The Paseo Club has served the Santa Clarita community for over twenty years. Over the years, there have been several amazing staff and instructors who have come and gone. But a few have been pillars of the club. One of these essential members has been tennis and pickleball instructor Kenny “Coach KP” Puvogel.
Coach KP has been an athlete for nearly his entire life, but his first career took him down a very different path. He built a highly successful career at Warner Brothers Records, where he climbed the ranks from local promotion manager in New York to Vice President of Promotion and Marketing at the home office in Burbank. Along the way, he worked with and furthered the careers of legendary mega-platinum artists like George Harrison, Prince, Madonna, Van Halen, ZZ Top, REM, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty, the Traveling Wilburys, Ramones, Aerosmith, Neil Young, and even Frank Sinatra.
A chance backstage meeting with former world #1 Jim Courier at an R.E.M. concert deepened Coach KP’s connection to the tennis world. They hit it off, becoming good friends. Soon KP found himself immersed in the world of professional tennis. Behind the scenes, he learned from top pros, their coaches, trainers, and USTA referees. He sat in coaches’ boxes, and chatted with anyone eager to talk tennis — or music.
In this article, you will learn about Coach KP’s career as a coach, his role at the Paseo Club, and his recent health scare that almost took him out of the game permanently.
Coach KP’s Career in Coaching: Built on Passion, Dedication, and Impact
Cabo San Lucas
After 23 years at Warner Brothers, in 1997, Coach KP transitioned into an entirely new career, becoming the personal manager for rock legend Sammy Hagar, known for his time with Van Halen and his role in founding the iconic Cabo Wabo Cantina.
Living part-time in Cabo San Lucas, Sammy and Coach KP divided their time between Los Angeles and Cabo. Rock stars, as you can imagine, usually sleep and write during the day, so KP seized the opportunity to teach tennis. After late nights at Cabo Wabo, he’d cool off in the morning with a dip in the ocean before hitting the tennis court with his coach, Adan Bries, embracing the perfect balance of music, partying, relaxation, and sport in this unforgettable chapter of his life.
Over time, his love for tennis grew, along with his expertise and experience, which led him to pursue coaching more seriously. He started coaching part-time, beginning at the Adan Bries Tennis Academy and teaching tourists at neighboring resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It was there that he honed his skills and deepened his passion for the game, setting the stage for the next phase of his coaching journey.
The Santa Clarita Valley
In 2000, Coach KP transitioned to full-time coaching in the Santa Clarita Valley. He served as head coach at four local high schools and directed the summer high school tennis program at College of the Canyons, further establishing his reputation as a dedicated and skilled coach.
To enhance his qualifications, Coach KP pursued several certifications, including USPTA Pro, USTA Umpire, Prince and Babolat team member, and ASFA-certified personal trainer, always striving to provide the best coaching experience for his students.
The Paseo Club
In 2006, Coach KP brought his dynamic coaching style to the Paseo Club, offering private lessons and engaging drills. His passion for tennis and infectious energy quickly earned him the nickname “The Pied Piper of Tennis.” He became deeply involved in the children's programs, after-school academy, and summer camps, building a strong connection with the community.
In 2011, Coach KP returned to his native New York City for an exciting side gig, teaching at the prestigious Vanderbilt Tennis Club, hidden upstairs at Grand Central Station (bet you didn’t know there was a tennis court there!). He also taught at Riverside Clay (red clay), Sutton East, and Yorkville tennis clubs.
In 2013, driven by a compelling desire to return to the Paseo Club, Coach KP came back to reconnect with his students and members to continue sharing his experience. In 2014, he moved to the Atlanta area, where he coached at two elite tennis academies — Manor and Polo Tennis Clubs — further expanding his experience and expertise. In 2015, he returned to the Paseo Club (his second home) for good.
Coach KP’s Health and Wellness
Although Kenny has always been committed to his health and fitness, he faces an obstacle that can’t entirely be overcome — genetics. Kenny has a family history of heart disease.
Kenny met with his doctor regularly to monitor his health. His tests always showed that his cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes numbers and stress tests were normal — all great markers for good cardiovascular health.
Unfortunately, in 2009, his doctors discovered that two of his arteries were showing blockages, and they inserted two stents. Kenny recovered well from that procedure and continued to live his active lifestyle.
