Meet our Pickleball Pros!

They help support our pickleball programs across 7 locations in Chester County. If you're looking for a lesson, reach out to our pros below and purchase a lesson today.

 

 

John Harvey, Pickleball Pro at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

John Harvey

Pickleball Pro

610-444-9622

Staying active is something that John Harvey loves to do. He’s done so throughout his career with the U.S. Marine Corps and now as a Pickleball Pro at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. 

“I wasn’t ready to ‘sit and relax’ yet,” explains John. “Being a pickleball instructor at the YCMA allows me to remain active – much like pickleball itself. Pickleball is a well-rounded game that allows players to stay mentally, physically and socially active.”

In his role as a YMCA Pickleball Pro, John teaches the basics of pickleball to beginners and helps advanced players learn tips, tricks and strategies. John organizes open court time, leveled play and pickleball clinics for members and guests. John holds the L1 pickleball instructor certification from the International Pickleball Teacher Professional Association (IPTPA) – in addition to being a NASM-Certified Personal Trainer (CPT).

When he’s not playing pickleball or exercising, John enjoys reading non-fiction, especially history. Outside of the Y, you’ll find John spending time with his wife and Smedley, their Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

 

Steve Sciscione, Pickleball Pro at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

Stephen Sciscione

Pickleball Pro

610-444-9622

Teaching and mentoring is a gift that Steve Sciscione has shared with the Chester County community in many facets – from career counseling to karate and many steps in between. After a 30-year career at the University of Delaware as an administrator, career counselor and adjunct faculty member and 20 years spent as a karate instructor at the Lionville Community YMCA, Steve lends his teaching talents to members of the Kennett Area YMCA as a certified Pickleball Pro.

In his role as a YMCA Pickleball Pro, Steve helps members and guests learn the ins and outs of pickleball. Each week, Steve teaches pickleball clinics and organizes round-robin play and open court times. Steve holds the L1 pickleball instructor certification from the International Pickleball Teacher Professional Association (IPTPA) – and is a player himself. After playing tennis competitively for ten years, Steve has made the jump over to pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong.

“My passion is helping others live a healthier lifestyle and reach their wellness, life and career goals,” explains Steve. And, he’s living by that statement. When Steve isn’t busy on the pickleball courts, he spends time at the YMCA as an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer, a LiveStrong Coach and a substitute instructor for Tai Chi. Steve holds a 7th-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Outside of the Y, Steve spends time with his many grandchildren and enjoys traveling to Cape May and Tuscany.