Meet The BPC team

Sam Khalid, Director

Sam is a passionate, 5.5+ rated player who is dedicated to expanding the sport within his community and sharing his enthusiasm with others. With extensive tournament experience, he has achieved podium finishes in the 5.0+ skill division and notably came close to causing an upset in a thrilling match during the men’s pro doubles at Beer City 2023. He's earned a reputation as a serious competitor in the area and is sponsored by Pro Xr. As a coach, Sam has mentored numerous players from beginners to advanced levels. He has experience running successful league play and tournaments and will use his knowledge and expertise to ensure high quality, exciting programming at BPC. Sam has a unique skill set that can help any player elevate their game while bringing a premium experience to the members of Brighton Pickleball Club.

Chris Walker, pro

Chris Walker is a distinguished pickleball professional, known for his dynamic transition from a successful tennis career. A former collegiate tennis player at Michigan State University, Chris honed his competitive edge and strategic acumen on the court, later channeling his expertise into coaching. His passion for racket sports led him to excel in Paddle Tennis (Pop Tennis), where he secured a top-10 finish at the US Open National Paddle Championships and earned the title of two-time Paddle Tennis Beach National Champion. Now a formidable presence on the pickleball scene, Chris competes professionally on both the APP and PPA tours, proudly sponsored by CRBN and Leorêver. Among his notable achievements in pickleball, Chris clinched a silver medal at the APP Dallas Shootout, marking his best finish to date. His journey from tennis to pickleball reflects a commitment to excellence and a deep love for the sport, making him a sought-after coach and competitor in the growing world of pickleball.

Allison Worthy, pro

Allison is a high level pickleball player from Brighton. She’s competed and won 5.0 level tournaments in women’s and mixed doubles and is a force to be reckoned with on the court. Originally a tennis player, she has experience teaching both tennis and pickleball. Off the court, Allison is a kindergarten teacher. Her experience working with young children has given her a special ability to connect with her students and foster a love for pickleball in them. She finds joy in watching young athletes develop their skills and enthusiasm for the game. Allison brings a level of focus and commitment to the game that will benefit players of all ages and abilities.

Mike smith, Pro

Mike is a PPR certified teaching professional who has been playing pickleball since 2012. He has medaled numerous times in both men’s and mixed divisions across the state of Michigan. What sets Mike apart is his unwavering enthusiasm and pure joy he brings to the game of pickleball. He energizes those around him and imparts his wisdom in a fun, engaging manner. If you are looking to learn the game or fine tune your skills, Mike will make sure you do so all while having a blast on the court.

Joan Fitzgibbon, Pro

A certified PPR instructor who loves sharing her knowledge of the sport with others, Joan has been playing pickleball for the past five years, both recreationally and in tournaments across Michigan and Florida. A former teacher and longtime principal for the Ann Arbor Public Schools -- and a lifelong sports enthusiast -- Joan considers teaching pickleball a natural extension of her career and her passion. When she is not on the courts, Joan enjoys woodworking, gardening, boating, and engaging in water sports on the Portage Chain she calls home.

Jack Lapan, Pro

Jack is revolutionizing the game of pickleball one player at a time. For Jack, pickleball isn’t just about hitting a ball; it’s about passion, community, and embracing the spirit of the game. Welcoming players of all ages and skill levels, Jack is dedicated to enhancing skills, strategy, and camaraderie on the court. Every serve and rally is more than a game—it’s a celebration of health and vitality. With Jack’s coaching, you’re not just playing—you’re elevating your life. Prepare to engage, grow, and triumph. Each shot is a step toward greatness, and every session is an investment in a healthier, more vibrant you.

Denny Dahlman, PRO

Denny played varsity tennis at Eastern Michigan in the early70’s. In the mid 70’s he became the first person from Michigan to Officiate Hockey full time at the highest pro level. Denny has won several medals in Pickleball, including the Michigan Senior Olympics Gold. He became a certified PPR coach in 2023 and is the director of Pickleball at Oak Pointe Country Club. Denny is a Level 2 Certified Pickleball Referee. He brings a passion for the game to each training session, while going the extra mile. He teaches out of Bonita Springs, Florida during the winter months. Denny has been a Selkirk team advocate for the past 3 years.

