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Think Pickleball is just for retirees? Think again. It’s one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., and it’s exploding right here in Winston-Salem. From parks and rec centers to meetups and local leagues, our city is buzzing with players of all ages and skill levels.
Whether you’re curious to try it out or ready to sharpen your skills, this guide will show you where to play, what you need to get started, how to find lessons, and ways to plug into the vibrant community that makes this sport so addictive. Let’s hit the court!
What Is Pickleball, Anyway?
Believe it or not, plenty of people still haven’t heard of Pickleball or have no idea how it’s played. Think of it as a fun mix of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, but with a paddle and a plastic ball full of holes.
Here’s the basic idea:
- Two or four players stand on opposite sides of a 34-inch-high net. They hit a perforated ball back and forth using solid paddles, trying to score points by making the ball land inside the court while avoiding faults.
- You can play singles or doubles, but most recreational games are doubles with two players on each team.
- One of the best things about Pickleball is that it is beginner-friendly. You can pick up the basics in a single session, yet the game becomes fast-paced and strategic as your skills improve.
- The rules are simple, but taking a lesson can be incredibly helpful. It’s one of those games that is much easier to learn by doing than by reading about it.
How Do You Play Pickleball?
If you’re ready to dive in, here’s a simplified overview of the rules for doubles play, adapted from the Pickleheads website:
- The game and each rally begin with a serve. The player on the right side of the court always starts the serve diagonally to their opponent.
- The ball must bounce once on each side before either team can volley. A volley is when a shot is hit out of the air without a bounce.
- Each point continues until a fault. Play continues until someone hits a winning shot or a fault is committed. A fault ends the rally.
- You can’t volley in the kitchen. The 7′ zone on each side of the net marks the non-volley zone or “kitchen.”
- You only win points on your serve and continue serving until you lose a rally. Your teammate then serves until you lose another point, and the serve then switches to the other team.
- The correct score must be called before serving. Three numbers must be called: the first number is the score of the serving team; the second number is the score of the receiving team; the third number is which player of the serving team is serving (player 1 or 2).
- The first team to 11 points wins, but you must win by 2 points.
The diagram below helps illustrate what the game court looks like.
A Quick History of Pickleball
It all started in the summer of 1965, when three dads, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, were looking for a way to entertain their families on Bainbridge Island, Washington. With an old badminton court, some paddles, and a perforated plastic ball, they invented a brand-new game that was easy to learn and fun for all ages.
- By 1967, Pickleball had its first permanent court, built in the backyard of Bob O’Brian, a friend and neighbor of Pritchard. The founders later formed a corporation in 1972 to officially protect their creation.
- National attention followed. In 1975, The National Observer ran a story on this unusual backyard sport. Just a year later, Tennis Magazine dubbed it “America’s Newest Racquet Sport.”
- By 1990, Pickleball had gone nationwide, with players in all 50 states. What started as a backyard pastime had turned into a full-blown movement.
- And it’s still growing fast. In 2022, the Sports & Fitness Industry Association named Pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America for the second year in a row—and the momentum hasn’t slowed since.
Want even more details? Check out the full timeline on the USA Pickleball website.
What Will You Need to Play Pickleball?
Getting started with Pickleball is easier (and cheaper) than you might think. While there’s a wide range of gear out there, from budget kits to high-end paddles, here’s what you really need as a beginner:
1. A Good Starter Paddle
Not all paddles are created equal, and prices can range from under $30 to well over $150. As a beginner, you don’t need to spend a lot to get started.
According to Pickleheads.com’s beginner paddle guide, here are two solid options:
- Friday Original Paddle( $71.99 ) – A well-balanced, all-purpose paddle that’s great for first-timers. It’s moderately priced and a top pick for beginners.
- GoSports GS1 Paddle ( $23.08 ) – A budget-friendly option for new players just testing the waters.
2. Pickleballs
You’ll also need a few regulation balls. If you’re playing outdoors, the Franklin X-40 Outdoor Pickleball ( $9.97 ) is a great pick and widely used in open play.
3. A Court and a Net
Naturally, you’ll need access to a Pickleball court. Some courts provide permanent or temporary nets, while others may require you to bring your own. Many local parks and recreation centers in Winston-Salem offer public courts, more on that in the next section.
4 Places to Play Pickleball in Winston-Salem: Parks, Indoors, Clubs & Private Courts
Whether you’re just picking up a paddle or are already obsessed, Winston-Salem offers an impressive lineup of Pickleball courts that are indoors, outdoors, free and club-based. Here’s where to play, how to join a game, and where to find coaching and community.
1. City Parks & Rec Centers: 12 Public Courts
These locations are open to the public and typically free to use. Some require you to bring your own net, so check the notes below.
