Bob Savar
“Pickleball for Beginners”
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDQN9XJN?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420 (Kindle version)
https://bobsavarpickleball.com/
https://www.instagram.com/bobsavarauthor/
https://www.facebook.com/bobsavarauthor
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpRRZvyQfCd7y2QKKUb2qBQ/videos
https://www.linkedin.com/company/362510/admin/feed/posts/
Tell your readers a little about
yourself, where you grew up, where you live now, where you went to school etc.
Let them get to know the personal you.
I’m a PPR-Certified
Professional Pickleball Instructor and have been teaching pickleball since 2018
in Palm Beach County, Florida. My background includes teaching varsity tennis
at the high school level, playing (and winning championships) in the Palm Beach
County Senior Pickleball League, and winning a gold medal in mixed doubles at
the Delray Beach Pickleball Classic in 2019.
Presently I am teaching
clinics and private lessons and have a meetup group (https://www.meetup.com/palm-beach-county-pickleball-meetup-group/) of over 1,300 members. My specialty is teaching
newbies, beginners, and intermediates,
as well as children, and I also coach doubles teams that participate in various
local leagues.
I have taught hundreds
of people how to play pickleball over the past several years, and have three
books that bring together the vast amount of knowledge and experience I have
gained as a teacher of the sport.
I wrote my first book,
“Pickleball for Beginners,” an Amazon bestseller, in 2020. Then
in 2022, I wrote an expanded and revised edition, which I renamed “How to Get Started Playing
Pickleball.” Besides adding
more videos and commentary, I also added QR codes to the paperback version so
readers could watch the videos on their handheld devices or computers while
reading the book.
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In the same year, 2022, I wrote my second book, “How to Improve from a Beginner to an Intermediate in Pickleball,” and in August of 2023, I published my third book, “Pickleball for Seniors,” a comprehensive guide crafted to make the pickleball experience for seniors enjoyable and fulfilling. Later this year I hope to publish my fourth book, which I am currently writing, called “Pickleball for Non-Athletes.”
I am also well-known
in the national pickleball scene. In 2018, I started a website called Pickleball Teachers Network
(which I later sold) and attended tournaments to meet and interview
professional pickleball players. You can hear these conversations on my YouTube channel at
(https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpRRZvyQfCd7y2QKKUb2qBQ/videos) and read more about them on my website (https://bobsavarpickleball.com/).
Besides teaching
pickleball clinics and private lessons, and writing books, I find time to work
out in the gym, walk and run on trails, take hiking trips out west with my
children and grandchildren, and play recreational pickleball and tennis with my
friends. At age 76, having retired from business in 2017, I have reinvented
myself into a life that I thoroughly enjoy and hope to continue for years to
come.
What inspired you to author this book?
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As
a seasoned pickleball player and instructor, and a firm believer in lifelong
learning, I realized that seniors often face unique challenges when it comes to
starting a new sport or staying active. I wanted to create a comprehensive
resource that would address these specific needs and provide a clear roadmap
for seniors to embark on their pickleball journey with confidence and
enthusiasm.
I
am also deeply passionate about promoting the idea that age should never be a
barrier to pursuing one's interests and goals. Through "Pickleball for
Seniors," I sought to challenge societal misconceptions about aging and
inspire fellow seniors to embrace their potential, on and off the court.
This
book is the culmination of my expertise as a pickleball instructor and my
commitment to empowering seniors to lead vibrant and fulfilling lives. I poured
my heart into crafting a guide that not only imparts essential pickleball
techniques and strategies but also fosters a sense of community and well-being
among its readers.
Ultimately, the inspiration behind "Pickleball for Seniors" is to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of my fellow seniors, encouraging them to stay active, engaged, and full of life through the incredible world of pickleball. I am truly excited to see how this book will inspire others to discover the joy of pickleball and embrace the boundless possibilities that await them on the court and beyond.
Where did you get the
inspiration for your book’s cover?
As I set out to design the cover for "Pickleball for
Seniors," my inspiration was drawn from the vibrant and dynamic nature of
the sport itself, as well as the sense of community and inclusivity that it
fosters among players. The cover needed to convey the essence of pickleball
while appealing specifically to seniors who are eager to embark on this
exciting journey.
