Meet our Coaches

Sam Martin 

Greetings, I am Sam-I-Am, delighted to share that I will be offering beginner and intermediate classes at Rowdy Hog Pickleball! With a profound love for the sport and more than 8 years of expertise, I am eager to embark on this coaching journey, guiding newcomers and assisting seasoned players in elevating their skills.

Check out his lesson schedule here!

 

Gail Nankervis

 

Gail Nankervis, originally from South Africa, embarked on an adventurous journey with her husband, Rob, in the early 90s, eventually settling in Arkansas in 1996. Despite the initial challenges of relocation, Gail found fulfillment in nurturing her family, especially her two daughters, until they reached school age. It was during this time that Gail's passion for tennis blossomed, propelling her to pursue certification as a tennis instructor. Over the past 17 years, she has dedicated herself to coaching players of all ages and skill levels, earning esteemed recognition as the Tennis Pro of the Year by the Arkansas Tennis Association. Gail's journey took an unexpected turn when her tennis club made the bold decision to convert one of its courts several years ago into pickleball courts. Initially met with skepticism from traditional tennis players, Gail's curiosity prompted her to explore this emerging sport. To her delight, any apprehension swiftly dissolved as she immersed herself in the fast-paced and inclusive world of pickleball. Now certified by the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) as a pickleball professional coach, Gail's passion for the game knows no bounds. Today, Gail stands as a figure within both the tennis and pickleball communities of Arkansas. She derives immense joy from sharing her expertise with individuals of all ages and skill levels, whether they are newcomers to pickleball or seasoned athletes striving to hone their techniques. Gail's unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive learning environment continues to inspire those around her.

Check out her lesson schedule here!

Rob Nankervis

South African born but proud to be an American citizen since 2013.
I have been a tennis professional for twenty five years, and I became a PPR certified pickleball professional. I was instrumental in growing pickleball at Otter Creek Racquet Club over the last two years, and I am very glad to be part of the pickleball community at Rowdy Hog Pickleball. I’m a firm believer in teaching the fundamentals of the game, with the emphasis on “fun”.

Check out his lesson schedule here!