Smiley Riley: Energy, Passion, and the Warmest Smile on Court
Smiley Riley: Energy, Passion, and the Warmest Smile on Court
We instantly connected with her story, her passion, and her entrepreneurial spirit. Riley Palmer doesn’t just teach pickleball—she lives it with her whole heart and shares it with unstoppable enthusiasm.
She’s a true human battery, one that never seems to run out of energy. A certified coach and, what’s more impressive, a mother of three girls, a dedicated homemaker, a lifelong volunteer… and on top of all that, the founder and soul behind Smiley Riley Pickleball.
Based at the iconic JW Marriott Desert Ridge—one of the hotspots for pickleball in the U.S.—Riley juggles calls, emails, WhatsApp messages, and social media like a pro. Yes, she definitely has energy! And she does it with the warmest, most contagious smile on any court.
In this edition, we’re excited to introduce you to this amazing woman, who shines not only for her experience and skills, but for the genuine love she pours into everything she does. Riley is living proof that when you combine passion, purpose, and great vibes, there’s no net that can stop you.
This is Smiley Riley in her own words:
LOVE PICKLEBALL?
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“I’m Riley Palmer, aka Smiley Riley. I’m deeply passionate about pickleball. With over four years of coaching experience, I oversee kids’ summer camps and serve as head pro coach at the renowned JW Marriott Desert Ridge, a hub for pickleball enthusiasts.
My coaching journey spans large and small clinics across the United States, Mexico, and Croatia.
Beyond pickleball, I’m a proud parent to three daughters actively engaged in pickleball, soccer, and volleyball—sports I’ve supported them in for years. For over 15 years, I’ve volunteered as a Girl Scout leader and Sunday school teacher, cherishing every moment.
My commitment to pickleball extends beyond coaching—I’ve competed in more than 15 national tournaments across singles, gender doubles, and mixed doubles events.
My enthusiasm lies in nurturing youth programs and fostering a love for pickleball in the next generation.
At Smiley Riley Pickleball, I offer a personalized coaching experience that’s as much about having fun as it is about improving your game.
With years of experience and a passion for the sport, I bring a positive, energetic, and sunshine-filled approach to everything I do.
Whether you’re looking for individual lessons, group sessions, corporate events, or a pickleball vacation, I’m here to make sure your experience is memorable, exciting, and full of positive energy.
I’m known for having a smile that can light up any court, and it’s that energy I infuse into every coaching session.
I believe in making learning fun, leaving each client with a huge smile and a feeling of accomplishment.
Whether you’re a competitive player or just starting out, I focus on building your confidence, improving your skills, and making sure you have a blast along the way.”
Smiley Riley: Energy, Passion, and the Warmest Smile on Court
We instantly connected with her story, her passion, and her entrepreneurial spirit. Riley Palmer doesn’t just teach pickleball—she lives it with her whole heart and shares it with unstoppable enthusiasm.
She’s a true human battery, one that never seems to run out of energy. A certified coach and, what’s more impressive, a mother of three girls, a dedicated homemaker, a lifelong volunteer… and on top of all that, the founder and soul behind Smiley Riley Pickleball.
Based at the iconic JW Marriott Desert Ridge—one of the hotspots for pickleball in the U.S.—Riley juggles calls, emails, WhatsApp messages, and social media like a pro. Yes, she definitely has energy! And she does it with the warmest, most contagious smile on any court.
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Dink Authority Magazine – April 2026
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In this edition, we’re excited to introduce you to this amazing woman, who shines not only for her experience and skills, but for the genuine love she pours into everything she does. Riley is living proof that when you combine passion, purpose, and great vibes, there’s no net that can stop you.
This is Smiley Riley in her own words:
LOVE PICKLEBALL?
Get Dink Authority Magazine updates, new editions, pro stories and event alerts.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.
“I’m Riley Palmer, aka Smiley Riley. I’m deeply passionate about pickleball. With over four years of coaching experience, I oversee kids’ summer camps and serve as head pro coach at the renowned JW Marriott Desert Ridge, a hub for pickleball enthusiasts.
My coaching journey spans large and small clinics across the United States, Mexico, and Croatia.
Beyond pickleball, I’m a proud parent to three daughters actively engaged in pickleball, soccer, and volleyball—sports I’ve supported them in for years. For over 15 years, I’ve volunteered as a Girl Scout leader and Sunday school teacher, cherishing every moment.
My commitment to pickleball extends beyond coaching—I’ve competed in more than 15 national tournaments across singles, gender doubles, and mixed doubles events.
My enthusiasm lies in nurturing youth programs and fostering a love for pickleball in the next generation.
At Smiley Riley Pickleball, I offer a personalized coaching experience that’s as much about having fun as it is about improving your game.
With years of experience and a passion for the sport, I bring a positive, energetic, and sunshine-filled approach to everything I do.
Whether you’re looking for individual lessons, group sessions, corporate events, or a pickleball vacation, I’m here to make sure your experience is memorable, exciting, and full of positive energy.
I’m known for having a smile that can light up any court, and it’s that energy I infuse into every coaching session.
I believe in making learning fun, leaving each client with a huge smile and a feeling of accomplishment.
Whether you’re a competitive player or just starting out, I focus on building your confidence, improving your skills, and making sure you have a blast along the way.”
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