Ever since pickleball was named the fastest growing sport in America, public courts have been packed, and private pickleball clubs boasting less crowded private pickleball courts are popping up everywhere.
Perhaps you have overheard other players discussing the perks of private club membership, or a sleek new facility has just opened in your area, and you’re wondering if joining is something you could, or should, do.
As with any membership, it really depends on what you seek out of the membership that will determine whether any particular club is worth it.
In this article, we share three important things to know about joining a private pickleball club, so you know what to ask before signing up.
Private pickleball club pricing
When looking into private clubs of any nature, pricing is typically a primary focus, and when it comes to pickleball clubs, this is no different.
The thing is, unlike most gym membership offerings, pickleball clubs don’t always display their pricing upfront.
This is not because they are trying to be deceptive; it’s usually just because their rates can vary significantly based on the type of membership you seek. A club may offer single, couple, family, and corporate membership rates, for example. Clubs may also charge by the number of visits/games you intend to play per month.
It’s also standard for these prices not to be disclosed until you take a tour of the club, simply because they hope that after the experience of visiting, you will sell yourself on becoming a member.
So, how do you find out pricing?
Just ask.
Most pickleball clubs across the U.S. average from about $50/month for smaller local facilities to several hundred dollars per month, plus initiation fees, for high-end, country-club-style facilities with numerous private pickleball courts.
Private pickleball club clientele
The term “private club” often puts players off, and while there are certainly some very high-end pickleball clubs out there, you will most likely not find yourself among traditional country club culture.
As pickleball is generally more relaxed than tennis, most of the clubs are more relaxed as well.
You can probably expect a vast range of ages and skill levels, from retirees to families and working professionals, and from newbies to serious tournament players.
So, how can you be sure you will fit it?
Inquire about the format of play the club offers. Ask if they have mixers, beginner hours, open play, and so on.
If the schedule feels inclusive, chances are the vibe will be too, and a walkthrough visit during a busy hour should make it easy to determine the type of clientele they are attracting.
Private pickleball club attire
If you enjoy the laid-back nature of the game, there’s good news: most private clubs follow the same general pickleball etiquette as public courts and simply require athletic clothing, non-marking court shoes, and a paddle.
Some higher-end country clubs require collared shirts and have restrictions on denim when moving through clubhouse areas, so if that’s your preference, there’s something for you as well.
So, how can you be sure about the dress code?
Simply ask if there are any rules when it comes to player attire. The club will share if they have expectations, but most clubs don’t have any specific attire regulations.
Typically, as long as you’re dressed for active play, you’ll be perfectly fine — popped polo collar or not!
So, should you join a private pickleball club?
That depends on what you’re looking for.
Joining a private pickleball club is a personal decision that usually centers around the convenience of always having a private pickleball court to play on, the community, the event opportunities, and partnership possibilities that clubs offer, along with the nicety of enjoying well-cared-for facilities with fewer crowds.
The best way to know if a club is right for you is to take a tour.
If you leave a tour excited to play more pickleball, then chances are private membership is an excellent option for you.