To
achieve this, I envisioned a cover that would showcase the joyful and energetic
spirit of pickleball players, highlighting the enthusiasm and camaraderie that
comes with the sport. I wanted the cover to exude positivity and a sense of
empowerment, emphasizing that age is no barrier to enjoying pickleball to the
fullest.
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The
central image of the cover features a group of active seniors, including
myself, engaged in a lively pickleball match, showcasing the fun and social
aspects of the game, as well as a picture of me, aged 76, so potential readers
could see that the author is someone with whom they can relate. Also, I chose
vibrant colors that evoke energy and vitality, reflecting the dynamic nature of
pickleball play.
Overall, my goal was to create a cover that immediately
captures the attention of seniors, conveying a sense of excitement and intrigue
about the possibilities that "Pickleball for Seniors" holds. I hope
that the cover serves as an inviting gateway into the world of pickleball,
inspiring seniors to pick up the book, explore its contents, and embark on
their own transformative pickleball journey.
Who has been the most
significant influence on you personally and as a writer?
There are many excellent books written
by sports coaches that offer valuable insights into coaching, leadership, and
the psychology of sports. There are two books in this genre that had the most influence
on me.
One is "Leading with the Heart" by Mike Krzyzewski,
also known as Coach K; this is a compelling and insightful book that delves
into the principles and strategies behind his extraordinary success as a
basketball coach at Duke University. In this book, Coach K goes beyond the
basketball court, sharing his leadership philosophy and demonstrating how the
principles that drive success in sports can be applied to various aspects of
life, including business and personal relationships.
At
its core, the book's theme revolves around the power of leadership driven by
compassion, integrity and a genuine concern for the people you lead. Coach K
emphasizes the importance of building strong and authentic relationships with
players, colleagues, and employees, fostering a culture of trust, respect, and
mutual understanding. He believes that by leading with the heart, leaders can
inspire greatness in others, ignite a sense of purpose, and create an
environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.
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Coach K emphasizes the importance of humility and continuous learning. He believes that successful leaders never stop growing and evolving, and they should be open to feedback and new ideas. By acknowledging their own vulnerabilities and limitations, leaders can connect on a deeper level with their team and encourage a culture of continuous improvement and resilience.
"Leading with the Heart" serves as a roadmap
for aspiring leaders, no matter the sport, and individuals seeking to make a
positive impact on others. Coach K's wisdom transcends the world of sports, as
he reminds us that authentic leadership is not just about achieving victories
on the scoreboard but also about building a legacy of inspiration and
empowering others to achieve greatness both on and off the court of life.
Another book that had a profound influence on me is "The Score Takes Care of Itself: My
Philosophy of Leadership" by Bill Walsh, the legendary NFL coach. The book
imparts valuable lessons on coaching and leadership and offers profound
insights into Walsh's successful coaching career, particularly during his time
with the San Francisco 49ers, where he transformed the team into a dominant
force and led them to multiple Super Bowl victories.
Some
key takeaways about coaching from "The Score Takes Care of Itself"
include:
1. Attention to Detail: Walsh emphasizes
the significance of paying attention to even the smallest details. He believed
that excellence is achieved through meticulous planning, preparation, and
execution. Coaches must have a keen eye for identifying weaknesses, strengths,
and opportunities for improvement, both in themselves and their players.
2. Standards of Excellence: Walsh was an
advocate for setting high standards and expectations for everyone involved in
the team. He believed that mediocrity should not be tolerated, and every
individual should strive for excellence in their roles.
3. Adaptability and Innovation: Walsh
valued innovation and adaptability in coaching strategies. He was known for
introducing new offensive systems and concepts that revolutionized the game of
football. Coaches must be open to change, willing to embrace new ideas, and
continuously evolve their approaches to stay ahead in the competitive
landscape.
4. Leadership by Example: As a leader,
Walsh believed in demonstrating the behaviors and qualities he expected from
his players and staff. He led by example, and his actions spoke louder than
words. Coaches must embody the values they seek to instill in their students or
team, earning respect and trust through their integrity and work ethic.
