Need Help? help@obsessedpickleballers.com

Or call us at (430) 297 1026

Need Help? help@obsessedpickleballers.com

Or call us at (430) 297 1026

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Obsessed Pickleballers Intermediate Camp In Albuquerque, NM

Where You Finally Become The Player You’ve Been Watching Others Be

Focused Classes

8:1 Ratio

Venue

The Picklr Albuquerque East – 45 Hotel Cir NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123

(INDOOR FACILITY)

Date & Time

Sunday, August 30, 2026
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Age

50 & over

Skill Level

3.0 - 3.5 (Intermediate) - Having a DUPR is not necessary

Pro Instructor

Coach Derek Thomas

🎁 Bonus #1:

The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball eBook ($47 value)

🎁 Bonus #2:

Obsessed Pickleballers Lifetime Community Membership ($360/year value)

🎁 Bonus #3:

That’s a surprise and you’ll get that after the camp

Hi, I'm Coach Derek Thomas – Your Guide To The Next Level

I’m a P4 Certified Coach who got introduced to pickleball on my wife’s recommendation. She bought me a paddle for my birthday, and I’ve been hooked ever since. 

Coming from nearly two decades of paddle sports coaching, the transition felt natural, but what surprised me was how quickly pickleball built a community around itself, and how much I wanted to be part of it. 

I’ve dedicated my coaching career to one mission: helping intermediate players elevate their game through smart technique and injury-conscious movement… especially players in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond.

What I Bring To Your Game:

  • P4 Certified Pickleball Coach
  • 20 years of overall coaching experience 
  • Hundreds of players coached across private lessons, clinics, and group sessions
  • Technique and injury prevention specialist — coaches with a keen eye for mechanics that protect the body and improve performance

My approach: My coaching style is focused on technique and injury prevention, because I believe the best way to keep playing is to play correctly. I bring a positive, engaging attitude to every court, every session, and every player I work with.

Whether you want to improve your fitness, develop your skills, compete in tournaments, improve your DUPR, or simply have more fun on the court… I’ll help you play with confidence and consistency while preventing injuries.

Players who train with me experience complete game transformations.

They win through intelligent positioning and shot selection, not exhausting power.

They understand the mental game.

They play multiple times a week with energy.

They build lasting friendships while improving their game together.

Your 4-hour transformation journey

Meet Your New Pickleball Crew

This isn’t a cold introduction. Within 5 minutes, you’ll know everyone’s names, where they play, and what they’re working on. You’ll exchange phone numbers right away, because connections matter.

  • Dynamic warm-up designed specifically for 50+ players

Focus: The two shots that set up every point

Progressive Serving Technique:

  • Flat, low-aggressive serve
  • Slice serve with movement
  • Topspin serve for depth
  • Principles: In, deep, and toward the non-dominant side
  • Serving Contest with targets, competitive and purposeful

Return Drill: Getting to net in one shot with proper balance, paddle positioning, and transition read

Focus: The shot that defines your rating

  • Third Shot Drop mechanics with target practice
  • Understanding when to drop vs. when to drive at the intermediate level
  • Decision-making framework: reading the return before you swing

BREAK (10 minutes)

Focus: Taking control at the net

High Volley Attack:

  • Drill forehand and backhand volleys repeatedly at match pace
  • Learn to put away high balls with confidence and consistency

Low Volleys & Touch: The Golden Circle method

  • Keep balls low, eliminate pop-ups that cost points
  • Half-volley control back into the kitchen

Transition Volleys: Low to high sequences

  • Half-volley, kill shot patterns
  • The crossing drill that prevents “cement feet” under pressure

Focus: Controlling the point from the NVZ

  • Straight-on and diagonal dinking with directional intent
  • Moving opponents and creating openings

Games:

  • Longest Rally Challenge
  • Dink placement contest, precision under competitive pressure

Advanced techniques:

  • Adding spin and variety to disrupt opponents
  • Recognizing the attackable ball and pulling the trigger

Focus: Executing under match pressure

  • Coach feeds aggressive balls at net players at match speed
  • Customized intensity based on skill level
  • Practice volley technique under real competitive pressure
  • Build reaction speed, composure, and confidence at the kitchen

