Michael Harris: Taking Pickleball to the Next Level

Pickleball has rapidly grown from a backyard game to one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. and for good reason. Torchbearers of this movement are those passionate players, teachers, and community builders, who are focused on teaching, inspiring, and expanding the game. One of these greats is Michael Harris, a 5.0 player, instructor, and TapNPaddle’s Vice President, one of the top pickleball stores and outlets for player community.

Michael’s progression in the game of pickleball mirrors not only his passion for the game, but his focus on helping others do the same so that they too can appreciate this wonderful game of ours. From competition on the court, coaching in the classroom, or creating instructional videos online, Harris is unrelenting in his quest to grow the game of pickleball at all levels. Michael Harris|Pickleball pro|Wichita

A Deep Love for the Sport:

Like many in the pickleball community, Michael’s introduction to the game began with curiosity and fun. What started as a new activity soon became a serious pursuit. With his athletic background and natural competitiveness, he quickly rose through the ranks, developing into a 5.3-level playera distinction that signals mastery of advanced skills and tournament-level performance.

Yet, what sets Harris apart isn’t just his playing ability. It’s the joy he brings to the court and his ability to connect with people. He understands that pickleball is more than just a sport it’s a community builder. Players of all ages and skill levels gravitate toward his approachable teaching style and encouraging attitude.

TapNPaddles: Leadership and Vision:

Michael  Vice President / Director of Pickleball As Vice President and Director of Pickleball at TapNPaddles, Michael is instrumental in leading the vision of the company. TapNPaddles is not just a store but a place for players to learn, meet people and make progress. Under his watch, the brand has grown not just in terms of gear and apparel, but in terms of education and outreach as well.

Michael’s fingerprints are everywhere across the company’s efforts. He is the man behind “Pickleball Pro Tips,” a weekly video series in which he dissects various aspects of play for players looking to improve their game. Whether it’s constructing a better serve or learning how to dink at the kitchen line, his instruction is hands on and instantly applicable for the player.

The pickleball community response has been very positive. His clear teaching benefits beginners, and his technical knowledge and competitive style attract more experienced players. By combining accessibility with a high level understanding of the game, Michael has actually made TapNPaddles a reliable source in pickleball education.

Sponsored Athlete and Competitor:

In addition to leading TapNPaddles, Michael Harris is also a sponsored player for Lunar Pickleball. This honor is a testament to his level of artistry and impact across the discipline of gymnastics. As a coach, he bring the same laser-like focus and intensity to his coaching as he does to his compeitition.

Sponsored athlete is not just a sponsorship to wear a brand logo, but a matter of values. For Michael, this collaboration represents the importance he places in backing innovation in pickleball equipment and supporting companies that share his passion for growing the game. Whether he’s play testing paddles, marketing gear, or warming up for a high-level match, Michael shows up to the court professional and ready to embrace the game wholeheartedly.

Coaching Philosophy: Building Better Players:

But what makes Michael Harris special is his role as coach and mentor. His philosophy as a coach is based on three key things :

⁠ ⁠Back to Basics Core techniques are crucial, Michael explains. He is convinced that those foundations in footwork, paddle control and shot choice are the keys to long-term improvement.

⁠ ⁠Strategy and Smart Play Despite the importance of power and athleticism, Harris makes sure to tell his students that pickleball is an intelligence game in the end. Knowing where to be on court, reading your opponent’s ball, and taking great choices can often be more important than power.

⁠ ⁠Fun and Confidence- Michael knows…many people come to pickleball to have fun, exercise, and community. He’s the kind of teacher who gives confidence and is fun to be around, but at the same time demands that everyone really learn the game.   Michael Harris|Pickleball pro|Wichita

Wichita, and Beyond, Is Haunted By a Presence

One town that has been quick to embrace pickleball has been Wichita, Kansas, a city where Michael’s impact is particularly deep. Through community partnerships and helping put the sport into venues like Chicken N Pickle, he has done a lot to help grow the game at the local level. Wichita’s courts frequently teem with players who have practiced with Harris, or been on the receiving end of his inspiration.

But he is now reaching much farther than a single city. Michael has met players from around the United States and as far away as other countries through TapNPaddles’ online platform. Thanks to his online tutorials, reviews and instructional series, he’s a familiar—and trusted—presence in countless pickleball homes.   Michael Harris|Pickleball pro|Wichita

Looking Ahead:

Pickleball is booming and leaders like Michael Harris are necessary in helping the sport grow. His blend of competitive mastery, business empowerment and teaching an inability make him one of the central characters to break into the game of pickleball.

As for the future, there is no sign that Harris will ease up. With TapNPaddles on the rise, Lunar Pickleball introducing exciting new equipment, and the sport growing into new markets, his role will only become more essential.

Fans can look forward to more of Michael’s educational content, tournament presence and community efforts in the years to come. Every step of the path, he will bring the same fire and determination that represents everything good about the sport.   Michael Harris|Pickleball pro|Wichita

Role / Activity	Details
Michael Harris	TapNpaddles
Vice President (TapNPaddles)	Oversees pickleball programming, training, and events
Certified Instructor & 5.4 Player	Delivers private and group instruction; leads clinics and leagues
Sponsored Athlete & Content Creator	Partnered with Lunar Pickleball; produces “Pickleball Pro Tip Fridays”
Tournament Organizer & Partner	Involved in USSP’s 2025 DRS Fall Classic at TapNPaddles