About premier pickleball

Established in 2017 by pickleball enthusiasts and ambassadors of the game, Barbara Norton and Patty Corn, Premier Pickleball has been serving Bergen and Rockland County providing private lessons, night schools and open play to over 1,200 pickleball players of all ages and skill levels.

In May of 2022 Barbara and Patty decided it was time to take Premier to the next level. They chose Kevin and Mary Smith of Waldwick to continue the Premier journey.

Kevin, a retired police officer, is the owner of the largest over 35 adult baseball league in New Jersey.  Play at The Plate New Jersey has grown from 400 members to 1,200 members in only 4 years. PATPNJ currently manages 40 baseball teams throughout Bergen, Essex and Rockland Counties. Kevin is also a PPR Certified Pickleball Instructor.

Mary has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for over 25 years. Her background in finance will ensure that Premier will provide the best possible pickleball experience for all their customers.

Together Kevin and Mary have won over 60 medals throughout their 5-year pickleball journey. They continue to travel across the country participating in tournaments to further hone their skills. In 2019 they won a Gold Medal at the US Open in Naples Florida. They recently came in 4th place at the Franklin NYC Open. Mary recently won a  Bronze Medal at the APP Delray Open in womens doubles. They are one of the few husband and wife teams that compete together and still manage to live harmoniously under the same roof.

Premier currently has a staff of 8 PPR and IPTPA certified instructors. Each instructor will bring their own special skill set to the court.

We look forward to introducing new players to the sport by teaching at Midland Park, Ridgewood, Emerson, Glen Rock and Orangetown night schools. Premier will also provide additional instruction and open play hours at Bethany Church in Washington Township and Hoop Heaven and Waldwick Covered Courts in Waldwick.