5. Building Relationships: Walsh emphasized
the importance of building strong relationships with players and staff. By
understanding players’ motivations, aspirations, and challenges, coaches can
tailor their approach to bring out the best in their players.
6. Emotional Intelligence: Walsh recognized
the significance of emotional intelligence in coaching. Understanding and
managing emotions, both of oneself and others, are crucial for creating a
positive and supportive team culture.
7.
Focus
on Continuous Improvement: Walsh believed in constant learning and growth.
Continuous improvement is a hallmark of effective coaching, as it allows for
ongoing development and adaptation to changing circumstances.
"The Score Takes Care of Itself" is not only a
valuable resource for coaches in the world of football but also for leaders in
any field. Walsh's coaching philosophy transcends sports, offering timeless
principles of leadership, discipline, and vision that can inspire and guide
individuals in their pursuit of excellence and success.
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What were the struggles or obstacles you had to overcome to get this book written?
As the author of "Pickleball for Seniors," I faced several significant struggles and obstacles while writing the book. Here are some elaborations on the challenges you encountered:
1. Time Management: Balancing my time
between teaching pickleball clinics, giving private lessons, and writing blog
and social media posts about pickleball was undoubtedly a considerable
challenge. Finding dedicated time to focus on writing the book amidst my busy
schedule required careful planning and prioritization.
2. Writing vs. Coaching: Juggling between
writing and coaching demanded a delicate balance. Coaching responsibilities can
be physically and mentally demanding, leaving limited energy and time for
creative writing. Transitioning from the hands-on, dynamic world of coaching to
the introspective and focused writing process required mental agility and
discipline.
3. Identifying Seniors' Unique Struggles:
Writing a book specifically tailored to seniors meant understanding and
addressing their unique challenges, aspirations, and needs. This required
in-depth research, interviews, and empathy to grasp the physical limitations,
concerns, and desires of senior players. Isolating and articulating these
issues in a way that resonated with seniors called for a thorough understanding
of their perspective.
4. Tailoring Content for Senior Audience:
Crafting content that was engaging, relatable, and helpful for seniors was a
constant consideration. Striking the right tone and presenting information in a
manner accessible to a senior audience required sensitivity and the ability to
simplify complex concepts without condescension.
5. Overcoming Writer's Block: Like any
writer, I encountered moments of writer's block and self-doubt during the
creative process. Conveying my expertise and passion for pickleball in a
comprehensive yet engaging way demanded perseverance and confidence in my
ability to deliver valuable content.
6. Research and Validation: Ensuring the
accuracy and credibility of the information provided in the book was essential.
Conducting thorough research and validating facts, tips, and strategies
demanded time and effort, as I wanted to offer seniors reliable guidance they
could trust and use.
7.
Managing
Expectations: Striving to create a book that meets or exceeds readers'
expectations is always challenging. Recognizing that each senior reader might
have diverse preferences and needs required careful consideration of my target
audience's interests and desires.
Despite these obstacles, my dedication and passion for
sharing the joy of pickleball with seniors prevailed. Overcoming these
challenges not only enriched the content of "Pickleball for Seniors"
but also reinforced my commitment to empowering seniors to lead active,
fulfilling lives through the sport I love. The hurdles I faced in writing the
book are a testament to my resilience and determination as an author and a
pickleball enthusiast dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of
seniors.
Tell your readers about your book: Version I
The purpose of
"Pickleball for Seniors" is to offer seniors and caregivers a
comprehensive guide to pickleball, a fun and accessible sport that emphasizes
coordination, social interaction, and fitness. This book serves as an essential
tool for seniors who are interested in engaging in a physically stimulating
activity that is adaptable to various fitness levels.
With an aging population, the need for suitable
recreational activities that promote physical health and social engagement is
more crucial than ever. Many seniors are unaware of or do not have access to
sports that are tailored to their abilities and interests. Traditional sports
may be too taxing or fail to offer the community aspect that can significantly
enrich the lives of older adults.
