How to Launch a Pickleball Pilot Programme at Schools in SA

Why Pickleball Makes Sense in Schools

• Low barrier to entry: only paddles, balls, and a court needed
  
  

• Safe and inclusive — suitable for varying fitness levels
  
  

• Encourages teamwork, social play, and physical literacy
  
  

• Opportunity to feed new players into local clubs
  
  

According to recent market research, South Africa’s pickleball market is projected to grow over 23% annually through 2029. (Bona Fide Research) With nearly 50 clubs already active, the infrastructure is in place to support this expansion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a School Pilot

1. Secure stakeholder buy-in
   Present to school leadership, sports coordinators, and parent groups. Emphasise the affordability and inclusive nature of the sport. Provide examples of other schools successfully introducing pickleball.
   
   

2. Repurpose existing spaces
   Convert underused tennis or netball courts with basic line marking and temporary nets. A single tennis court can be transformed into four pickleball courts, making it an efficient use of space.
   
   

3. Acquire essential gear
   Start with beginner-friendly equipment such as the JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddles Set or Primo 3 Star - 4 Pack. Consider also protective paddle covers and storage bags for school equipment rooms.
   
   

4. Train a champion educator or coach
   Identify one or two staff members or senior students to attend a pickleball introduction session or get support from a local club. Many local clubs are willing to provide a demonstration or a starter session for free.
   
   

5. Run introductory sessions
   Start with weekly lunch or after-school clubs using fun games and basic drills. Keep it light, competitive and inclusive. Rotate groups to accommodate all skill levels.
   
   

6. Collect feedback and adjust
   Use attendance logs, informal surveys, and staff feedback to fine-tune the sessions. Look for patterns: are more students attending week after week? What barriers are stopping others?
   
   

7. Link to external clubs
   Connect with local pickleball venues to encourage interschool matches, guest coaching days or even league participation for older students. This gives learners progression and motivation.
   
   

Additional Learning Opportunities

Pickleball can also be incorporated into:

• Life Orientation lessons to teach teamwork and resilience
  
  

• Aftercare programmes as a low-supervision activity
  
  

• Sports days to introduce pickleball to the wider school
  
  

Engaging learners with roles like scorekeeper, referee or coach-in-training builds leadership and sportsmanship. You can also launch school pickleball ambassador programmes where senior students guide juniors.

Funding & Resourcing Ideas

• Apply for school sports or youth development grants
  
  

• Partner with local businesses for court branding or gear sponsorship
  
  

• Host a Pickleball Day for fundraising
  
  

• Reach out to Pickleball Zone SA for gear bundles and school support
  
  

Some schools have used proceeds from tuck shops, raffles, or civvies days to fund basic equipment. Others have accessed community recreation grants or pooled resources between multiple schools.

Measuring Success

Track:

• Student participation and enthusiasm
  
  

• Staff engagement
  
  

• Demand for expansion
  
  

• Requests for competitive play
  
  

• Parent feedback and community interest
  
  

Use photos, videos, and testimonials to showcase impact on social media or school newsletters. Highlight how pickleball complements other school values like inclusivity and healthy living.

FAQs

Q: What age groups can play pickleball in schools?
A: From age 8 upwards. It’s suitable for primary and high school learners, even those with limited sports experience.

Q: How much does it cost to get started?
A: A basic setup for two courts can cost under R4 000 with nets, balls, and paddles included. Bulk discounts are often available.

Q: Can teachers learn to coach pickleball easily?
A: Yes. The rules are simple, and free resources are available online. Training workshops can also be arranged locally or in partnership with clubs.

Q: How much space do we need for a court?
A: One pickleball court is 6.1 m x 13.4 m. You can fit four courts on a single tennis court. Alternatively, use playground areas with temporary lines.

Q: Can pickleball be played indoors?
A: Yes, gymnasiums and school halls are ideal for indoor pickleball, especially during winter or in areas without outdoor courts.

Ready to Get Involved?

If your school is ready to energise its sport offering, start with pickleball. Contact Pickleball Zone SA for affordable starter kits, training support, and partnership opportunities. Let’s help every learner find their game.