Michael de Groot

Pickleball Coach specialising in delivering high-quality coaching for individuals, groups, and organisations—focused on making the game accessible, engaging, and enjoyable from the first session. Certified with the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association and Pickleball England (Level 1, currently progressing to Level 2), I work with players across all levels, combining clear technical coaching with a strong emphasis on confidence, strategy, and decision-making. • Coaching & Player Development – From complete beginners to competitive players, focusing on technique, strategy, and confidence on court • Corporate Team Away Days – High-energy, social, and accessible sessions designed to build connection, communication, and team cohesion (no experience needed) Sessions are structured, inclusive, and designed to deliver clear, tangible improvement—while maintaining the energy and enjoyment that make pickleball such an effective sport for both individuals and teams.

My volunteer role as West Midlands Regional Director I'm honoured to be your voice and advocate as the West Midlands Regional Director for Pickleball England. In this role, I wear several hats, all focused on growing and nurturing our vibrant pickleball community. Firstly, I represent the game itself. That means being a resource, answering questions, and educating people about the joys and benefits of pickleball. From newcomers curious about the rules to seasoned players seeking guidance, I strive to be a point of contact and support. Secondly, I serve as an ambassador – a bridge between Pickleball England and our regional members. I listen to your concerns, ideas, and suggestions, ensuring these reach the wider board and influence crucial decisions about the game's future. Thirdly, I'm your advocate. Whether it's advocating for more courts, better resources, or simply a listening ear, I'm dedicated to representing your needs and ensuring the West Midlands region thrives within the national pickleball landscape. But my role doesn't end there. I'm also an information hub, actively disseminating updates about programs, plans, and the overall direction of Pickleball England. By staying informed myself, I can effectively communicate and keep our regional community engaged. This responsibility excites me. I cherish the opportunity to connect with players of all levels, contribute to the sport's growth, and witness the West Midlands pickleball scene flourish. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle, know that I'm here to serve and support you. Let's keep the passion for pickleball alive and make our region a vibrant hub for this amazing game!

As a County Representative (Worcestershire) at pickleballEngland, I will be the county’s contact person for communications. I will work with local councils, media and clubs to continue the growth of pickleball in my county and England. I am the liaison person in my county for players and clubs seeking information about Pickleball and pickleballEngland. I will also support clubs to attract and retain new players, run coaching clinics and share best practice. Who are pickleballEngland? pickleballEngland are a Not-for-Profit organisation set up to promote and encourage in every way at local, national and international level the sport of pickleball and to act as the sole governing or delegating body for the sport in England. In collaboration with other appropriate bodies in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales promote the sport of pickleball throughout the UK. Our Purpose pickleballEngland exists to create and support opportunities for everyone to enjoy and achieve in pickleball. Our Vision pickleballEngland aspires to be recognised as a world leading National Governing Body, delivering a diverse and dynamic sport that transforms lives, connects communities, achieves excellence and inspires medal-winning performances.

In June 2019, I joined Taiko West as their freelance Media Officer, to support in the areas of digital media, website development and marketing. During the Pandemic 2020 lockdown, I assisted James Barrow and Taiko West with all the digital skills, resources, training, education, practical applications, communication strategies, video production, website creation and maintenance to allow him to take his Taiko drumming teaching online.

Selkirk is the #1 brand in Pickleball trusted by more players than any other brand. As an Ambassador I will be promoting Selkirk and Selkirk products, which are extensive and ground breaking. --- Selkirk Sports is a renowned manufacturer and innovator in the realm of pickleball equipment and gear. Founded in 2014 by Rob Barnes, Mike Barnes, and Jim Barnes, Selkirk Sports swiftly made its mark by combining innovation, quality craftsmanship, and a passion for the game. Based in Hayden, Idaho, Selkirk Sports has emerged as a frontrunner in the pickleball industry, creating top-notch paddles, gear, and accessories that cater to players of all skill levels. Their commitment to excellence has garnered a loyal following among pickleball enthusiasts worldwide. One of the key factors contributing to Selkirk's success is their dedication to research and development. They continuously refine their designs, employing cutting-edge materials and technologies to produce paddles that offer superior performance on the court. The company's product line includes a diverse range of paddles crafted to suit different playing styles, preferences, and skill levels. Apart from their product excellence, Selkirk is deeply involved in fostering the growth of the sport. They actively sponsor events, tournaments, and players, contributing to the expansion and popularity of pickleball on both a local and global scale. With a vision to continuously innovate and elevate the pickleball experience, Selkirk Sports remains a driving force in the industry, dedicated to providing top-quality gear and supporting the community of players worldwide.

The ‘Share Your Story’, podcast series are interviews with business people who run their own businesses. They are Micro-enterprises with between 1-9 employees only. Link below.

I’m a Dutchman and I’m hugely passionate about storytelling. My quest is to enable small business owners become better storytellers and share engaging stories about themselves and their businesses. I do this through my own small business, Staying Alive UK, where we enjoy producing visually impactful cartoons and animation campaigns, engaging audiences and giving them a unique insight into an organisation’s story and value proposition. In addition we also deliver the ‘Share Your Story’ Storytelling Workshops online to help business owners develop their own story blueprint. In my personal time, I’m a student of Pickleball, Taiko Drumming, Yoga, Mindfulness Meditation and Minimalism. Just my own way of developing a more meaningful life. Creator, Digital Storytelling, Script writing, Whiteboard Animation, 2D Animation, Storytelling Workshops Podcaster with 160+ episodes, Blogger with 600+ blogposts, YouTuber with 800+ videos, Digital Producer with multiple e-courses, Content Specialist

I spent 5 years teaching the world how to improve their personal brand and business prospects by improving their LinkedIn profile. I produced and published my online video course, which is hosted on Udemy.com. (Course link below).

Held management and director roles at board level for 28 years working in the UK textiles industry from yarn through to garment manufacturers.

‘Growing You’ is an inspirational, locally focussed, and unique business growth programme helping SMEs from a diverse background, to find ways to overcome barriers to growth, supporting you to develop your business to head towards sustainable success.