Spades & Company is proud to share that our founder recently attended the ACBL Best Practices Teacher Certification Program at the Spring Nationals in St. Louis, earning recognition as an accredited bridge instructor.

This comprehensive, multi-day workshop focuses on how to teach rather than what to teach, emphasizing adult learning techniques, student engagement, and long-term retention. One of the most important principles of this training is moving players into duplicate bridge as soon as possible—a philosophy we wholeheartedly embrace to help players build confidence and improve their skills through meaningful bridge games.

As an ACBL Best Practices Accredited Teacher, our founder, Norrie Thomas, is excited to soon introduce a beginning bridge class in Plymouth, Minnesota. These upcoming bridge lessons are designed to help participants learn to play bridge quickly, allowing them to experience the joy of the game from the very first hand.

While players can begin enjoying the game immediately, bridge remains a lifelong adventure where learning never truly ends. As one of our players recently shared, “This game is the highlight of my week,” a sentiment that beautifully captures the sense of connection and fulfillment bridge provides and Spades & Company looks to cultivate in our dedicated bridge space in Plymouth, Minnesota.

The ACBL Best Practices program includes three hands-on modules totaling 12 hours, along with certification requirements such as a bridge knowledge pre-test and a teaching proficiency demonstration. Accredited teachers are recognized on the ACBL website, receive a special lapel pin and marketing logo, and gain access to valuable teaching resources and a supportive professional community. The program emphasizes making learning fun, reducing the fear of competition, and encouraging early participation in bridge tournaments, all of which align perfectly with the mission of Spades & Company.

At Spades & Company, teaching bridge is truly a joy. Watching players grow in confidence, form lasting friendships, and celebrate their successes is at the heart of everything we do. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where individuals in and around Plymouth, Minnesota, can stay engaged, make meaningful connections, and continue advancing in the game.

We look forward to welcoming new and returning players to experience the excitement and lifelong rewards of bridge.