Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or curious about the hype, Gilbert has an array of courts suited for all levels.
For those not caught up in the trend, pickleball is a paddle sport similar to badminton and tennis. Despite its name, there’s no confirmed connection to pickles. It can be played with singles or doubles and all you need to play is a net, paddle and ball. The earliest game of pickleball can be traced back to the backyard of a congressman from Washington state in the 1960s. It was officially recognized as a sport in 1972 and it has now become the fastest-growing sport in America according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
It was created to cure summer boredom, but it has evolved into a competitive sport with a variety of skill levels and tournaments taking place nationwide. Boasting more than 4.8 million participants across the nation, its explosive growth can be attributed to community interest with pickleball courts popping up at recreation centers, parks, retirement communities, etc… Gilbert is participating in the craze with a variety of both indoor and outdoor courts scattered throughout the town.
Pickleball enthusiasts in Gilbert now have access to courts at two beloved community spots: Gilbert Regional Park and Freestone Recreation Center, thanks to Gilbert Parks and Recreation. Pickleball Backyard is a dedicated hub open 24 hours and offers lessons, clinics tournaments and more. Highland High School also contributes to the growing pickleball scene with its eight outdoor courts.
If any of your New Year’s resolutions involve socializing more or adopting a more active lifestyle, pickleball offers a fantastic opportunity to achieve both goals. Visit one of these Gilbert courts today to immerse yourself in the excitement.
Pickleball Backyard
Pickleball Backyard is a self-serve facility offering access to indoor pickleball courts 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Guests can reserve courts on the Court Reserve app and they can either pay-as-you-play or join one of the membership options that offer discounts on events, drop-ins and more. Guests and members must reserve courts and drop-in spots. It offers lessons and clinics for beginners and those who just want to improve as well as leagues and tournaments if you want to take your pickleball skills to the next level. pickleballbackyard.com
Gilbert Regional Park
Gilbert Regional Park opened in 2019 and features 16 outdoor pickleball courts. There are permanent lines and nets, all guests need to bring are balls and paddles. They are free to use, lighted to support night play and there’s access to amenities like restrooms and water. Gilbert Regional Park is open from 5 am to 10 pm daily and the pickleball courts are first come first serve. gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/gilbert-s-new-regional-park
Freestone Recreation Center
This Gilbert staple has been serving the community for over 20 years and has added two indoor pickleball courts. Day passes are $3 to $4 depending on age and residency status. There are also a variety of memberships available so you can take advantage of all Freestone Recreation Center’s amenities. The pickleball courts feature permanent lines and there are portable nets available. gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation-centers-classes/freestone-recreation-center
Highland High School
Highland High School, the home of the Hawks, boasts eight well-lit pickleball courts featuring permanent lines. While the courts are free and open to all, guests must bring a net, balls, and paddles for play. pickleheads.com/courts/us/arizona/gilbert/highland-high-school
