Pickleball is on the rise in Rhode Island! America’s fastest-growing sport is touching down in the Ocean State, with 33 pickleball courts across the region and a number of great organizations like Ocean State Pickleball to help beginners on their way.
Pickleball in Rhode Island
Pickleball is on the rise in Rhode Island. The Independent published an article about pickleball’s rise in South Kingstown, and InPickleball published this guide to taking a pickleball-centered sightseeing road trip through the state.
All across Rhode Island, from Newport to Providence, Bristol to Narragansett, people of all skill levels are picking up their paddles and starting to play pickleball.
Pickleball Courts
Forecourt Racquet and Fitness Club (Providence)
Just north of Providence, pickleball players will find Forecourt Racquet and Fitness Club. With several dedicated pickleball courts and offerings for pickleball clinics and open play drop-in sessions, Forecourt is a great option for anyone looking to join a club.
Drop-in sessions run in the mornings on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and in the afternoons on Saturday. Membership is required to play at these courts.
Kent Street Park (Barrington)
At Kent Street Park in Barrington, pickleball players can find a cheaper and more accessible option for their pickleball games.
The two dedicated outdoor courts have permanent lines but require players to bring their own nets (a portable net system might be a good investment for you or your pickleball group!). These courts are free to play, with restrooms available for the players.
Clarke Pointe Park (Narragansett)
One of the most popular pickleball destinations in Narragansett, Clarke Pointe Park has four dedicated hardcourt pickleball courts, which are free for use.
With permanent nets and lines, as well as bathroom and water facilities, this is a great public option for pickleball players in the Narragansett region.
Other Options:
As well as the three detailed above, there are many other places to play pickleball in Rhode Island. These include:
- Hunter Park, Newport
- Burrs Hill Park, Barrington
- Micky Stevens Sport Complex, Warwick
- North Farm Pickleball, Bristol
- Ninigret Park, Charlestown
- Ocean State Community YMCA, Westerly
Pickleball Clubs & Organizations
Bristol Pickleball Club
Bristol Pickleball Club is a welcoming, beginner-friendly organization based in Bristol, RI. Based at the Quinta-Gamlin Community Center during winter months and Bristol Town Commons during the summer, they also host beginner clinics for new players.
The President of the Bristol Pickleball Club is Cliff Teixeira, who is also the USA Pickleball (USAPA) District Ambassador for Rhode Island. If you’re new to the state, Mr. Teixeira would be a great person to touch base with to find out about all things pickleball in Rhode Island.
Super Fun Activities Club
Based in Providence, the Super Fun Activities Club (SFAC) run a number of different events of all kind throughout the year.
One of their popular activities is pickleball. The SFAC runs two distinct pickleball opportunities: an intro to pickleball course for beginners and a 3.5 Ladder for more advanced players of skill level 3.5 or above.
Pickleball Tournaments
Ocean State Pickleball Classic
The Ocean State Pickleball Classic is a tournament sponsored by the Bristol Pickleball Club. It is a mixed doubles event with three different skill level branches:
- Recreational (below 3.0)
- Intermediate (3.0/3.5)
- Advanced (4.0+).
There is a $30 registration fee which includes a provided lunch.
Pickleball Lessons
One of the best ways to get started with lessons in the Rhode Island region is to get in touch with Ocean State Pickleball. They offer group classes and clinics for beginner players. If you’re a more advanced player, they have leagues available to join.
Try getting in touch with a local pickleball or racquet club in your area. Most racquet clubs have teaching professionals on hand to help you get started. Even if they don’t have a pickleball pro, they will likely be able to point you in the right direction!
