Player Profile | Dan Levine

Name: Dan Levine | Age: 32 | Home courts: South Seas (Captiva Island) Sundial (Sanibel Island) | City of Sanibel’s 5.0 Pickleball Pro | IPTPA Certified Level II Pro 

How were you introduced to pickleball?

I was introduced by my dad at the Sanibel Rec Center. Fell in love with the game immediately. Have not picked up a tennis raquet since.

Do you have a racquet or paddle sport background? If so, how has that influenced your pickleball game?

I played tennis from 3 years old though college at Ithaca College. Being on a court was something I have always been passionate about. The transition over was challenging at first but very rewarding as my game grew.

What do you like most about playing pickleball?

I love to teach this amazing game to all different levels of people. Pickleball has changed my life and given me opportunities I did not even know were possible. It is always exciting seeing a client smile as they grow on court. I also love to compete and aspire to one day play on the Pro Tour.

Do you have any upcoming tournaments you are excited about playing in?

I will be playing in a couple tournaments in the next few months. The one I am most excited about is probably the biggest tournament in the world and they have a lottery system to get into. The Minto US Open Pickleball Championships in Naples Florida. I am playing in the 5.0 19 + doubles with my partner Eric as well as the age 19-35 event earlier in the week. Hoping to get into singles 5.0 but as of now I am on the waitlist.

Where are you originally from?

I am originally from Highland Mills New York.

You spend a lot of time teaching pickleball. Tell us about that.

I am the Head Pickleball Pro at South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island. I also teach all over Sanibel Island/Fort Myers to country clubs and communities with PB courts. Pickleball is such a fun/social game and can be played by all ages. I have clients that are juniors and some that go into their 80s! There is nothing better then introducing new players to this amazing game and watching consistent clients grow on the court.

Which TMPR paddle do you play with and why?

I use the Indigo Ice Tantrum LX. As I always tell my clients “Paddles are a preference and not every paddle fits every person” I have tried every TMPR Paddle and think they all offer something different to a player. I personally think the Tantrum LX has the perfect combination of control/power. It feels so smooth and the sweet spot is unmatched. I also had shoulder issues in college with tennis and TMPR paddles are perfect for never feeling any stress on the body.

What advice would you give new players who are just learning the game?

I would let them know that anyone can play this game and have a good time. It is great for the body/mind and you can stay active your entire life with Pickleball. Grab a TMPR paddle and lets get out on the court to teach you this great game.

If a player was coming to the area and was interested in lessons how should they contact you?

Give me a call at (845) 304-8460, or email dlevine1103@gmail.com and we will get you all set to play.