So you’ve heard of pickleball—maybe from a friend, coworker, or even your parents—and now you’re curious. Good news: you’re not alone. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, and it’s easy to see why. It’s fun, social, and beginner-friendly, making it perfect for all ages.
If you’re in Dayton or surrounding cities and want to try pickleball for the first time, this guide will help you get started with confidence.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. It’s typically played on a smaller court with a plastic ball and lightweight paddles. Games are either singles or doubles, and scoring is simple once you get the hang of it.
The best part? It’s easy to learn, but there’s plenty of room to grow and compete as your skills develop.
Why New Players Love Pickleball
- It’s beginner-friendly – Most people can rally on day one
- It’s social – Great way to meet people and stay active
- Low-impact – Easy on the joints compared to tennis or running
- You don’t need a partner to start – Open play sessions let you rotate in
At Dayton Metro Pickleball, we see new players of all ages start every week. Whether you’re 15 or 65, it’s never too late to try something new.
How to Start Playing Pickleball in Dayton
Here are the simple steps to begin:
1. Find a Place to Play
If you want to avoid weather delays and crowded public courts, indoor pickleball is your best option.
📍 We’re located at 6205 Miller Lane in Dayton, just minutes from Troy, Vandalia, Centerville, and Huber Heights.
Explore city-specific playing options:
2. Join an Open Play Session
Open play is the perfect environment for beginners. You don’t need a partner—just show up with a paddle (or borrow one). You’ll rotate in with other players of various skill levels, and it’s a great way to learn the flow of the game.
3. Take a Beginner Lesson
If you want to learn faster and avoid bad habits, a beginner clinic or private lesson is a great option. Our experienced coaches make it fun, supportive, and easy to build confidence on the court.
👉 Learn more about training options (or link to /training/ if you create that page)
4. Join a League When You’re Ready
Once you’ve got a few games under your belt, you can explore our beginner-friendly leagues. These offer a fun, structured way to meet other new players and improve your game over time.
We even offer tiered leagues based on skill level, so you’re never in over your head.
Gear You Need (It’s Simple)
You really only need two things:
- A paddle (we have loaners or you can purchase one)
- Court shoes (non-marking soles are best for indoor play)
No need to invest in expensive gear—just come try it out first.
Join the Beginner-Friendly Pickleball Community at DMP
At Dayton Metro Pickleball, we welcome new players every week. From open play to training to leagues, everything we do is designed to make the game accessible, fun, and rewarding—no matter your age or background.
➡️ Book a court now
➡️ Explore membership options
➡️ Contact us with questions
