Meet Your Soleil Coaches

Come chase the sun with us.

Jason Weidman

Pickleball Coach

Jason is a distinguished athlete who has made a notable impact in the world of Pickleball. A former Head Women’s Tennis Coach at the University of Mary, he transitioned seamlessly into Pickleball, where he has earned multiple medals in the US Open, as well as strong finishes in both the PPA and APP tours. A US National Medalist and ranked among the top 20 players in the Mountain Region, Jason is recognized for his elite skill, competitive drive, and consistent performance under pressure.

John Hedberg

Pickleball Coach

John, is a professional pickleball player with the Columbus Hotshots in the National Pickleball League. With roots in tennis and ping pong, he quickly found success in pickleball, earning titles like 2025 Las Vegas Senior Pro Gold Medalist and US Open Senior Pro Finalist. Known for his smart play and coaching skills, John is a respected competitor and mentor who brings passion and experience to every match.

Melinda Wilkins

Pickleball Coach

Melinda is a highly accomplished Pickleball athlete with over seven years of competitive experience. A national champion, she has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, earning multiple gold medals in both mixed and women’s divisions. Her versatility and consistent performance have made her a standout in the sport. Most recently, she secured a top-6 finish in a women’s pro APP tournament, further reinforcing her status as one of the sport’s leading competitors.

Ryan Wilkins

Pickleball Coach

Ryan brings a lifelong background in high-level athletics—including football, basketball, and collegiate baseball—to his career in Pickleball. Competing at the 5.0 and professional levels for the past five years, he has earned multiple medal finishes in both men’s and mixed doubles. Alongside his wife Melinda, Ryan offers individual and group instruction, focusing on both foundational skills and advanced game strategies. His passion for Pickleball and commitment to helping others improve make him a valued coach for players looking to elevate their game.

Matt Garcia

Pickleball Coach

Matt is a passionate advocate for Pickleball and plays an active role in the thriving St. George, Utah community. Committed to growing the sport, he aims to share the energy and talent of St. George by traveling and introducing its elite players to new cities. Through these efforts, Matt hopes to foster greater connection within the Pickleball community, promote high-level play, and inspire more people to experience the sport he loves.

Jason Weidman

Pickleball Coach

Jason is a distinguished athlete who has made a notable impact in the world of Pickleball. A former Head Women’s Tennis Coach at the University of Mary, he transitioned seamlessly into Pickleball, where he has earned multiple medals in the US Open, as well as strong finishes in both the PPA and APP tours. A US National Medalist and ranked among the top 20 players in the Mountain Region, Jason is recognized for his elite skill, competitive drive, and consistent performance under pressure.

John Hedberg

Pickleball Coach

John, is a professional pickleball player with the Columbus Hotshots in the National Pickleball League. With roots in tennis and ping pong, he quickly found success in pickleball, earning titles like 2025 Las Vegas Senior Pro Gold Medalist and US Open Senior Pro Finalist. Known for his smart play and coaching skills, John is a respected competitor and mentor who brings passion and experience to every match.

Melinda Wilkins

Pickleball Coach

Melinda is a highly accomplished Pickleball athlete with over seven years of competitive experience. A national champion, she has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, earning multiple gold medals in both mixed and women’s divisions. Her versatility and consistent performance have made her a standout in the sport. Most recently, she secured a top-6 finish in a women’s pro APP tournament, further reinforcing her status as one of the sport’s leading competitors.

Ryan Wilkins

Pickleball Coach

Ryan brings a lifelong background in high-level athletics—including football, basketball, and collegiate baseball—to his career in Pickleball. Competing at the 5.0 and professional levels for the past five years, he has earned multiple medal finishes in both men’s and mixed doubles. Alongside his wife Melinda, Ryan offers individual and group instruction, focusing on both foundational skills and advanced game strategies. His passion for Pickleball and commitment to helping others improve make him a valued coach for players looking to elevate their game.

Matt Garcia

Pickleball Coach

Matt is a passionate advocate for Pickleball and plays an active role in the thriving St. George, Utah community. Committed to growing the sport, he aims to share the energy and talent of St. George by traveling and introducing its elite players to new cities. Through these efforts, Matt hopes to foster greater connection within the Pickleball community, promote high-level play, and inspire more people to experience the sport he loves.

SOLEIL [SO-LAY]

Soleil is the French word for sun—a symbol of warmth, energy, and light. More than just the star at the center of our solar system, soleil evokes a sense of joy, brightness, and positivity. Whether it’s the glow of a perfect day or the spirit of someone who lights up a room, soleil reminds us to live radiantly and bring warmth to everything we do.