"Pickleball for Seniors" addresses this gap by
introducing readers to the exciting world of pickleball. The book includes
easy-to-follow instructions, safety precautions, strategies, and techniques
tailored to senior players. Furthermore, it explores the benefits of pickleball
on mental well-being, offering personal stories and insights from seniors who
have embraced the sport. By focusing on a sport that is rapidly growing in
popularity and is known for its friendly and inclusive community, the book aims
to encourage more seniors to take part.
"Pickleball for Seniors" provides a
step-by-step guide that includes:
●
Introduction
to Pickleball: Covering the history, equipment, and basic rule
●
Techniques
and Strategies: Outlining methods suitable for seniors, including posture,
swing, scoring, and positioning.
●
Health
and Safety Considerations: Emphasizing proper warm-ups, stretches, and
precautions specifically for older players.
●
Community
Building: Advice on finding local pickleball communities, creating social
connections, and fostering a supportive environment.
●
Resources:
A directory of clubs, associations, and online resources for continued support
and learning.
"Pickleball for Seniors" offers a practical and
engaging roadmap for seniors looking to enrich their lives through a sport that
is both accessible and enjoyable.
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Tell your readers about your book: Version II
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports among seniors in North America. This paddle sport with similarities to tennis and ping pong has exploded in popularity in retirement communities, recreation centers, and parks over the last two decades. So why has this activity taken off? Pickleball provides the perfect exercise, social experience, and competitive outlet for older adults looking to stay active.
The moderate exercise involved in pickleball delivers extensive health benefits from improved cardiovascular health to increased strength and coordination. The social nature facilitates making new friends and strengthening community ties. The team competition and skills practice keeps the brain engaged. And above all, the sport is fun!
“Pickleball for Seniors” dives into all the aspects that make pickleball an ideal activity for seniors. It covers the basics to get started, from equipment and rules to finding places to play. You learn skills, drills, and strategies to improve your game as a beginner or experienced player. Guidance is provided on training properly to gain the physical benefits while preventing injury. Finally, the book explores the growing pickleball scene and tournaments focused on senior players.
Whether you're 60, 70, 80, or beyond, it's never too late to get into pickleball! This book will prepare you to enjoy the health perks and social connections of embracing the pickleball lifestyle. Get ready to see why this paddle sport is becoming a sensation in retirement communities across North America.
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What do you consider your greatest success in life?
I consider my greatest successes in life to revolve
around my family. I have been married to the same woman for 53 years. I have
two children and seven grandchildren. I try to be the best husband that I can
be, and I try my best to stay connected to my children and grandchildren as
much as possible. I also have two brothers, with whom I am very close, and a
handful of dear friends. I am honest, loyal, and trustworthy - as much as I can
be - in all of these relationships.
From a professional perspective, I have owned two
successful businesses and value many experiences and relationships from 45
years being in business.
During the past two years, I have been teaching and
writing about pickleball. As an instructor who has taught hundreds of people
how to play pickleball, I hope that I have instilled a love of the game and
helped them improve or at least provided a roadmap for improvement. With my
books, I hope that I have accomplished similar goals.
Although I am 76, I am still very active and pride myself
on being in good shape and taking care of myself, and I hope that I am somewhat
of a model and inspiration to others.
What one unique thing
sets you apart from other writers in your genre?
What separates me from other writers in my genre is that
I am not only a person who writes about pickleball, but I am also a competitive
pickleball player and a pickleball instructor. My passion for writing about
pickleball is an extension of my love for the sport and aligns with my passion for coaching, teaching,
and making a positive impact on others.
My greatest successes in life go beyond titles, trophies,
or personal accolades. It's found in the smiles, enthusiasm, and renewed energy
of the people I've introduced to the sport of pickleball. Writing “Pickleball
for Seniors” was an extension of that mission, enabling me to reach a broader
audience and help more people discover a game that can enhance their lives.
The
connections I've made, the barriers I've seen people overcome, and the
communities that have grown around this wonderful sport are what I'm most proud
of. Seeing someone who thought their days of playing sports were over, find joy
and camaraderie on the pickleball court, that's a great feeling and thrill.
It's about empowering others to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling
lives, and I'm grateful every day for the opportunity to be a part of that
journey.
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