- Georgia Taylor Recreation Center
1471 W Clemmonsville Rd – 6 lined courts over three tennis courts. Bring your own net. - Granville Park
700 Granville Dr – Lined courts shared with tennis players. - Miller Park Rec Center (Indoor)
400 Leisure Ln – 6 courts inside (3 per gym). Two indoor nets are available. - Oak Summit Park
370 Oak Summit Rd – 6 dedicated outdoor courts. - Old Town Park
4550 Shattalon Dr – 6 courts over tennis; lights on a timer allow night play. - Polo Park Rec Center (Indoor)
1850 Polo Rd – 2 indoor courts with nets provided. - William R. Anderson Jr Rec Center (Indoor)
2450 Reynolds Park Rd – 2 striped indoor courts; nets available. - Sedge Garden Park
401 Robbins Rd – 10 dedicated outdoor courts; one of the city’s busiest. - Shaffner Park
900 Yorkshire Rd – 6 dedicated outdoor courts; WePLAY site. - Joanie Moser Memorial Park (Lewisville)
535 Lewisville-Clemmons Rd – 9 dedicated courts; home of the Winston-Salem Pickleball Club. - Union Cross Park
1925 Union Cross Rd – 2 lighted courts with Pickleball lines overlaid on tennis courts. Courts can be reserved through Forsyth County Parks. - Hanes Park – Joe White Tennis Center (Hybrid)
1404 W Northwest Blvd – 20 tennis courts that can be adapted for Pickleball play. Courts are reservable through the City of Winston-Salem for $5 per 90-minute session. A great option for organized games or overflow play.
2. YMCAs, Churches & Other Facilities
These locations often provide equipment, consistent hours, and indoor play. Most require memberships or a day pass.
- Jerry Long Family YMCA
Clemmons – 3–4 lined courts, nets included. Open play weekdays, 8 AM–12 PM. - William G. White YMCA
775 W End Blvd – 3 indoor courts. Call 336-721-2100 for access info. - YMCA Wellness Center (Formerly Gateway YMCA)
1300 S Main St – 6 indoor courts. Open play weekdays, 9 AM–12 PM. Day pass: $5. - College Park Baptist Church
1701 Polo Rd – 3 indoor lined courts. Regular play Tues & Thurs, 6–8 PM. - Sprague Street Community Center
1350 E Sprague St – Free play Tuesdays and Fridays, 11 AM–2 PM. Info: 336-650-7680.
3. Free Weekly Games: WePLAY by City of Winston-Salem
The City of Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks WePLAY offers Pickleball play at area parks during the week. The games are beginner-friendly, open to everyone 18+, no registration required, and totally free.
- Monday at 9 AM – Sedge Garden Park, 401 Robbins Rd
- Wednesday at 9 AM – Shaffner Park, 900 Yorkshire Rd
- Friday at 9 AM – Oak Summit Park, 370 Oak Summit Rd
Sprague Street Community Center also hosts free indoor play:
- Tuesdays & Fridays, 11 AM – 2 PM
- 1350 E Sprague St – Call 336-650-7680 for more info.
4. Private & Club Pickleball Facilities
If you’re looking for more structured play or premium amenities, these private and club-based locations offer additional Pickleball options in Winston-Salem.
- Westwood Tennis Club
265 Harper St – 4 outdoor Pickleball courts with lighting. Access requires a club membership. A great option for those seeking structured play and consistent court availability. - Wake Forest University Tennis Courts
1834 Wake Forest Rd – Outdoor courts occasionally open to the public for Pickleball. Check with the university’s athletic or recreation department for current availability and schedules. - Hanes Park – Joe White Tennis Center
1404 W Northwest Blvd – 20 tennis courts that can be used for Pickleball play. Courts are reservable through the City of Winston-Salem for $5 per 90-minute block. Ideal for organized group games.
Map Of Winston-Salem Pickleball Courts
Below is a map that includes all the Pickleball court locations we’ve mentioned above.
- City parks & Rec centers – blue
- YMCAs/ Other Facilities – green
- Private & Club Pickleball Facilities – yellow
Pickleball Lessons in Winston-Salem
Not sure where to start? Prefer to learn before jumping into a game?
The Winston-Salem Pickleball Club maintains a list of experienced coaches for all skill levels. From absolute beginners to competitive players, you’ll find someone to help you sharpen your skills. Explore options via their official training page.
Pickleball Etiquette: 5 Unwritten Rules That Make You a Legend
If tennis had a chill cousin who brought snacks and remembered your birthday, it would be Pickleball. But even chill has rules, especially the unspoken ones. Want to earn instant respect on the court? Start with these five:
- Call the score before every serve
It’s more than tradition—it keeps the game fair and avoids confusion. Bonus: it makes you sound like a seasoned player, even if you just learned what “the kitchen” is. - Don’t cross a court mid-point
If a rally is in motion, wait. No one likes a surprise sideline sprint in their peripheral vision. Patience = politeness. - Welcome the newbies
We all started somewhere. Be the player who offers encouragement, not eye-rolls. Paddle snobbery is never a good look. - Save the coaching for off-court
Unsolicited tips mid-match? Hard pass. Unless someone asks for help, focus on playing, not play-by-play analysis. - Tap paddles, don’t shake hands
It’s the Pickleball way. Quick, friendly, and way less sweaty. A simple paddle tap signals good sportsmanship and respect.
