Meet Your Coaches

NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach

Founder, 1UP Pickleball Club

Jack Buenaventura's journey with pickleball began just over two years ago, quickly evolving from a casual hobby into a full-blown passion that transformed his lifestyle. Now a key figure in the sport, Jack is the Founder of 1UP Pickleball Club. 

Jack actively competes in tournaments across the city, earning multiple medals in various divisions during his first year on the competitive circuit. His relentless drive and enthusiasm for the sport continue to propel him forward, as he aims to elevate pickleball’s presence in the Greater Toronto Area. 

Beyond playing, Jack is committed to developing players and expanding the sport’s reach. As the Director of Pickleball for NIKE Sports Camp Canda and Program Partner at Battle Arena Jack is shaping programs that cater to players of all skill levels. In April, Jack earned his Certified Coaching Certificate, with Coaching Association of Canada further solidifying his role as a leader in the pickleball community. 

Jack’s vision for Pickleball Arena and the 1UP Pickleball Club is to establish it as the premier club for training, development, coaching, recreational and competitive play —a welcoming space where players of all backgrounds can enjoy the game and grow their skills. With his unwavering passion and commitment, Jack is helping to shape the future of pickleball in the region.

NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach

15 Year Multi-Sport Veteran Coach

Mark brings over 15 years of coaching experience across basketball, volleyball, and now pickleball.

He discovered pickleball two years ago and instantly fell in love with the sport. Since then, he’s competed in 4.0+ level tournaments, earning multiple medals along the way. In 2024, Mark became NCCP Level 1 certified as a pickleball coach.

Mark played collegiate volleyball at Seneca College (2008–2009), where he took on multiple roles including middle, outside, and libero. He later joined the coaching staff at York University for the men’s volleyball team, specializing in passing and defense. He continues to stay active in the 9Man volleyball scene to this day.

A true multi-sport athlete, Mark also played basketball for three years in the Ontario Basketball Association. Beyond the court, he's been an avid skateboarder for over a decade—earning sponsorships along the way.

In his free time, Mark enjoys relaxing with his family, friends, and his dog, Londy.

NCCP Level 1 Certified Pickleball Coach

Passionate Pickleball Competitor

Ameet is a certified NCCP Level 1 Pickleball Instructor with Pickleball Canada.  
As a certified coach he has a passion for helping players unlock their full potential on the court.  Ameet focuses on fundamentals, skill development and building strategy awareness while creating a fun and safe environment.  His adaptive coaching style includes live demonstrations, practice with instruction and game play scenarios allowing the player to build confidence when on the court.  

In addition to coaching, Ameet is a passionate competitor, regularly playing pickleball in competitive leagues and various venues across the city and internationally.  Ameet continues to focus on improving his pickleball game by using local and online resources, drilling sessions and competitive games.  

He also has years of experience with coaching and instruction across a wide variety of sports including softball and ultimate frisbee for all ages and has competed at the provincial level.

When not competing Ameet spends time with friends including those he met from the pickleball community or setting up a pickleball net and introducing the game to friends.