesson.”

Brenda B.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Great first lesson. John was excellent at explaining various techniques and when and how to use them. Looking forward to our next lesson.”

Elaine M.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John is a very good coach. I appreciate his approach and flexibility w my limited experience. It is good to be coached by an accomplished player.”

Knut R.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Lesson was great. It was wonderful. I learned a ton. Was impressed with his knowledge and his skills.”

Maxime G.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John is knowledgeable, patient, and extremely easy to work with. Excellent instructor.”

Matthew T.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John was wonderful. He taught me so much in our time together. Highly recommend.”

Julie Z.

Verified

INTERMEDIATE • 1 LESSON

★★★★★
“John has been such a big help!”

Luke

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“I saw John today and he was absolutely 100% amazing! I will definitely be sticking with him.”

Justin Yeh / Lois Yeh

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Very professional and made me feel comfortable.”

Kim L.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“So much fun and such a positive and encouraging attitude.”

Jennifer H.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Outstanding instructor and I would highly recommend John!”

Jeff G.

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Good lesson. Great information that will help a lot.”

Jeff D.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“I'm getting better. Thank you John!”

Keni C.

Verified

25 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Great lessons, I learned a lot!”

Jennifer H.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John was absolutely fantastic.”

Julie Zimmerer

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Knowledgeable fun coach!”

Carmen L.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Jon is very helpful.”

Joe P.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Love my instructor.”

Marita N.

Verified

11 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Great experience.”

Christa S.

Verified

3 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Fantastic lesson.”

Linda M.

Verified

BEGINNER • 4 LESSONS

★★★★★
“John is great!”

Julie Z.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Very helpful.”

William S.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Great teacher.”

Erin Shiba

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Excellent!”

Jim S.

Verified

1 LESSON

★★★★★
“Thx John.”

Cindy H.

Verified

10 LESSONS

★★★★★
“Great.”

Natalie M.

Verified

3 LESSONS