To some, April is the time of spring showers, but to many in the Wausau area, it’s the kick-off to pickleball season! Pickleball is a paddle sport that mixes elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong.  It’s played on a badminton-sized court and is an accessible activity that is loved by all ages.  

If you’ve been meaning to get into the rapidly growing sport, we’ve compiled a list to get you started on what you’ll need and where you can go enjoy pickleball here in the Wausau area! 

Pickleball

Where to get started: 

Wausau Tennis and Pickleball Center 

  • The Wausau Tennis and Pickleball Center is going to be your best friend when it comes to getting started in pickleball. The center hosts different classes for all levels and can connect you with the pickleball community. You can meet many pickleball coaches that’ll help hone your skills, along with understanding the basics and how the game is played. The Tennis Center is also where you can play pickleball during the off-season, winter months, or when it’s rainy.  

Showing up 

  • Another fantastic way to learn how to play is showing up to the courts! The pickleball community is very open to teaching and playing with newcomers. The best part about pickleball is how adaptable the game can be. Whether you prefer slow and meticulous gameplay or a fast play style, you can shape the game to whatever fits your ability.  

Connect with Wausau Area Pickleball

  • Wausau Area Pickleball is a dedicated group in the community that promotes pickleball in the Wausau area. In addition to expanding the sport, they are actively involved in collaborating with the local community to improve and enhance pickleball facilities, ensuring that players of all backgrounds have access to great places to play and enjoy the game. 

 

Where to get gear: 

  • Many of the chain sporting goods stores have pickleball paddles and balls at varying prices. You can also find beginner and inexpensive paddles at big-box stores. These are great since they are low commitment and can help give you an idea if you want to commit to the sport and a more expensive paddle.  

  • You can also try different paddles from other pickleball players! The pickleball community is super welcoming, and most players are open to having you try their paddle. This allows you to try various paddles that have different abilities and can help you get a sense of what you want.  

  • Many players get their professional gear online. Many resources explain different paddles and playing styles online. You can also talk with other players to see where they get their gear.  

  • Some court locations also have free paddles to use that are open to the community. 

 

Where to play:

​Outdoor Courts

  • Marathon Park: 1201 Stewart Avenue, Wausau, WI 54401 (FREE) 

  • DC Everest High School: 6400 Alderson Street, Weston, WI 54476 (FREE, Nets not provided) 

  • 3M Park:  405 Park Boulevard, Wausau, WI 54401 (FREE, Nets not provided) 

Pickleball at Marathon Park

Photo Credits: Hmong Pickleballers of Wausau, Choua Khang

Indoor Courts

  • Wausau Tennis and Pickleball Center: 928 McDonald Street, Wausau, WI 54403 (Sign up on the Court Reserve App to see play dates/times and cost.  Reduced rates for Wausau Tennis & Pickleball Centre members. Reservations required on Court Reserve - no walk-ins). 

  • Greenheck Turner Community Center: 6400 Alderson Street, Weston, WI 54476 (Reservation is required, and you’ll need to bring your own net. See their website for availability and fees).

  • Woodson YMCA Wausau Branch: 707 Third Street, Wausau, WI 54403 (Free for members; non-members can purchase a day pass. See their website for availability).

  • YMCA Aspirus Branch: 3402 Howland Avenue, Weston, WI 54476 (Free for members; non-members can purchase a day pass. See their website for availability).

We hope you join in on the pickleball train this season! We’ll see you on the courts!