Ty Schowe, owner of Saltwater Tennis Academy (www.saltwatertennisacademy.com), knows that if you’ve ever taken tennis, pickleball, or golf lessons, you know there’s a big difference between group and private instruction. The same goes for physical therapy, school tutoring, swimming, gymnastics—pretty much anything that can be taught. Private coaching simply accelerates learning.

 

Coach Ty has lived in both worlds. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, he spent over a decade teaching at a tennis academy that catered to the masses. But he longed for a more personal, focused approach—because he understood that kids and adults learn best one-on-one. Instead of prioritizing the profit margins of large group programs, where long lines, limited coach interaction, and fewer reps per hour are common, he chose to focus on player development. Ty believes that “one player, many coaches”—or smaller class sizes—leads to faster improvement.

 

As a high schooler in Denver, Ty was a competitive poker player and avid snowboarder. He also played for state and national championship teams in both soccer and hockey. His dad was born and raised in St. Petersburg, and after visiting his mom on St. Pete Beach, Ty fell in love with the community and lifestyle. So, after more than ten years of teaching under the guidance of Frank Adams and directing multiple youth development programs, he moved to Florida to open his own academy.

 

Saltwater Tennis Academy was founded in 2024 to provide private tennis and pickleball instruction for both kids and adults. Ty holds contracts to teach on City of Pinellas Park and Broderick Park Recreation Center courts. Due to growing demand, he recently opened public drills at Denver Park. He also organizes tournaments and events for local businesses, blending his love for tennis and pickleball. One recent event was held at the private pickleball courts behind Ferg’s in downtown St. Pete.

 

Though the courts are concrete, Ty emphasizes injury prevention through good footwork, soft knees, and smart technique. These reduce the risk of ankle, knee, or elbow issues. He focuses heavily on transitions, body positioning, and movement quality—especially when changing speeds.

 

Ty teaches the full range of ages, from tots (starting around age 5) to seniors. He leads beginner drills Tuesday and Friday mornings, emphasizing structure, balance, and agility. He also works with competitive juniors, including middle and high school players. His coaching goes beyond strokes and strategy—he weaves in fitness, nutrition, motor development, and cognitive training to create well-rounded athletes in all age groups.

 

Most mornings and evenings, you’ll find Ty on-court, connecting with new clients. He’s also expanding into social media and building visibility through outlets like Stroll magazine and the Bayou Club.

 

Certified in 2009, Ty has logged more than 15,000 hours of teaching experience. He picked up pickleball five or six years ago—before outdoor courts were common in Pinellas County—and began offering instruction as local interest surged. He now gives advanced lessons and also teaches beginner pickleball classes on Wednesday mornings.

If you want to improve your pickleball or tennis game, contact Ty and give him a try!  You can reach him at (303) 908-4261.