How to Start a Pickleball Club or School Programme in South Africa
Pickleball is spreading across South Africa—and you can help lead the movement in your local community! Whether you’re a teacher, sports coach, parent, or just a passionate player, this guide will show you how to start a pickleball club South Africa style—with minimal resources and maximum community impact.
Step 1: Build Interest & Support
Start by getting your school, church, or neighbourhood excited about pickleball. Host an info session, show a quick video, or bring a few paddles to your local park for a demo day. Use:
- WhatsApp groups and school newsletters
- Posters and flyers around the venue
- Short social media posts with fun facts and photos
The more people see how easy and fun it is, the faster your programme will grow!
Step 2: Gather Basic Gear & Find a Space
You don’t need a fancy court. Start with what you have:
- Flat surface (tennis court, netball court, hall, or car park)
- Portable net or cones + tape to create boundaries
- 2–4 paddles and a few balls
Mark out a temporary court (20x44 feet or 6.1m x 13.4m) with chalk or painter’s tape. Check local community centres or churches that might offer space for free or a small fee.
Step 3: Connect with Pickleball SA for Help
Pickleball South Africa (PSA) offers great support to help you launch:
- Free coaching materials
- Access to certified instructors
- Starter kits for schools and clubs
Visit Pickleball SA’s Start Page to request resources and training support.
Step 4: Host Your First Clinic or Play Day
Kick things off with a friendly open day. Invite everyone—parents, students, seniors, and neighbours. Keep it relaxed and focus on fun. Try:
- Mini clinics for new players
- Beginner rallies and target games
- Social round robins with small prizes
Have volunteers or coaches on hand to help explain rules and guide play. Play music, offer light snacks, and capture the day with photos to build buzz.
Step 5: Create a Weekly Routine
To build momentum, keep your programme consistent. Start with one weekly session and expand as needed. You can create:
- Beginner hours
- Youth classes
- Family game nights
- Small club tournaments
Encourage members to bring friends and help with setup. A supportive community will make your club or school programme sustainable long-term.
Step 6: Register & Grow with the National Movement
When your group is up and running, register with Pickleball SA to:
- Appear in national directories
- Join leagues and tournaments
- Get help with funding and development
Share your success with Pickleball Zone SA to be featured in blogs or social media and access gear at affordable prices.
Tips for Success in South Africa
- Use local sports networks (netball, hockey, etc.) to find interested players
- Ask local shops or businesses for small sponsorships or gear donations
- Run a kids vs adults day to get the whole family involved
- Celebrate milestones—your 10th session, 50th participant, etc.
Where to Get Help & Gear
Conclusion
Starting a pickleball programme is one of the most rewarding ways to build community. Whether it’s a group of learners, a church league, or neighbours at your local court, you’ll be part of South Africa’s fastest-growing sport.
Need help getting started? Visit Pickleball Zone SA for gear, tips, and expert guidance. Let’s grow pickleball together!