Focus: Weapons that win points at the intermediate level

  • Offensive vs. Defensive lobs — reading the situation and committing
  • Reset shots: Neutralizing fast balls and regaining control of the rally
  • Roll and Flick: Adding deception and pace variation

Focus: Putting it all together under pressure

  • Games to 7 points, rotating partners

Coach feedback on:

  • Shot selection and decision-making
  • Court positioning and movement
  • Point construction and pattern recognition
  • Real-time corrections and strategic adjustments
  • SWOT Message: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
  • Drill assignments for continued improvement
  • Community access and next steps
  • Group photo + exchange of final contacts

Your 4-Hour Transformation Journey

I. Introduction & Warm-Up (15 minutes)

Meet Your New Pickleball Crew

This isn’t a cold introduction. Within 5 minutes, you’ll know everyone’s names, where they play, and what they’re working on. You’ll exchange phone numbers right away, because connections matter.

  • Dynamic warm-up designed specifically for 50+ players

II. The Foundation: Serving & Returns That Win Points (30 minutes)

Focus: The two shots that set up every point

Progressive Serving Technique:

  • Flat, low-aggressive serve
  • Slice serve with movement
  • Topspin serve for depth
  • Principles: In, deep, and toward the non-dominant side
  • Serving Contest with targets, competitive and purposeful

Return Drill: Getting to net in one shot with proper balance, paddle positioning, and transition read

III. Third Shot Mastery (30 minutes)

Focus: The shot that defines your rating

  • Third Shot Drop mechanics with target practice
  • Understanding when to drop vs. when to drive at the intermediate level
  • Decision-making framework: reading the return before you swing

BREAK (10 minutes)

IV. Volleys (30 minutes)

Focus: Taking control at the net

High Volley Attack:

  • Drill forehand and backhand volleys repeatedly at match pace
  • Learn to put away high balls with confidence and consistency

Low Volleys & Touch: The Golden Circle method

  • Keep balls low, eliminate pop-ups that cost points
  • Half-volley control back into the kitchen

Transition Volleys: Low to high sequences

  • Half-volley, kill shot patterns
  • The crossing drill that prevents “cement feet” under pressure

V. Dinking Excellence (25 minutes)

Focus: Controlling the point from the NVZ

  • Straight-on and diagonal dinking with directional intent
  • Moving opponents and creating openings

Games:

  • Longest Rally Challenge
  • Dink placement contest, precision under competitive pressure

Advanced techniques:

  • Adding spin and variety to disrupt opponents
  • Recognizing the attackable ball and pulling the trigger

VI. Speed Volleys (30 minutes)

Focus: Executing under match pressure

  • Coach feeds aggressive balls at net players at match speed
  • Customized intensity based on skill level
  • Practice volley technique under real competitive pressure
  • Build reaction speed, composure, and confidence at the kitchen

VII. Lobs, Resets & Advanced Shots (25 minutes)

Focus: Weapons that win points at the intermediate level

  • Offensive vs. Defensive lobs — reading the situation and committing
  • Reset shots: Neutralizing fast balls and regaining control of the rally
  • Roll and Flick: Adding deception and pace variation

VIII. Live Game Play & Application (35 minutes)

Focus: Putting it all together under pressure

  • Games to 7 points, rotating partners

Coach feedback on:

  • Shot selection and decision-making
  • Court positioning and movement
  • Point construction and pattern recognition
  • Real-time corrections and strategic adjustments

IX. Wrap-Up & Your Path Forward (10 minutes)

  • SWOT Message: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
  • Drill assignments for continued improvement
  • Community access and next steps
  • Group photo + exchange of final contacts

Why I'm Obsessed With DRILLING (AND WHY YOU WILL BE TOO)

Most intermediate camps spend too much time talking and not enough time executing.

I’m different.

Here’s my philosophy: Drilling = Transformation

You don’t get better by listening to lectures about the third shot drop. You get better by hitting third shot drops repeatedly while an experienced coach watches and guides your reps.

And here’s the truth about why I’m obsessed with drilling:

Because let’s be honest, we all love that moment when we implement something new and it actually WORKS, don’t we?

That moment when you adjust your paddle angle, and suddenly your third shot lands exactly where you want it.

That rush when you hit serves in a row to the same spot.

That feeling when your opponent fires a fast ball at you, and you put it away cleanly.

