Introduction
Meet Thomas Liess, a former professional swimmer who once powered through lanes for the Swiss national team. After dedicating years to the rigorous demands of competitive swimming, Thomas decided it was time for a new chapter. He moved to the vibrant city of New York to pursue his Master's and Ph.D. in Economics.
But as any athlete knows, the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of sports never truly leaves the heart. Amid lectures and research papers, Thomas found himself yearning for the exhilaration of athletic challenge in an environment that might introduce him to more young professionals. It was during this quest that he stumbled upon a game that would reignite his competitive fire: pickleball.
Discovering Pickleball in New York
First Impressions
Thomas first heard about pickleball through a fellow student who raved about its fast-paced action and friendly community. Intrigued, he decided to check out a local pickleball club nestled in one of the city's bustling parks.
The welcoming atmosphere of the pickleball community was immediate. Players of all ages and skill levels gathered to share tips, challenge each other, and most importantly, have fun. Thomas quickly realized that pickleball wasn't just a game; it was a social experience that brought people together.
"I was amazed at how quickly I felt part of the group," Thomas recalls. "Everyone was so encouraging, offering advice and inviting me to join their games. It was exactly what I needed—a way to meet people while still getting a competitive fix."
The Drive to Improve
Rekindling the Competitive Spirit
As Thomas played more, his natural athleticism helped him pick up the basics quickly. However, he also recognized that pickleball had nuances that required dedicated practice to master. His competitive instincts kicked in—he didn't just want to play; he wanted to excel.
"Coming from a professional sports background, I knew the importance of technique and strategy," he says. "I wanted to dive deeper into the game, understand its intricacies, and push myself to improve."
Documenting the Journey
Determined to track his progress and identify areas for improvement, Thomas began recording videos of his gameplay. He decided to focus on key aspects of pickleball: forehand and backhand dinks.
By analyzing his performance, he hoped to refine his skills and develop a well-rounded game.
Leveraging Remote Coaching
Connecting Through Technology
While searching for ways to enhance his training, Thomas discovered Bounce, a platform that connects players with professional pickleball coaches across the world. The idea of receiving personalized feedback from seasoned coaches, despite geographical distances, was appealing.
"Remote coaching was a game-changer for me," Thomas explains. "It allowed me to access expert advice without disrupting my busy academic schedule. I was even able to get feedback from multiple coaches simultaneously.”
The Benefits of Remote Coaching
- Flexibility: Thomas could submit videos and receive feedback at times that suited him.
- Personalized Insights: Coaches provided tailored advice based on his specific needs.
- Access to Expertise: He could learn from top coaches he wouldn't have met otherwise.
Analyzing His Game: Videos and Coach Feedback
Lesson with Lee Whitwell
Lesson with Eric Wold
Lesson with David Dutrieuille
Lesson with Mark Livingston
Follow Along for Updates
Thomas's journey from the pool to the pickleball court is just beginning. With each coaching session and practice game, he's honing his skills and deepening his love for the sport. As he balances his academic pursuits with his passion for pickleball, Thomas invites you to join him on this exciting path.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights into Thomas's progress, which will be shared on The Dink, your go-to source for all things pickleball.
Connect with Thomas
- Instagram: @thomasliess
- X: @LiessThomas
Special Thanks
- Coaches: Mark Livingston, Lee Whitwell, Eric Wold & David Dutrieuille
