Come and Play
Never played pickleball before? Perfect — that's exactly who this page is for. No experience, no equipment, and no idea what a “dink” is? You'll fit right in. Here's everything you need to know to come along and give it a try.
What to expect
Walk onto the court on your first visit and you'll be met with friendly faces, and probably a few good-natured groans about someone's forehand. Pickleball is one of the most beginner-friendly sports around — the court is smaller than tennis, the ball moves slower, and most people pick up the basics within their first session.
You don't need to know the rules before you arrive. Our coaches and members will talk you through the scoring, positioning and etiquette as you go — everyone remembers being new, and our club loves introducing people to the game.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothes and sports shoes
- A water bottle
- Sun protection for outdoor sessions
Don't have a paddle yet? No problem — the club has loan paddles available so you can try before you buy. Balls and nets are always supplied.
How to book your first session
All sessions — including your first visit as a guest — are booked through the OpenSports app. It's free and only takes a few minutes to set up.
- Download OpenSports from the App Store or Google Play
- Create your free account
- Search for and join the “Port Stephens Pickleball Club” group
- Browse upcoming sessions and book your spot
New to OpenSports? See our full step-by-step guide →
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Best for first-timers: Friday Skills & Drills Morning — Tomaree Netball Court, Leisure Drive, off Salamander Way, Salamander Bay NSW 2317 (Map). Coached for every level, from complete beginners through to intermediate plus players. First-timers are taught the rules, shown how the game is played, and get hands-on feedback and tips — a faster start than jumping straight into a casual session (though our members there are just as friendly and happy to help). It's popular, so book by Tuesday or Wednesday to secure your Friday spot. |
Can't make Fridays? Our weekend social sessions welcome newcomers too — you won't get the same structured coaching, but our members will always take the time to show you the ropes.
Want to see the full schedule, including venue addresses and maps? View all sessions.
Your first three visits
You're welcome to visit up to three times as a guest before joining. Every visit — including your first — is booked through OpenSports, and guests are covered by insurance through Pickleball NSW for those visits.
After your third visit, if pickleball's become a habit (it usually does), you can make it official.
Ready to join?
Membership is simple — sign up for the year and you're set for every session, across all of our venues
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