Gilbert has become a true pickleball hotspot, thanks to its year-round outdoor weather, newly constructed courts, and thriving indoor clubs. Whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time or looking to compete at the highest levels, you'll find programs tailored to your skill level and age group. This guide covers everything you need to know about Gilbert's pickleball scene—from beginner-friendly classes to competitive leagues, plus where to play and how to choose the right program for you.
At-a-Glance: Where to Play in Gilbert
Public Courts
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Gilbert Regional Park: 16 outdoor courts with dedicated pickleball lines and nets
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McQueen Park Activity Center: Indoor reservations available (call ahead)
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Freestone Recreation Center: Indoor open gym sessions
Clubs and Studios
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Center Court Pickleball Club: 10 indoor courts in Gilbert
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Life Time Gilbert: Premium membership club with leagues and tournaments
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Pickleball Backyard: Local studio with free intro classes
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Pickleball Kingdom (Chandler): Large indoor facility just minutes away
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The Picklr (Mesa): Indoor courts with family-friendly programs
Pro tip: Mornings and evenings are the busiest times at Gilbert Regional Park. Bring plenty of water and expect paddle-rack rotations during peak hours.
Start Here: Programs for Absolute Beginners (Adults)
Town of Gilbert – "Pickleball Level I"
Learn the fundamentals at Freestone Recreation Center through structured classes designed for adults 16 and older. These sessions cover everything from proper grip and stance to basic rules and scoring.
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Where: Freestone Recreation Center, 1141 E Guadalupe Rd
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How to register: Visit Gilbert's ActiveNet portal or call (480) 503-6200
Life Time Gilbert – Intro to Pickleball
This membership club offers both one-time intro classes and ongoing clinics. If you're not a member, ask about day-pass options to try their facilities.
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Where: 381 E Warner Rd, Gilbert
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Contact: (480) 892-5020
Pickleball Backyard – Free Intro Class + Clinics
Perfect for beginners who prefer a small-group atmosphere. They offer a free intro class plus private and group lesson options.
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Where: 868 N Gilbert Rd, Suite 102
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Contact: (480) 803-4431
Pickleball Kingdom (Chandler) – "Pickleball 101"
Just a short drive from Gilbert, this large indoor facility offers beginner-friendly programming with daily court availability. The indoor setting makes it perfect year-round, especially during Arizona's hot summers.
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Where: 4950 W Ray Rd, Chandler
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Contact: (480) 818-9980
Seniors & Active Adults (50+)
Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA – Morning Open Play
Consistent weekday slots with a friendly pace and welcoming atmosphere make this a popular choice for active adults.
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Where: 1655 W Frye Rd, Chandler
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Contact: (480) 899-9622
Arizona Pickleball Players League (APPL)
This statewide league originated in the East Valley and offers plenty of team play options for players 50 and older each season. It's a great way to stay competitive while making lasting friendships.
Gilbert Regional Park – Morning & Evening Senior Scene
The 16 outdoor courts buzz with activity during morning and evening hours. First-come rotation keeps games moving, and the park is open from 5:30 AM to 10 PM.
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Where: 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert
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Contact: (480) 503-6200
Freestone Recreation Center – Indoor Open Gym
Check the monthly schedule for indoor "open gym" pickleball times in the South Gym when other programs aren't scheduled.
Competitive & "Pro-Track" Options
Center Court Pickleball Club – Gilbert
Ten indoor courts with leagues, ladders, and professional instruction make this the go-to destination for serious players looking to dial in their skills.
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Where: 1433 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
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Contact: (480) 219-9753
Life Time Gilbert – Leagues & Tournaments
Regular leagues and club tournaments provide competitive opportunities. Connect with their on-site pickleball pros to find the right fit for your skill level.
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Contact: (480) 892-5020
Team HIPPA Academy – Private & Group Coaching
Professional instruction available at Gilbert Regional Park for players of all ages looking to take their game to the next level.
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Contact: info@teamhippa.com or (602) 341-3361
Pickleball Kingdom (Chandler) – Coaching, Ladders, Events
This large indoor venue offers coaching and competitive play times throughout the week.
Kids & Teens
Town of Gilbert – "Pickleball Skills & Drills with B.E.S.T."
Young players ages 11-14 learn proper grip, serve, volleys, and scoring in this structured youth program.
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Registration: Through Gilbert's ActiveNet portal
High School Pickleball Social @ Gilbert Regional Park
Periodic teen-focused social play nights appear on the park events calendar—check their website for upcoming dates.
