Meet Your Coach

Hi, I'm Rita

I've dedicated much of my adult life to helping people discover the joy of team sports — and to making sure they play safely and confidently, no matter their age or experience level.

Along with 10 high school varsity letters in women's basketball, softball and volleyball, after college I began coaching high school women's softball, volleyball, and basketball. After moving to Washington, I was a recreational soccer coach for my three children as they grew up, and I started playing M1 level women's soccer, winning two Over 40 National Championships.

In Washington I taught at both the junior high and high school levels, and coached women's varsity basketball, before moving to Lake Las Vegas in 2020, where I started playing Pickleball at the LLV Sports Club.

I've played at the Advanced level and participated in multiple tournaments, including winning the Open National Pickleball Women's Doubles Championship in 2024.

I fell in love with pickleball's unique blend of strategy, athleticism, and community, and I've been able to seamlessly use my passion for teaching, along with my coaching experiences to provide effective and focused training to various club members.

I'm currently teaching Beginner and Intermediate Pickleball courses at Lake Las Vegas clubs, along with an increasing schedule of personal training.

I decided to create Pickleball Edge to bring professional-level coaching to new and established Pickleball players in our community, with a special focus on making the sport fun, accessible and safe for active adults and seniors.

Whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time, or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, I tailor every session to your goals, your fitness, and your pace of development.

Book a Session with Rita
Rita, Edge Pickleball coach, on the court

PCI Certified

Level I Instructor

Pickleball Coaching International Level I Certification — Rita Costello

Certified Pickleball Instructor

Pickleball Coaching International (PCI) — Level I Certification, endorsed by the Global Pickleball Federation

Credentials & Training

Professional certifications and education that back every session.

PCI Certified Instructor

Pickleball Coaching International Level I certified instructor, endorsed by the Global Pickleball Federation.

30+ Years Coaching

Decades of experience coaching a variety of team sports, with the last 5 years dedicated exclusively to pickleball.

Rita coaching a group of players on the pickleball court

My Vision

I believe pickleball should be a lifelong sport. My coaching philosophy centers on three principles:

  • 1

    Safety First

    Proper movement mechanics and injury prevention are woven into every drill and lesson — especially for active adults.

  • 2

    Progress at Your Pace

    No pressure, no judgment. Every session builds on what you've learned, at a speed that works for you.

  • 3

    Community & Fun

    Pickleball is a social sport. I foster a welcoming environment where players support each other and have a great time.

Read Safety Guidelines

Let's Get Started

Ready to work with a coach who puts your safety and progress first? Book your first session today.