Fast-forward fifteen years to when Kenny began to notice stomach discomfort that couldn’t be traced to any changes in his diet. It felt like heartburn. To err on the safe side, he decided to get checked out by the cardiologist.
Coach KP’s Rude Awakening
When Kenny arrived for his EKG, the doctor couldn’t visualize anything out of the normal range. He told Kenny to return if the symptoms persisted. Kenny’s stomach pain went away for a few months, and he chalked it up to a fluke.
Until, three months later, those pesky tummy aches returned. Kenny went back to the cardiologist right away, where the doctor performed an angiogram. The angiogram is a medical procedure that uses dye and X-rays to visualize blood vessels, allowing doctors to assess blood flow and identify problems such as narrowings or blockages.
When the doctor could not get the dye to flow through Kenny’s veins, he knew there was a serious problem. Kenny had been active and feeling great, so at the worst, he thought he might be in for another stent. However, he was sorely wrong.
Kenny’s doctor, knowing how stubborn he could be, didn’t mince words. “I know you’re not going to believe me, but we have a serious problem. You’re not going to the gym or tennis today. You’re going upstairs to be checked into the hospital and scheduled for triple bypass surgery.” Kenny was left shocked, stunned, and speechless. Three of his arteries were 90% clogged, and he was scheduled for the surgery.
Recovering and Returning to Life
Triple bypass surgery is no small feat. It typically takes surgeons three to six hours to complete and requires opening the ribs to access the heart. While Kenny’s arteries were in poor condition, his doctor remarked that his healthy, active lifestyle had kept his heart as strong as that of a twenty-year-old. This vitality played a crucial role in his successful recovery.
Now, nine weeks post-op, Kenny’s energy and stamina are steadily returning to normal. He’s eager to get back to his students and community.
As of March 10, Coach KP is offering private lessons and all his favorite drills once again at the Paseo Club.
Coach KP earned his Pickleball Coach certification in March 2024 and is now teaching Pickleball Starters at the Paseo Club. This comes from a devoted tennis player who once swore he would never play pickleball. However, recognizing it as the country’s fastest-growing sport, he gave it a try — and was surprised by how much he enjoyed it. The fun and excitement of the game quickly won him over.
Final thoughts from Coach KP: “The Proof is in the Passion”
Coach KP’s health scare inspired him to share some important advice with his co-workers, students and members:
Eat well and exercise regularly: Take care of your health through balanced nutrition and consistent physical activity.
Get checked out if something feels off: If you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Get checked out sooner rather than later — especially if you’re a man, as you’re statistically more likely to ignore symptoms.
Acknowledge your genetic risks: Being active and fit doesn’t mean you’re immune to health issues. Genetics plays a big role in how your body ages and the diseases you may be predisposed to.
Get regular check-ups: Make sure to schedule routine visits with your doctor to stay on top of your health.
Prioritize sleep: Rest is essential for recovery, mental clarity, and overall health.
Stay hydrated: Water plays a crucial role in your energy levels and bodily functions, so drink plenty throughout the day.
And most importantly, have fun: Life is too short not to enjoy the journey. Make time for activities that bring you joy and laughter.
Coach KP’s doctor told him that the surgery had given him another twenty years. If we are lucky, a big part of that time will be spent teaching at the club and enjoying the company of fellow members. We’re thrilled to have the “Ambassador to Tennis” back with us!
To see Coach KP in action, register for one of his drills today. Purchasing classes in packs is a great way to save — 5-pack $110, 10-pack $220, and 20-pack $360.
- Rise and Shine - Saturday 8 am
- Rise and Shine - Sunday 10 am
- Trifecta - Monday 9 am
- Trifecta - Wednesday 9 am
- Trifecta - Wednesday 6 pm
- Trifecta - Thursday 6 pm
- Trifecta - Saturday 10 am
- Adult Starters - Tuesday 6 pm (Free)
- Adult Starters - Thursday 9 am (Free)
- Adult Starters - Sunday 9 am (Free)
- Adult Pickleball Starters - Saturday 11 am
The Paseo Club has fitness, Pilates, pickleball, swimming, and tennis facilities, so you can enjoy multiple ways of being active and fit. Social events happen weekly. Meet members, relax, and have fun.
Not yet a member? Join today and get instant access to all eight acres of the club. You can also learn more by attending the Paseo Palooza on March 21, 22, and 23. The Paseo Club is your home away from home. We can’t wait to see you!
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