Stick to these and you’ll be everyone’s favorite doubles partner, plus, you’ll definitely get invited to post-game snacks.
5 Local Pickleball Clubs & Online Communities
Ready to dive deeper? These resources go beyond the court:
- Winston-Salem Pickleball Club
Organizes lessons, socials, and tournaments; advocates for more courts. Membership is just $10/year.
Visit Website - USA Pickleball
National site for rules, gear guides, and court directories. Join local Facebook groups by region. - Pickleheads.com
Official court and game finder for USA Pickleball. Reviews, court maps, and local gear suggestions.
Search Winston-Salem courts - Facebook: Winston-Salem Pickleball (Private Group)
Active local group for meetups, updates, and finding partners. Covers Winston-Salem, Lewisville, Clemmons, and Pfafftown. - TeamReach App
Many Winston-Salem players use this free TeamReach app to coordinate meetups, reserve courts, or find last-minute doubles partners. Common group codes include “jmoser” and “shaffnerpark”. See more local venue TeamReach codes here.
Health Perks of Pickleball: Fun That’s Actually Good for You
Pickleball isn’t just addictive, it’s surprisingly good for your body and brain. While it may not feel like a workout, research shows it delivers major health benefits without the grind of traditional gym routines.
Physically, Pickleball is a full-body workout in disguise. Players regularly hit about 70 percent of their max heart rate during games, comparable to tennis but with less strain on joints. A 30-minute doubles match burns more calories than walking and can improve endurance, flexibility, and coordination.
Mentally, it’s just as powerful. The game’s constant movement and quick decision-making sharpen focus and reflexes. Studies even show that Pickleball enhances cognitive flexibility and memory, making it great brain training, especially for older adults.
And let’s not forget the mental health benefits:
- Lower rates of depression and stress. Frequent players report significantly higher mood and life satisfaction.
- Built-in social time. Unlike many solo workouts, Pickleball is inherently social. You’re talking, laughing, and bonding with others on the court.
- Great for all ages. From teens to seniors, it creates intergenerational connection, a rare benefit in modern sports.
The best part? You don’t need to be ultra-fit or ultra-competitive to gain the rewards. Whether you’re playing once a week or every day, Pickleball offers a sustainable, joyful path to better health.
Beginner Pickleball FAQs: Honest Answers to the Questions You’re Too Shy to Ask
New to Pickleball and feeling unsure? Don’t worry, these are the same questions everyone has when they first step onto the court. Let’s clear up the confusion and set you up for a confident start.
Is Pickleball easy to learn?
Absolutely. Most players pick up the basics in their very first game, and by game three, they’re already hooked. The rules are straightforward, the court is small and manageable, and unlike tennis, you won’t spend most of your time chasing down stray balls. Plus, the community is welcoming and happy to show newcomers the ropes.
Do I have to be super physically fit to play?
Not at all. One of Pickleball’s greatest strengths is that it’s truly for everyone. Kids, seniors, weekend warriors, and complete beginners can all share the court. It’s less about power and more about placement and consistency. You’ll work up a sweat, but you won’t need a personal trainer to survive your first match.
Do I need special court shoes?
While not mandatory, they’re highly recommended. Court shoes are designed for lateral movement and grip, which are essential on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Running shoes can increase your risk of ankle injuries because they’re built for forward motion. If you’re playing regularly, invest in shoes made for tennis, volleyball, or Pickleball specifically.
After The Game
After a few rounds of Pickleball, it is time to relax and enjoy the company of your opponents. If it is an early morning game, you can visit one of Winston-Salem’s coffee shops for a caffeine pick-me-up and a sweet treat.
If it is later in the day or at night, a stop at one of our breweries for a cold craft beer or a local eatery for a quick bite might be just the thing. The social aspect of the game is a big part of its allure.
And that’s what makes Pickleball so unique. It’s not just a sport, it’s a community. Whether you’re celebrating a win, laughing off a loss, or just soaking in the camaraderie, the post-game hangout is part of the ritual.
So don’t rush off after the final point. Linger a little. Invite your opponents for a coffee or a craft beer. Sometimes the best volleys happen after the game.
More to Explore in Winston-Salem
Pickleball might be your new favorite pastime, but there’s a lot more to love about Winston-Salem. Make the most of your time off the court with these local experiences:
- Explore family-friendly parks, dog parks, tours, and trails if you’re looking to stay active between matches
- Visit local museums and historic sites for a dose of culture and Southern charm
- Plan a foodie day with can’t-miss restaurants and hidden gems
Check out our full collection of Winston-Salem guides and turn your Pickleball outing into a full-day adventure.
Got a Favorite Pickleball Spot in Winston-Salem?
We’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s a hidden gem in a neighborhood park, a rec center with great lighting, or your favorite indoor court on a rainy day, share it in the comments below. Your tip could help a fellow player discover their new go-to court and grow the local Pickleball community.
