Riley Palmer
Director of Pickleball
Riley "Smiley Riley" Palmer is recognized and influential coaches in pickleball, known for combining high-level instruction, strategic player development, and an unmatched ability to build thriving pickleball communities.
As the Director of Pickleball and Head Professional at Dink & Dine Pickle Park in Arizona, Riley oversees one of the fastest-growing pickleball programs in the country, leading player development, programming, events, leagues, tournaments, memberships, and staff training. Under her leadership, thousands of players of all ages and skill levels have improved their games while discovering the joy and connection that make pickleball unique.
A Certified Professional Coach through the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR), DUPR Certified Coach, RPO Certified Coach, and USA Pickleball District Ambassador, Riley has coached more than 3,300 players and competed in over 24 national tournaments, including events hosted by the APP, PPA, and USA Pickleball.
Beyond the court, Riley is a nationally recognized speaker, entrepreneur, and pickleball industry leader. She has been featured on major stages including the Global Racquet Conference and has been recognized among the Top 50 Most Influential People in Pickleball. Her innovative pickleball experiences—including luxury international pickleball yacht charters in Croatia and Greece—have attracted players from around the world and generated millions of social media views.
Riley's coaching philosophy blends technical excellence, tactical intelligence, and positive energy. Whether working with beginners, competitive tournament players, juniors, corporate groups, or aspiring professionals, her goal remains the same: helping every player build confidence, improve faster, and enjoy the game at a higher level.
Known throughout the pickleball community as "Smiley Riley," she believes pickleball has the power to transform lives, create meaningful relationships, and bring people together both on and off the court.
Certifications & Leadership
- Director of Pickleball, Dink & Dine Pickle Park
- Certified Professional Pickleball Coach (PPR)
- DUPR Certified Coach
- RPO Certified Coach
- USA Pickleball District Ambassador
- Competitive Junior Program Director
- International Pickleball Travel Host
Career Highlights
- Coached 3,300+ players
- Competed in 24+ national tournaments
- Built and led multiple successful pickleball programs
- Featured speaker at industry conferences
Recognized among the Top 50 Most Influential People in Pickleball
- Host of international luxury pickleball experiences in Croatia and Greece
"My mission is to help players unlock their potential, build confidence, and create lifelong memories through the sport that changed my life." — Riley Palmer