Pickleball Backyard – Youth 4-Lesson Package
Affordable junior starter bundle with ongoing youth clinics for kids wanting to develop their skills.
The Picklr (Mesa) – Junior Programs
Indoor courts with family-friendly programs make this a convenient option just north of Gilbert.
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Where: 1135 N Recker Rd, Mesa
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Contact: (602) 346-9559
How to Choose the Right Program
Consider Your Location & Indoor/Outdoor Preference
Arizona's heat makes indoor options particularly appealing during summer months. Think about your tolerance for sun exposure and plan accordingly.
Decide on Format
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Classes: Structured learning with an instructor
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Open play: Drop-in games with rotating partners
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Leagues: Ongoing competition with consistent teams
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Private/small-group coaching: Personalized instruction
Evaluate Commitment & Cost
Options range from drop-in sessions and punch cards to monthly memberships. Consider your schedule and budget when making your choice.
Match Coaching Style to Your Goals
Are you looking to learn the basics, get cardio exercise, or progress through skill ratings? Different programs cater to different objectives.
Sample Weekly Play Plans
New to Pickleball
Monday: Intro class at Freestone Recreation Center
Wednesday: Indoor open play at McQueen Park Activity Center
Saturday: Morning public courts at Gilbert Regional Park
Senior Starter
Tuesday: YMCA morning session
Thursday: Freestone open gym
Saturday: Gilbert Regional Park social play
Competitive Track
Monday: Drills at Center Court
Wednesday: Ladder play
Weekend: Tournament or league competition
Court Etiquette & First-Time Tips
Understanding basic etiquette helps everyone enjoy the game more:
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Paddle-rack rotation: At busy public courts, place your paddle in the rack and wait your turn
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Call the score: Announce the score loudly and clearly before each serve
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Quick warm-ups: Keep pre-game warm-ups brief when others are waiting
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Proper footwear: Wear court shoes for safety and better performance
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Stay hydrated: Bring water and sunscreen, especially for outdoor play
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Respect posted rules: Each facility may have specific guidelines
Many clubs offer loaner paddles and balls for beginners, but bringing your own ensures you have equipment you're comfortable with.
Directory: Ready-to-Use Contacts
Public & Town Facilities
Gilbert Regional Park
3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298
Phone: (480) 503-6200
McQueen Park Activity Center
510 N Horne St, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Reservations: (480) 503-6294
Freestone Recreation Center
1141 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: (480) 503-6200
Clubs & Studios
Center Court Pickleball Club – Gilbert
1433 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85295
Phone: (480) 219-9753
Email: gilbert@centercourtpickleball.com
Life Time – Gilbert
381 E Warner Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: (480) 892-5020
Pickleball Backyard
868 N Gilbert Rd, Suite 102, Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: (480) 803-4431
Pickleball Kingdom – Chandler
4950 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226
Phone: (480) 818-9980
The Picklr – Mesa
1135 N Recker Rd, Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: (602) 346-9559
Leagues & Coaches
Arizona Pickleball Players League
Visit their website for current season information and team registration
Team HIPPA Academy
Email: info@teamhippa.com
Phone: (602) 341-3361
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best place to start if I've never played?
Begin with a structured intro class like those offered by the Town of Gilbert, Pickleball Backyard's free intro session, or Life Time's beginner program. These provide proper instruction on rules, technique, and court etiquette.
Do I need a membership to play in Gilbert?
No. Gilbert Regional Park offers free play on a first-come, first-served basis. McQueen Park Activity Center and Freestone Recreation Center require small fees but no ongoing membership. Private clubs like Life Time and Center Court do require memberships.
When are public courts least crowded?
Mid-morning to early afternoon (10 AM - 2 PM) typically sees lighter crowds at Gilbert Regional Park. Avoid peak times like early morning (6-8 AM) and evening (5-7 PM) if you prefer less crowded courts.
Are there programs for kids and teens?
Yes! The Town of Gilbert offers youth programs, Gilbert Regional Park hosts teen social nights, and facilities like Pickleball Backyard and The Picklr have junior-friendly programs.
Find Your Group and Get on Court This Week
Gilbert's pickleball community offers something for everyone, from complete beginners to competitive players. The combination of excellent public facilities, professional instruction, and welcoming clubs makes it easy to find your place in this growing sport.
Ready to get started? Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover which program best fits your goals and schedule. Whether you're looking for fitness, competition, or just plain fun, Gilbert's pickleball scene is waiting to welcome you.