A certification for helping run local classes and clinics.
The Coordinator and Ambassador certifications are merging
The two certifications are equivalent. As of October 1, 2026, the name “Coordinator Certification” will be used for both.
The PJ Coordinator Certification helps people working to grow pickleball in their community or region run clinics smoothly.
This certification covers pickleball fundamentals, and also serves as your first step toward the Start Coach Certification.
* This certification does not qualify you to coach technique.
Your mission is to help clinic participants play pickleball safely and have fun. The goal is a clinic experience that leaves people wanting to try it again.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Anyone who wants to help run local classes or clinics, or who is aiming for a coaching certification. |
| Age | 19 or older |
| Membership | Must be a PJ individual member |
| Rules knowledge | Understands the rules of pickleball and can run a game independently |
| Where it fits in | The Coordinator Certification is required before taking any coaching certification (Start Coach and beyond). |
* These requirements are provisional and may change as the certification system develops.
The Coordinator Certification has two course options, Course A and Course B. The fee is the same for both.
| Course A | Course B | |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | ¥10,000 (tax included) | ¥10,000 (tax included) |
| Format | Self-study at home, followed by a test and a 3-hour session on the day. | Study and hands-on practice together with an instructor (about 5 hours). For those who want to learn in depth. |
* There is no exam or certification fee — completing the course completes your certification.
You must be a registered PJ individual member to take this certification. Register here and pay the ¥4,000 (tax included) annual fee.
Once you’re a member, choose one of the following three ways to apply.
| ①A Scheduled Session | ②Apply as an Individual | ③Request for a Group or Company | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Apply | Choose a date from the list of upcoming sessions and apply. * Please select Course A or B on the application form. | You can apply at any time. * At the time of application, no date has been set yet. | Submit a request to hold a certification session. |
| PJ’s Role | — | PJ secures a venue. | PJ assigns an instructor. |
| Course Selection | Whichever course you selected when applying. | Course A or B is decided based on the venue’s availability and the instructor’s schedule. | — |
| Participant Confirmation | — | Applicants are notified and participants are confirmed. | Depending on the number of participants, PJ may also recruit via social media. |
| Where to Apply | View Notices | Go to the Application Form | |
Can I take this without any coaching experience?
Yes. No coaching experience is required. This is designed as a first step for anyone aiming for a coaching certification.
Is it worth taking the Coordinator Certification on its own?
Yes. Even if you’re not aiming for a coaching certification, it’s useful groundwork for volunteering to help run a local class.
What should I take after this?
Move on to the Start Coach Certification, the first step in coaching. If you’re interested in officiating, consider the Referee Certification as well.
Pickleball Japan