Jen Defenderfer, PRO

Jen is a PPR certified pickleball coach and an enthusiast since 2015. Recognizing that “pickleball changed my life”, she treasures the community this sport creates and hopes to share the fun and infectious nature of this game. As a member of the Brighton community for nearly 30 years, she's excited to see many new and familiar faces out on the courts. Jen is a fun, encouraging and energetic instructor who makes learning the game even more fun for those around her.

LUCAS PEREYRA, PRO

As a dedicated pickleball coach, Lucas initially began his journey with soccer, where he developed a strong foundation in athletic skills and teamwork. However, his passion for sports took a new direction when he discovered pickleball. His love for the game quickly grew, leading him to compete at a high level. Lucas has won multiple gold medals in tournaments including Gold at 5.0 App Cincinnati. Lucas' commitment to excellence in pickleball and beyond makes him an excellent addition to the BPC Team.

Fadi Nadar, pro

Passion. This is what Fadi is all about! As a U of M graduate in Mathematics with a minor in communications, Fadi has always aspired to be a teacher, share his learnings with others, and throughout the process, witness the success & growth of his peers. Fast forward to today, he is now able to do exactly that as he has completed the PPR study course and has acquired his pickleball certification. His immense love for the sport of pickleball is undeniable. Playing only a little over 1 year, he’s already made a splash within the pickleball community, obtaining multiple medals in mixed and men’s doubles. He also has a current DUPR rating of over 4.5. Fadi puts his all into everything he does, and he looks forward to channeling that into helping you improve your game.

Kyle Worthy, pro

Kyle is a long-time resident of Brighton and has been playing pickleball for over 10 years. He is a seasoned PPR certified instructor with a 5.0 rating. He has secured 5.0 tournament titles across the country, including recently at the prestigious US Open, underscoring his competitive edge and skill on the court. Beyond teaching, he is deeply involved in the pickleball community, running tournaments that bring together players of all levels to compete and enjoy the game. Off the court, Kyle is a Certified Financial Planner Professional, and Director of Retirement Plans at Spartan Wealth Management.

Will Sophiea, visiting pro

Will is our visiting pro from Richland Country Club in Nashville, TN. He's a Michigan native who moved to Nashville in the summer of 2021 with his wife Lauren. Will works as a IPTPA certified pickleball professional and a USPTA and PTR certified tennis professional. Before his move, Will was the boys and girls school tennis coach at Holly High School. He was voted Coach of the year for the State of Michigan in 2015 and 2017. Will is gifted in working with all ages, abilities and experience levels. He is enthusiastic and patient and simply enjoys helping people become the best version of themselves. While tennis was Will's first love, he feels pickleball has reinvigorated his passion for teaching and he brings that energy each and every time he steps on the court.

Aven Lapan, next gen player & Certified coach

Aven Lapan is a PCI certified coach who resides in Brighton. At just 15 years old and as a student at Brighton High School, Aven brings a youthful yet seasoned approach to the game. His passion for the sport is as infectious as it is inclusive -- his coaching experience spans age groups from elementary to those in their 80s. As a black belt in taekwondo, Aven's focus and character shines brightly on and off the court. He's a compassionate guide who is dedicated to not just honing your skills but also building your love for the game. Aven brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to his clients that will enhance your game and enrich your life.

Brayden Brown, next gen player & Junior coach

Brayden is a junior player who is quickly advancing in the pickleball world. At 14 years old, he is a 4.0 rated player who competes locally and nationally. When he's not working on his own game, you can find him coaching other juniors and helping run classes. He plays an important role in the BPC mission of bringing more young players into the game through his work with other juniors and young kids. Brayden is fun, encouraging and energetic and is a fantastic addition to the BPC team.