TeachMe.To, a learning marketplace that links students with skilled professionals for private lessons, is now advertising available lessons throughout the Austin area. Users can book sessions through the TeachMe.To website or app, choosing the time and location that best suits their schedule and neighborhood.
Lessons can take place anywhere in the area, based on player and coach preferences. Pickleball coach Mayra, for example, teaches most of her lessons at Mary Frances Baylor Clarksville Pocket Park or Pan American Neighborhood Park. Coaches closer to other Austin neighborhoods might have different go-to parks or places to play, so residents can find a coach in any neighborhood. Participants can opt for one-on-one instruction or book group lessons with family and friends.
“When it comes to learning something new and pursuing an interest, there’s real demand for that human-to-human, local experience,” said Tyler Maloney, CEO of TeachMe.To.
Lessons are open to all skill levels, from beginners to intermediates, and are suitable for any age, including kids, teens, and adults. No special equipment is necessary—students are only asked to wear athletic attire and bring items like water and sunglasses. All paddles, balls, and court gear will be provided.
“TeachMe.To exists to make it exponentially easier to try out a new skill or sport,” company President & COO Nick O’Brien told TechCrunch.
Austin ranks as the fourth most popular city for pickleball coaches on the TeachMe.To platform, according to a company report. Experts estimate an additional 25,000 courts are needed nationwide to accommodate the sport's growing demand.
Lessons typically last between one to two hours, with various available days and times.
The 2023 Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) Topline Participation Report indicates that pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for the third year in a row, out of 124 sports surveyed. Additionally, the 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report shows that 36.5 million Americans—around 14% of the adult population—played pickleball at least once in the past year.
TeachMe.To recently secured $5 million in seed funding led by Bling Capital, with other notable investors participating. The funds will be used to enhance the platform, which connects students with local coaches for in-person lessons across a range of activities, from sports to music. The company has seen rapid growth, offering over 200 lessons daily nationwide and emphasizing a human-centered learning experience even in an AI-driven world. The marketplace also enables instructors to monetize their expertise, with some top earners making over $5,000 monthly.