From Retirement to Coaching: Coach Julie Graham

---

Pickleball may be one of America’s fastest-growing sports, but for Julie Graham, it’s also a story of reinvention and community. As a founding coach at RT.12 Pickle, Julie recently sat down with fellow coach Steve DiPietro and shared her journey and insights. Her story offers a window into the sport’s explosive growth and the personal transformations it inspires.

Julie’s introduction to pickleball came at a turning point in her life. In July 2020, she retired abruptly during COVID—a decision she calls one of the best she’s ever made. Alongside her best friend, Julie discovered pickleball as a way to stay active and social during a challenging year. Their daily routine of morning pickleball, leisurely lunches, and afternoon volleyball made for an unexpectedly joyful retirement.

Julie’s passion for the game quickly evolved into a desire to teach. She began volunteering as a coach at her local YMCA, gaining invaluable experience and exposure. At the same time, she became a USAP ambassador and earned her coaching certification. For the past three and a half to four years, she’s been dedicated to helping others discover and improve at pickleball.

Why seek out a coach? Julie believes the answer is different for everyone. Some players hit plateaus or notice recurring issues—like popping up the ball or struggling with consistency. Coaches, she says, are uniquely equipped to spot and correct mechanical problems that might otherwise go unnoticed. For those eager to advance or learn new techniques, coaching can accelerate progress and open up new dimensions of the game.

Pickleball is changing fast, and Julie has witnessed the evolution firsthand. Early on, she was labeled a “banger”—a player who favors hard drives over soft shots. Determined to round out her game, she worked hard to master the drop shot, only to see the sport shift back toward aggressive drives. Today, she emphasizes the importance of versatility, “you should have both the drop shot and the drive in your arsenal to attack,” she said.

While many players are drawn to the social aspect of pickleball, Julie is a strong advocate for drilling. She believes that focused practice is the key to mastering new skills and truly improving. Her advice? Dedicate the first 30 to 45 minutes of any session to drills before transitioning to games. It’s a discipline even she admits can be hard to stick to, but the payoff is worth it.

Julie’s greatest satisfaction comes from teaching beginners. Watching new players progress—sometimes even becoming her competitors—is a source of pride and joy. She cherishes the relationships built through coaching, especially when former students recognize her in the community and fondly recall her as their first coach.

When it comes to professional pickleball, Julie admires senior pro Lee Whitwell for her skill, humor, and ability to engage the crowd. On the men’s side, she looks up to Ben Johns, praising his calm presence, flawless mechanics, and methodical approach to the game. As for her own game, Julie’s favorite and best shot is the overhead smash—a nod to her background as a volleyball middle hitter.

Julie Graham’s story is a testament to the power of pickleball to bring people together, foster growth, and create new opportunities at any stage of life. Her journey from novice to coach reflects the swift growth of pickleball itself, and her enthusiasm continues to motivate both newcomers and experienced players at RT.12 Pickle.