
Bluffton / Hilton Head
The Largest Premier Indoor Pickleball
Facility in the Low Country!
Opening Early
2025
Meet the Pro's and Instructors
Jamie Schrier Whiting – Director of Instruction & Pickleball Pro
Jamie Schrier Whiting, our Pro & Youth Director at The Local Pickle, is an accomplished pickleball professional with a strong background in both competition and coaching. With degrees in both Physical Education and Psychology, Jamie’s diverse background includes a 15-year career as a golf pro in Maryland and an exceptional focus on children’s development and sports coaching.
Jamie’s career in pickleball is highlighted by her role as the Head Pro at Palmetto Dunne’s, where she led the facility to be recognized as the #1 pickleball teaching center and ranked in the Top 10 on the East Coast for four consecutive years.
As a competitive athlete, Jamie has secured numerous Gold medals in women's doubles and mixed doubles at the US Open, and she consistently qualifies for nationals each year. Her passion for the game and her exceptional teaching ability makes her an invaluable asset to our team and our members.
Jamie’s love for family-owned facilities and her dedication to the sport are evident in every aspect of her work. We are thrilled that Jamie has chosen "The Local Pickle" to continue her career, and we are confident that her expertise will help elevate our community's pickleball experience.



Beginners
Find Your Core
Merritt Wilburn, Asst. Director of Operations & Pickleball Pro
​
Merritt, is a born and raised local tennis player of Hilton Head Island. Merritt played junior tennis with the southern& national divisions which grew into the level of Division 1 tennis where he played at The Citadel. He moved on his sophomore year and moved to Oregon where Merritt found his passion for addiction/life coaching. He required his CADC Certification in Oregon and worked within the addiction field for 3/4 years.
Merritt’s career in pickleball started at Widgi Creek Pickleball in Bend, Oregon where he taught for almost 2 years. Merritt brings his tennis background into the way he teaches his clinics, private lessons, and camps. Merritt loves bringing high energy to the court with a focus on the fundamental teaching.
Competitively Merritt has won medals in 4.5, 5.0 and open tournaments! Merritt also has traveled for many pro qualifiers for APP/PPA and plans to continue travel to these events throughout the country with overall goal to qualify and play at the highest level! Merritt is incredibly skilled in court knowledge and loves the game of pickleball. Whether it be the person picking a paddle up for the first time or the 4.5/5.0 player, Merritt will ecstatic to walk you through your pickleball process!
​



Mick Baiocchetti, Pickleball Pro
​
Mick is a versatile athlete with a strong background in hockey, soccer, and tennis during his school years. Since moving to Hilton Head, he has excelled in pickleball, achieving notable success with Silver and Bronze medals at the 4.5 level. With prior coaching experience in soccer & hockey as well as a deep passion for pickleball, Mick brings valuable expertise and enthusiasm to The Local Pickle team, where he will continue to make a significant impact on both players and the pickleball community.
​



Nancy Herbst, CEO & Instructor
​
Nancy brings a wealth of experience, professionalism, and a deep-rooted commitment to community service to our new pickleball club. Originally from Connecticut, Nancy and her family moved to our vibrant community in 2018, where she discovered her passion for pickleball.
Actively engaged in the local pickleball community, Nancy participates in both fun matches and competitive tournaments. Her dedication and skill have earned her medals at the 4.0 level in pickleball, a testament to her talent and hard work. Nancy is also certified through the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR), underscoring her expertise and commitment to the sport.
Nancy's enthusiasm for pickleball is matched by her dedication to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment at the club. She looks forward to sharing her love for the game and helping others enjoy all that pickleball has to offer.


