News Flash

Contact:
San Francisco Recreation and Park Department: RPDcommunications@sfgov.org
Rachel Williams, Rec Technologies: rachel@rec.us

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A pilot program launched today by the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department and Rec Technologies offers tennis and pickleball players a safe, convenient and affordable way to improve their game through professional instruction.

The Rec Instructor Network introduces players of all levels to local pros offering one-on-one or small group lessons on select neighborhood courts. All instructors are background-checked and licensed by the program, ensuring a safe and professional experience. Booking is seamless and instructor profiles can be browsed here.

The program, which is currently in pilot phase, has already drawn more than 40 instructors, and aims to make high-quality lessons more accessible to a wider range of players. The program will continuously gather feedback from players, instructors and the public, which will be used to make real time adjustments to the program.          

“The goal is maximizing play for everyone, while allowing players a convenient and safe way to learn from professional instructors in their neighborhood park,” said San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg.

Courts in the pilot program include Alice Marble, Balboa, Buena Vista, Crocker Amazon, DuPont, Glen Canyon, Hamilton, Helen Wills, Jackson, Joe DiMaggio, Lafayette, Minnie & Lovie Ward, Moscone, Mountain Lake, Parkside Square, Presidio Wall, Richmond, Rossi, St. Mary’s and Sunset. 

Instructors set their own hourly rates for lessons, but by using public spaces, the City and Rec expect prices to be meaningfully lower than private options nearby.  Group lessons are limited to three players on a single court for tennis and four for pickleball. Hours available to book instruction are a mix of morning, mid-day and evening on weekends and weekdays and will be adjusted based on additional input and popularity.

“At Rec, our mission is to use technology to increase access to play and learning in cities. We’re excited to be partnering with Rec and Park to bring a simple and modern experience that helps residents get the most out of their neighborhood courts,” said Co-Founder and CEO Birju Kadakia.

Instructors receive 75-80 percent of lesson revenue depending on the court with 20-25 percent going toward the costs of operating the program.

Learn more about the program here.

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