Newcastle’s new home of social Pickleball
Looking for a new weekly hangout spot? Want to try something different, meet new people, or see what all the Pickleball hype is about?
The Courtyard, a newly redeveloped Pickleball space in Newcastle, is quickly becoming the city’s new court to get moving and be social, welcoming people of all ages and experience levels.
“We realised pickleball was really taking off, and we had this space that could be transformed into something genuinely social,” Co-Owner, Alex, says.
“We wanted to create something special, a place where people come together, have fun, and feel part of a community.”
Located in Broadmeadow, The Courtyard is open seven days a week, offering court hire, social sessions and beginner-friendly programs designed to make it easy for anyone to jump in and get involved.
What to Expect
Pickleball has become increasingly popular as a social sport in the last couple of years, and we can see this rise isn’t accidental. According to Alex, its appeal lies in accessibility.
“If I put four beginners on a tennis court, they’re probably not going to enjoy it,”. “There are a lot of rules, it’s a big space, and it can feel intimidating. Pickleball is different.”
With smaller courts, lighter balls, and a faster learning curve, pickleball allows players of all skill levels to jump in and enjoy the game almost immediately. Or simply have a laugh with friends as you try to work it all out.
“It’s fast-paced, but it’s also social. You’re close to each other, you can talk, laugh, and actually connect while you play. That’s what draws people in.” Alex says.
Social sessions at the Courtyard run most afternoons and weekends, using a “king of the court” sort of format that rotates players every few minutes.
“You’re constantly changing partners and opponents,” Alex explains. “Some people come with friends, others come alone, but by the end, everyone’s talking together”.
It’s not the Pub anymore, it’s the Courtyard!
Here at the Courtyard, Friday nights, in particular, have become a standout. With the courts hosting Under-35 social sessions, that blend physical activity with a relaxed, licensed venue atmosphere, play first, drink later.
“Instead of going straight out for a drink, you move your body, have fun, and hang out,” Alex says. “It’s a different way to be social.”
For the team behind the Courtyard, you can really tell the space is all about welcoming people in to have a good time and enjoy themselves.
“I want people walking in for the first time to feel the joy,” Alex says. “To look around and see people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life sharing the same space and having a good time.”
That community focus extends to events like the upcoming International Women’s Day session, where half the courts will be dedicated to social play and the other half to beginner-friendly “learn to play” sessions, alongside the offering of continuous bubbly and champers! This will take place on March 8, for tickets head to the Courtyard website.
Game. Set. Match!
With exciting things coming up, The Courtyard continues to build momentum, with upcoming events, expanded social sessions and new programs set to further cement it as one of Newcastle’s go-to social sports spaces.
For any questions or help getting your first game started, the team can be contacted through phone call and updates on events and programs are shared regularly via @thecourtyardpickleball on social media.