You don’t have to wait weeks to see if the coaching worked. You see it immediately. Right there on the court.

That’s why drilling is the heartbeat of this camp. Not because I think it’s good for you (though it is), but because it’s incredibly satisfying to watch yourself go from “I keep making that mistake” to “I just fixed it!” in a single afternoon.

Player Stories

See why 98% of our campers recommend this camp.

REMEMBER THE LAST TIME YOU WALKED OFF THE COURT FRUSTRATED?

You know that moment when you replay the match in your head…

…thinking about all the shots you should have made?

…watching players you know you should beat walk away with the win?

…feeling that gap between the player you are and the player you know you could be?

That feeling ends on August 30.

Because by the time you walk off the court, something fundamental will have changed. Your body will respond differently. Your mind will read the game differently. And the next time you play, your regular partners will immediately notice something has shifted.

IMAGINE THIS: It's Tuesday, September 1 (Two Days After Camp)

You walk onto your local court for your regular game.

As soon as you start warming up, your playing partners stop and stare.

“What happened to you?”

Your serves are landing deep and consistent, no more shanks, no more pop-ups. When they return, you’re already reading where the ball is going. Your third shot drop is pulling them out of position. At the kitchen line, you’re controlling rallies with patience and precision they’ve never seen from you before.

By the third game, they’re asking what you did. By the fifth game, they’re asking where you learned it. By the time you leave, they’re asking if you can teach them.

That’s the difference between who you are right now and who you’ll be after the camp.

And it all starts the moment you register, because the transformation begins before you even arrive.

WHAT YOU'LL ACTUALLY WALK AWAY WITH (The Real Outcomes)

You'll Dominate Points Without Exhausting Yourself

I’ll teach you how to control rallies through intelligent positioning and shot selection, not power. You’ll start winning more points while using less energy. This is especially important for us 50+ players: you’ll learn to play smarter, not harder.

You'll Meet Your New Playing Crew (And Stay Connected For Life)

I’ll connect you with other passionate players at your exact skill level. You’ll exchange numbers, join the Obsessed Pickleballers Community together, and stay permanently connected with everyone you meet.

You'll Know Exactly What To Do In Every Situation

I’ll eliminate the hesitation that’s been costing you points. Should you drive or drop? Your body knows. When do you move to the kitchen? You’re already moving. How do you handle the lob? You’re executing before you finish thinking about it.

You'll Stop Making The Same Mistakes That Have Been Holding You Back

I’ll help you identify the technical flaws that are currently limiting your game. When I show you exactly how to fix them, with a technique-first approach and a specialization in injury-conscious movement, the shots that used to frustrate you suddenly become your strengths.

Most players spend years fighting the same weaknesses. You’ll correct yours in a single afternoon.

You'll Reignite The Passion You Had When You First Discovered This Game

I’ll show you how good you can actually be. You’ll leave energized, excited, and already planning your next practice session.

Remember when you first fell in love with pickleball? When you couldn’t wait to play? If that feeling has been fading lately…

On August 30, it comes roaring back.

Because when you experience what it feels like to play at your true potential, when you finally break through that plateau, that’s when the obsession returns.

The Bonus Package That Keeps You Improving For Life

Most camps charge hefty prices and send you home with nothing but memories. We’re giving you a complete transformation system for life:

The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball
Bonus 01

The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball eBook

($47 value)

Written by Obsessed Pickleballers head coach Mark Ianni — it captures everything we teach on the court and then goes even deeper, so you always know what to work on next. With over 500 five-star reviews from players just like you, the book has helped a lot of beginners keep progressing to the next level.

Lifetime Community Membership
Bonus 02

Obsessed Pickleballers Community Membership

($360/year value)

Imagine having hundreds of players and coaches across the country in your corner, with weekly coaching, answers whenever you need them, and videos to keep improving with your new pickleball friends.

Weekly Live Coaching Sessions hosted by Mark himself, your camp friends join these sessions too, so you're learning together even after September 5.

Your 4-hour camp is just the beginning. Keep learning, keep playing, and wherever you travel, you'll have people to play with. Your camp crew just became a nationwide pickleball family.

Lifetime Community Membership
Bonus 03

It's a surprise

That's a SURPRISE! And a little hint: It's another perfect guide for women 50 and above.

