New & Beginner
Find a club near you to learn today!
Ok So, What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is an addictive sport that’s easy to learn but hard to master. The fast-paced action, strategic play, and social atmosphere make it
incredibly fun for players of all ages and skill levels.
Welcome to Pickleball
First Timer? We’ve got you covered!
People you know are playing Pickleball – but you’re nervous about how to start, where to go, what to do – and how to learn. That’s what this intro program is all about! Giving you the pro-tips and basics to fall in love with your new favourite sport!
What You Learn In Beginner Programs & Lessons
Our Learn to Play sessions are designed to introduce beginners to the fundamentals of the game. Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn the basic rules, etiquette, techniques, and strategies to get you comfortable on the court. No experience or equipment is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and let’s play!
Essential Skills:
You’ll learn about controlling the game through soft-touch and things like: dinking, volleying and deep serves.
Basic Rules:
You’ll learn the key takeaways of serving diagonally, letting the ball bounce once on each side and who scores points and how.
Strategy:
You’ll learn strategies based on position, patience and consistency to gain advantage.
Equipment:
You’ll be shown some paddle types, the pickleballs and the appropriate budget-friendly court shoes and clothing.
No-Pressure - Just Have a Great Time
New & Beginner
Intro to Pickleball
This is a fun and interactive introduction to one of the fastest-growing sports in the world! This 1-hour session is true beginner friendly, and will help clear up all the basic things you need to know to start playing. No experience necessary!
What You’ll Learn:
- Paddle Selection & Demo – Try out different demo paddles to find the right size, weight, and grip for your playing style.
- Court Shoes & Gear – Learn why proper footwear matters and what equipment you’ll need to play safely and comfortably.
- Basic Game Knowledge. Learn about scoring, positioning, and key rules like the “two-bounce rule” and “non-volley zone” (the kitchen).
- Court Reservations and App – Get familiar with booking courts using the Pickleplex Social Club app.
LEAGUE
1-Week Beginner League
Ready to take your pickleball game to new heights? Pickleball 101 is designed for players who have a basic understanding of the game and want to deepen their skills. This program focuses on refining techniques, understanding game strategies, and developing consistency in your play. By the end of Pickleball 101, you’ll have the confidence and skills to join open play or compete in recreational leagues and/or tournaments.
LESSON / OPEN PLAY
First-Timer Fridays
Friday is the best day of the week, when you come out to meet, greet and learn the basics of Pickleball with other new players, just like you.
No-pros allowed! Just like-minded newbies!
Feel the Fun
Don’t take our word for it – hear it from the Pickleplex family. No matter what we can say, its hard to describe the energy, the excitement and the way people come together at Pickleplex. See it for yourself!
About Skill Levels & Ratings
At Pickleplex, you’ll see a lot of different levels in courts and online schedules. Here’s a brief introduction to player ratings.
Did You Know About Pickleball Ratings?
Pickleball uses a rating system to show how skilled a player is.
Ratings usually go from 1.0 (brand-new beginner) to 5.5 or higher (professional level). These ratings are based on how well a player hits the ball consistently, controls their shots, and uses smart strategies during games.
There are a few common rating systems, like DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), which tracks match results to estimate a player’s skill level.
Whoa, that’s sounding intense – but it doesn’t have to be! Beginners are encouraged to just learn and have fun!
Don’t know your rating? That’s ok.
Unsure of your skill level? We’re here to help! Our team can guide you through a simple assessment or recommend the best starting level so you can feel confident stepping on court. We also offer a variety of clinics designed to build your skills, improve your game, and help you progress at your own pace—all in a supportive, welcoming environment.
First Timer FAQ
At Pickleplex we want you to feel at home – from the very moment you step in the door. So there are absolutely no silly or awkward questions to ask. We have a few frequently asked questions here – to help you know more about what to expect.
Do I need a membership just to come and try pickleball?
No, you can absolutely try pickleball without a membership. Pickleplex is open to the public, and you can book courts and join programs.
I’m only a single player - is that ok?
Totally. Many people come on their own. Open play, intro classes, and beginner programs are designed to mix players in, so you’ll always have people to play with.
What Should I Wear?
There isn’t a strict dress code for pickleball, but most players wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows for easy movement.
Lightweight tops, shorts, or leggings are all great choices, along with proper court or indoor court shoes that provide good grip and support. The key is to dress for comfort, mobility, and safety so you can move freely and enjoy the game. Please ensure shoes are used for indoor play only and kept clean in order to maintain safe and clean courts!
I don’t own a paddle - how can I get one?
No problem. Paddles are available to use during lessons and beginner programs, so you don’t need to bring anything to get started.
How much do Beginner programs Cost?
Our Intro Classes are budget-friendly! Cost varies by location but most intro classes are just $10! Reach out to your nearest location to learn more.
You’re Not Having Enough Fun Until You Try Pickleball.
There’s Nothing Else Like It.
If you’ve never played a club sport or even Pickleball before – you’re in the right place! No judgement, no commitment needed, just fun and pickleball at your own pace and comfort at a beginner level. There’s really nothing to lose and everything to gain – from learning the fastest and most addictive sport called Pickleball.
