Professional pickleball standout Jay Devilliers is transitioning from the pro tour to a leadership role as the Director of The Academy at the USOP National Pickleball Center in Naples, Florida. Launching on November 16, this ambitious new training initiative aims to establish the world’s premier pickleball academy under the guidance of Executive Director Justin Romero.
Building a World-Class Training Destination
The National Pickleball Center, famous for hosting the US Open Pickleball Championships, is shifting its strategy to become a year-round hub for player development. By moving beyond the annual week-long tournament, the organization intends to provide consistent opportunities for training, league play, and skill advancement. To ensure the success of this new venture, Devilliers has outlined a structured, data-driven approach to coaching that leverages his background in elite tennis development. His strategy for The Academy focuses on four core pillars:
- Player Assessment: Coaches will conduct a comprehensive examination of each student’s current game to identify specific strengths and weaknesses.
- Strategic Planning: Based on the initial assessment, the staff will build a customized roadmap designed to facilitate targeted improvement for the individual player.
- Execution: Students will work through their personalized improvement plans on the court, focusing on the practical application of new skills and techniques.
- Progress Measurement: The program will utilize advanced tools—including video analysis, ball tracking technology, and objective results—to track and verify a player's growth over time.
The project is spearheaded by Executive Director Justin Romero, a former nationally ranked collegiate tennis player and 2024 RSPA Regional Pro of the Year. Romero brings extensive experience from his time at the Ocean Reef Club, where he successfully built a pickleball program from the ground up. His vision for the National Pickleball Center is holistic, covering everything from memberships and leagues to instruction and pro shop operations.
Devilliers’ involvement is seen as a major milestone for the facility. His background—which includes training at a professional tennis academy in Barcelona and competing at the Division I level at Wichita State—provides a professional framework for the new curriculum. With high-profile talent like Anna Leigh Waters also joining the effort, the Naples facility is positioning itself to set a new industry standard for instruction. Ahead of the official November launch, the center plans to host several events featuring Devilliers, allowing players to experience the new programming firsthand.
