If you're new to pickleball or have recently begun to research the game, you may have a number of questions. This paddle game with the funny name has gained in popularity in recent years, but it's still not a household word. You've probably found a place near your home to play or been introduced to one by friends. However, branching out into new pickleball court locations can be difficult due to the sport's relatively unknown status.
Where can I play pickleball? Finding places to play pickleball near you or when you're traveling can seem like a bit of a mystery. There are resources out there that can provide you with the information you need. Surprisingly, you may find there a network of truly dedicated fans to connect you with tons of resources. This article will give you a summary and point you in the right direction. Keep reading to discover how to find pickleball courts anywhere you want to play.
About Pickleball
First, let's take a look at the sport to provide a quick summary for those true newbies. Pickleball is a paddle sport that can be played by people of all ages. It's also appealing because it can be enjoyed even if you're not particularly skilled at the game. Thus, it's perfect for beginners and advanced players alike. The game is played using a paddle and a plastic ball that has holes in it. Pickleball is a bit of a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It's played on a court similar to that of a badminton court. The net is a modified tennis net, and the game can be played either indoors or out. In addition, you can play with doubles or singles.
Courts Are Expanding
The USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) estimates there are more than 15,000 pickleball courts across the country, both indoor and outdoor. That's quite a lot, and the number is expanding as the sport's popularity grows. Schools are introducing it to kids at younger ages, and folks are picking up the game in retirement. People across the lifespan are discovering it's a fun way to get some exercise and socialize. Some players are quite competitive, but the game itself appeals to a wide variety of individuals. Thus, you can expect to see even more construction of new courts catering to various populations. Finding pickleball courts is easy once you know where to look:
- USAPA Places2Play Website
The USAPA continually updates locations for playing pickleball on their website. They have a specific page, Places2Play, where you can find the latest information such as address and other information relevant to the venue. You can do a filtered search by various criteria such as name, city, state, or zip code.
- USAPA Places2Play App
If you prefer to have the information easily at your fingertips, you can always download the Places2Play app through the Apple App Store. Currently, the app is only available on the iPhone, unfortunately. If you're an iPhone user, you're in luck. Just download the app and make sure your location services are turned on in your settings. Then, you can find places to play pickleball near you wherever you are. If you'd prefer not to have location services roaming in the background, you could always just enter your zip code into the app to retrieve a list of nearby courts.
- USAPA Ambassadors
The USA Pickleball Association truly is a wealth of information when it comes to this game. Its members are dedicated enthusiasts, and the organization maintains a website that's chockful of everything you need to know. In fact, they have a team of dedicated volunteer members who have agreed to promote the game in their local areas. These USAPA ambassadors are the perfect source for finding useful tidbits, including where to find a court near you. Head to the website's database to search the ambassador list by location, keyword, ambassador name or zip code, and you'll be on your way to finding what you seek.
- YMCA or Community Centers
You could also just do a web search for "pickleball court near me" and likely get a few results. Otherwise, calling your local YMCA or community center is a good place to find a pickleball court to play on. They may have a dedicated court or perhaps offer play times during off-peak hours on their tennis courts.
- Tennis Centers
It also makes sense that dedicated tennis centers or courts might offer pickleball options. Check out the websites or centers near you or give them a call to find out. Many of these venues have entered into the pickleball market as added revenue source and offer modified courts for pickleball use. You can typically purchase a monthly membership or play a per-game price.
- Pickleball Venues
It's possible your city or town has its own dedicated pickleball center, as the sport has grown so much in popularity recently. Ask around or do a quick Google search to determine whether there is such a facility near you. You might be surprised to find that there is. They are becoming more common, especially in larger cities.
- Facebook Groups
When in doubt, head to your favorite social media platform. Specifically, Facebook groups are a fantastic way to connect with other pickleball lovers and find places to play wherever you happen to be geographically. Search in the Facebook query box for "pickleball" along with your location. This should yield you a number of results in your area. Not only will you find out where to play, you're also likely to connect with a network of potential partners and a place to find answers to all your questions.
Hopefully, you now have an idea of where you can play pickleball. Finding a pickleball court isn't as daunting as it may seem. There are lots of resources out there to help you and people who are just as excited about the game as you are. Get out there and explore all this unique game has to offer, and have fun!