🎁 Bonus#1 : The Perfect Guide To Acing Pickleball eBook ($47 value)

Written by Obsessed Pickleballers head coach Mark Ianni, it captures everything we teach on the court, and then goes even deeper, so you’re never guessing what to do next.

Here’s what’s inside:

  • Every pickleball concept explained in detail for 50+ players
  • Smart play strategies that win without exhausting you
  • Injury prevention techniques for sustainable play
  • Drill progressions you can work through with your new camp friends
  • Your roadmap from 3.0 to 3.5 to 4.0 and beyond

Over 500 five-star reviews from players just like you who use it as their ongoing playbook.

🎁 Bonus#2 : Obsessed Pickleballers Community Membership ($360/year value)

Imagine having access to hundreds of passionate players AND coaches from across the entire US.

Here’s what happens in the community:

  • Weekly Live Coaching Sessions from coaches across the US; your camp friends join these sessions too, so you’re learning together even after August 30
  • 24/7 Access to Ask Questions – post videos, ask for help, get feedback from coaches and experienced players
  • Complete Video Library with intermediate-focused content you can work through with your new partners
  • Nationwide Network – when you travel, you already have friendly faces to play with
  • The Group Chat on Steroids – your camp crew is chatting, but so is the entire national community. You’re part of something massive.

Real benefit: Your camp crew just became a nationwide family. Continuous coaching, continuous connection, continuous improvement, forever.

🎁 Bonus#3:  That’s a SURPRISE! And a little hint: It’s another perfect guide for 50 and over players.

Frequently Asked Questions

What skill level is this camp for?

This camp is designed specifically for intermediate players at the 3.0-3.5 level. Every drill, every strategy lesson, and every piece of coaching is calibrated for players who understand the basics and are ready to break through to the next level.

This camp is designed specifically for players 50 and over. If you’re 50+ and playing at the 3.0-3.5 intermediate level, you’re exactly who I built this session for.

You don’t need a DUPR rating. The 3.0-3.5 range is simply to help you understand who this camp is designed for. If you consider yourself an intermediate player who’s comfortable with basic strokes and ready to take your game to the next level, you’re in the right place.

Yes. I bring a positive, engaging approach to every session and scale every correction to where each player actually is. You’ll be challenged appropriately throughout and never overwhelmed.

Just bring your paddle, court shoes, athletic wear, protective eyewear (optional), water, some snacks, and a towel.

With a maximum of 8 players, you’ll receive plenty of personalized feedback throughout the camp. I watch every player closely and make real-time corrections that create visible, immediate improvement within the session itself.

Yes! This camp is held in a fully indoor facility.

Immediately upon registration:

  • Perfect Guide eBook (instant download)
  • Community access (login credentials sent to your email)

You can start learning before you even arrive. The SURPRISE bonus will be sent to you after the camp.

Because I focus on the technique and movement patterns that actually make shots work, not just the mechanics of individual shots, but the footwork, positioning, and injury prevention fundamentals that hold up under pressure. Every drill has a purpose. Every correction is immediate. And you walk away with lifetime community access and ongoing coaching support.

We understand that life happens, and we always aim to be as fair and flexible as possible.

If you need to cancel your registration for any reason, the following refund and credit options apply based on how much notice we receive:

30+ Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 90% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

15–30 Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 90% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

8–14 Days’ Notice
You may choose between:
• A 50% refund, or
• 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp

0–7 Days’ Notice
While we’re unable to offer refunds within this window, we’re happy to provide 100% credit toward a future Obsessed Pickleballers camp so you don’t miss out.

To request a refund or credit, please email us in writing. Once received, requests are typically processed within 10–15 business days.

Thank you for your understanding—we truly appreciate being part of your pickleball journey and look forward to welcoming you on the court soon.

Ready For Your Breakthrough?

This is your moment.

Sunday, August 30, 2026. 2:00 PM. The Picklr Albuquerque East, Albuquerque, NM

Players will walk in at the 3.0-3.5 level.

Players will learn, drill, and experience real game-changing breakthroughs.

Players will walk out with a clear path to 4.0 and the tools to get there.

The question is: Will you be one of them?

All rights reserved 2026. This product is brought to you and copyrighted by Obsessed Pickleballers

You Are One Step Away From Playing Smarter Pickleball.


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