Rye Pickleball Club

Rye Pickleball Club is a friendly, fast-growing community club based at Rye Leisure Centre in East Sussex. Launched in late 2024 with just 16 members and a single weekly session, the club has grown rapidly to over 75 members across three weekly sessions, quickly becoming a well-known fixture in the local sporting and social scene.

Sessions welcome players of all ages and abilities, from those picking up a paddle for the very first time to those returning to sport after many years. The style of play is primarily social and community-focused, combining open social play, light rotation and match play, and informal skill development. The emphasis throughout is on enjoyment, inclusion and building confidence in a relaxed, non-intimidating environment. Equipment is available for beginners, and introductory guidance is offered during sessions.

The club has developed a strong social identity, often described as "dinks, drinks, and good company," with players regularly gathering before and after sessions, making it as much a social hub as a sporting activity. While sessions are currently informal in nature, the club actively supports beginner learning during play and is exploring opportunities for more structured coaching and development as it continues to grow.

Three weekly sessions run at Rye Leisure Centre: Tuesday 18:00 - 20:00, Saturday 12:00 - 14:00, and Sunday 10:00 - 13:00. Sessions book up quickly and new players are encouraged to contact Rye Leisure Centre directly to book in advance. A racquet sports membership is available at £15 per year, allowing members to book up to eight days ahead; non-members can book up to three days in advance.

Rye Pickleball Club works in collaboration with Rye Leisure Centre and the Rye Recreation & Wellbeing CIO to support wider access to health, fitness and social connection through sport in the local community.