As one of the fastest-growing sports in America, pickleball is gaining immense popularity nationwide, and the Badger State is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball enthusiast or a novice eager to try the game, there are abundant resources locally to play this exciting sport. The following is your comprehensive guide to playing pickleball in Wisconsin.
Pickleball, a quirky sport that blends elements from tennis, badminton and ping pong, has witnessed an astonishing surge in popularity over the past few years. As the paddle sport spread across the United States, it has found its way into the hearts of Wisconsinites. If you are looking to venture into the sport or sharpen your skills, below is a digestible breakdown for playing pickleball in Wisconsin.
Where to Take Lessons:
Capital Area Pickleball Association
Dane County
Serving the greater Dane County community, Capital Area Pickleball Association is an excellent resource for beginner players looking to learn the sport. The classes take place at Cottage Grove Courts on select dates each month from 8 to 10 a.m. Each lesson is $48 and includes paddles, nets and balls. Courses for those looking to sharpen their skills are also available, including the opportunity for partner play and learning drop shots, drop volleys, strategies and more. For more information, visit capareapb.com.
New Berlin Recreation Department
New Berlin
The City of New Berlin wants to help its locals transition from novices to seasoned pickleheads. Lessons occur at Lions Park Tennis/Pickleball Courts or Buena Park Pickleball Courts. The classes take place on select dates throughout the year, with upcoming times taking place Aug. 10 and Sept. 26. Players must be at least 18 years old to join in on the fun, with class prices starting at $5 for New Berlin residents and $8 for non-residents. These classes are for beginners only. For more information, visit newberlin.org.
Where to Find Supplies:
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Various
With locations all across Wisconsin, Dick’s Sporting Goods has everything you need to start your pickleball journey (plus some more). In addition to paddle sets, balls and nets, Dick’s Sporting Goods also sells pickleball court shoes for both men and women, headbands, balance gear, paddles for little ones and more. For more information, visit dickssportinggoods.com.
Burghardt Sporting Goods
Milwaukee
One of the oldest, family- and locally-owned sporting goods stores in the state, Burghardt Sporting Goods boasts a plethora of items to get residents set to play pickleball in Wisconsin. The shop is located in Milwaukee and offers pickleball packs for both indoor and outdoor balls, paddles for adults and little ones, pickleball sling bags, nets and more. Prices start as low as $60 for paddles. For more information, visit burghardtsportinggoods.com.
Dunham’s Sports
Various
With 10-plus locations scattered across the state, Dunham’s Sports sells pickleball merchandise, including vibrant paddles, outdoor and indoor pickle balls and court shoes. Unique to this sporty shop is a bundle pack that features a half-court net, two paddles and two pickleballs for $69.99. For more information, visit dunhamssports.com.
Where to Play:
New Berlin Recreation Department
New Berlin
Boasting fun seasonal events, New Berlin Recreation Department has over 17 courts to play on and hosts a variety morning, afternoon and fun-themed pickleball games. Upcoming matches include the Fall Brawl in October. Three courts can be found at Buena Park, eight at Valley View Park and six at Lions Park. Players must be at least 18 years old to join in on the fun, with daily prices starting at $5 for New Berlin residents and $8 for non-residents. For more information, visit newberlin.org.
Banting Park
Waukesha
No matter the season, Banting Park’s expansive courts offer ample room for budding and seasoned pickleball enthusiasts to showcase their skills. The facility remains open year-round, providing an excellent venue for playing pickleball in Wisconsin. With eight permanent pickleball courts available, there is also the flexibility to convert an additional tennis court into a ninth pickleball court when needed. If you choose to play on the transformed tennis court, remember to bring along a portable pickleball net. For more information, visit waukesha-wi.gov.
Sheboygan Courts
Sheboygan
Throughout Sheboygan County, numerous public courts for playing pickleball in Wisconsin are available, some of which are shared with tennis courts and provide free access during the summer on a first-come, first-served basis. During the winter months, indoor play is facilitated at locations such as the Sheboygan YMCA, Sheboygan Falls Berkshire Gym (operated by the YMCA) and Oostburg Elementary School. Moreover, Plymouth’s Generations and Sheboygan’s Vollrath Park offer multiple pickleball-specific courts, with some sites featuring illuminated courts for evening play. For more information, visit pickleballsheboygan.blogspot.com.