St. Louis Shock Welcomes AJ Koller as Director of Amateur Development

St. Louis, MO – The St. Louis Shock is proud to announce the addition of AJ Koller as the organization’s Director of Amateur Development. Koller is a well-known, proven professional pickleball player with a unique playing style and deep roots in the St. Louis community. He is a full-time professional pickleball player who currently tours with the PPA and is a three-time PPA Champion, former Top 5 World Ranked player, and US Open Bronze medalist. Koller brings to the Shock a wealth of experience, passion, and innovation in his new role with the team.

As Director of Amateur Development for the St. Louis Shock, Koller will lead programs designed to elevate the skills and pickleball IQ of recreational, amateur, and pro players, intensely focused on growing the skillset of Shock fans and the St. Louis community. These efforts will include coaching sessions and clinics, training events, and other initiatives aimed at providing a world-class experience for players of all levels. The newly created role is a first for any MLP team.

Describing his style as “all wrist,” Koller attributes his strength and precision to his 16-year hockey career. Never seen on court without rolled-up sleeves and a backwards hat, he’s a player of few words but undeniable talent. Koller’s favorite shot—the lob—has gained traction among players, showcasing his ability to elevate even the simplest strategies with finesse and creativity.

Koller grew up in St. Louis but discovered pickleball in Las Vegas in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the sport. By 2019, he was competing in professional tournaments and making his mark on the pickleball world. Known for his signature crab walk along the kitchen line, lightning-fast hands, and lanky stature, Koller is both an imposing presence at the net and one of the most skilled defenders in the game.

He attended the University of Colorado: Boulder, where he played ice hockey for four years while earning a degree in civil engineering. Koller’s journey into pickleball stems from a desire to fulfill his potential in a racquet sport after leaving tennis behind in high school. Pickleball became the perfect avenue for him to explore and prove his athletic capabilities.

“We are thrilled to welcome AJ Koller to the St. Louis Shock in this pivotal role,” said Andrew Haines, Chief Operating Officer of the St. Louis Shock. “His unmatched experience on the court and his deep connection to St. Louis make him the perfect person to lead our efforts in amateur development and talent growth. AJ’s passion, energy and talent will inspire players and help us continue to grow the sport of pickleball in meaningful ways.”

Beginners, amateurs, and even pros can refine their skills through programs led by AJ - the Shock is excited to offer clinics and events led by Koller. These sessions will be tailored to help players of all levels improve their game while connecting with the vibrant pickleball community. Stay tuned for details and registration information at www.stlshock.com, where players and fans can directly purchase tickets to clinics and individual and group lessons led by Koller at various locations throughout St. Louis.

Koller’s new role reflects the Shock’s commitment to fostering the growth of pickleball at every level. Events and training sessions led by Koller will be announced soon, providing players in the region with exciting opportunities to learn from one of the game’s best.

For more information about the St. Louis Shock, visit www.stlshock.com.