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Open Play
WHAT IS OPEN PLAY?
Members arrive at the courts between the designated hours. First players to arrive take the courts and those waiting place their paddles in the paddle rack. When the game is over, winners split and the next two players waiting take the court.
OPEN COURT PLAY TYPES
- Open Play is for all skill levels.
- Beginner Open Play is for 2.0-3.
- Advanced Open Play is for 3.50 and higher.
- Point Play is limited to 16 players and reservations are required through playtime scheduler. You will play 7 timed games in two hours with different partners and opponents each game. The player with the most points at the end is the winner.
- Family Open Play is designed for children and adults to play together.
- Dinking Only is played 100% at the no volley line; dinking and fast hands only.
Classes
INTRO: This class is designed for brand new players to learn the sport of Pickleball. Players will learn all the basics to be able to play. Class will cover equipment, unique lingo, score keeping, court position, and the fundamentals of serve, return, and the volley. This class is $10 and only meets once.
BEGINNER: These classes are designed to build a solid technical foundation and expose new players to basic strategy through instruction, engaging practice, and fun social interaction. Classes will cover; serves, groundstrokes, dinks, volleys, lobs, and overheads. Each class includes, technique introduction and drills, a strategy exposure game, and gameplay practice.
STRATEGY: These classes are designed to build off of the fundamental techniques in pickleball. This class will teach you slightly more advanced techniques, skills, and a big focus on strategies to take your game to the next level.
DRILLS: These classes are specific exercises designed to practice and improve specific pickleball skills. Drills help you commit the proper pickleball mechanics to muscle memory. By committing skills to muscle memory, you can react and respond instinctively, while using their mental skills to focus on strategy on the court.
FEES
MONTHLY: $30/month
Fees appear as member rates. Community participants/non-members pay an additional $20 eligible programs, unless otherwise indicated.
Holiday Schedule: Sessions impacted by a holiday that meet fewer than four times a month will be prorated for the reduced class schedule.
Leagues
ABOUT LEAGUES: Leagues for Session A are for the Intermediate/Advanced Player (3.0-4.0). There will be 5 weeks of round robin play. Each night you will play three different teams with a total of six round robin games each night. The sixth week there will be a seeded double elimination tournament to determine league champion. You do need a partner. Junior Skill & Drill—no partner needed. 30 minute clinic followed by 1 hour point play for 5 weeks.
FEES
$50/PERSON
Fees appear as member rates. Community participants/non-members pay an additional $20 for eligible programs, unless otherwise indicated.
FAQs
The Pickle Center is new at the Greater Wichita YMCA - these are the most common questions asked. Have a different one? Ask at any Welcome Desk or use our CONTACT US form.
Do you have to be a YMCA member?
As a YMCA member you can reserve a court and participate in open play, leagues and tournaments and have access to special events. If you are not a member, there is a $10 guest fee. (Link to guest fees) You must bring photo ID.
What if I am not a YMCA member?
You can Join Today and enjoy the many benefits of being a member of the Greater Wichita YMCA!
Do I need my own equipment?
The YMCA has limited paddles that can be checked out at the front desk. We do ask you to wear non-marking court shoes when you play at the YMCA.
Can I hold a private party or corporate event?
Yes. Please call 316-942-2271 to inquire about hosting your next event at the Pickle Center.
How do I reserve a court?
Please call the West YMCA at 316-942-2271 to reserve a court. You can check court availability.
What times are the courts open?
Monday thru Thursday 4:30am-10pm
Friday 4:30am-9pm
Saturday and Sunday 6:30am-7:00pm
Hours may vary on holidays or because of unexpected weather. Please see open play schedule.
Are there court fees?
Members and non-members can reserve a court exclusively for their group at $10/hr per court. Non-members are required to pay the guest fee. There is no added fee for members to use the courts during open play.
What is the cancellation policy for court reservations?
Payment is due at time of reservations. If you are unable to utilize the court at the time you reserved, you will not be given a refund.
I am a beginner, where do I start?
We encourage all beginners to take a monthly class. We also have open play times just for beginners. We also encourage beginners to become familiar with pickleball by watching these introductory videos on YMCA360.
What are your open play rules? How much is open play?
We want everyone to have a very fair and enjoyable time playing. We will have volunteer ambassadors to host during our more popular open plays but if an ambassador isn't present, there are guidelines present at the facility for players to abide by.
Do you offer classes?
Yes, we offer monthly classes for beginners, intermediate and juniors (8-14 years of age). The classes are held monthly once a week for an hour and are $30 a month for members.
Open Play
WHAT IS OPEN PLAY?
Members arrive at the courts between the designated hours. First players to arrive take the courts and those waiting place their paddles in the paddle rack. When the game is over, winners split and the next two players waiting take the court.
OPEN COURT PLAY TYPES
- Open Play is for all skill levels.
- Beginner Open Play is for 2.0-3.
- Advanced Open Play is for 3.50 and higher.
- Point Play is limited to 16 players and reservations are required through playtime scheduler. You will play 7 timed games in two hours with different partners and opponents each game. The player with the most points at the end is the winner.
- Family Open Play is designed for children and adults to play together.
- Dinking Only is played 100% at the no volley line; dinking and fast hands only.
Classes
INTRO: This class is designed for brand new players to learn the sport of Pickleball. Players will learn all the basics to be able to play. Class will cover equipment, unique lingo, score keeping, court position, and the fundamentals of serve, return, and the volley. This class is $10 and only meets once.
BEGINNER: These classes are designed to build a solid technical foundation and expose new players to basic strategy through instruction, engaging practice, and fun social interaction. Classes will cover; serves, groundstrokes, dinks, volleys, lobs, and overheads. Each class includes, technique introduction and drills, a strategy exposure game, and gameplay practice.
STRATEGY: These classes are designed to build off of the fundamental techniques in pickleball. This class will teach you slightly more advanced techniques, skills, and a big focus on strategies to take your game to the next level.
DRILLS: These classes are specific exercises designed to practice and improve specific pickleball skills. Drills help you commit the proper pickleball mechanics to muscle memory. By committing skills to muscle memory, you can react and respond instinctively, while using their mental skills to focus on strategy on the court.
FEES
MONTHLY: $30/month
Fees appear as member rates. Community participants/non-members pay an additional $20 eligible programs, unless otherwise indicated.
Holiday Schedule: Sessions impacted by a holiday that meet fewer than four times a month will be prorated for the reduced class schedule.
Leagues
YMCA Men’s Pickleball Ladder League
The YMCA Men’s Pickleball Ladder League is gearing up for an action-packed season, and this is your chance to be part of a highly competitive, high-energy program built just for men who love the game. Whether you’re a confident beginner or a seasoned player, this league gives every athlete the chance to push their limits, rise through the tiers, and compete at a level that matches their drive.
Our league uses a dynamic ladder system that keeps the competition intense and constantly evolving:
- The top two teams in each division move up to take on stronger challengers.
- The bottom two teams move down and fight their way back.
Every match matters. Every week brings new opponents. And every team has a real opportunity to climb.
All participants must register with a partner. Choose someone who matches your competitiveness, consistency, and determination. Strong teamwork and communication will be essential as you battle your way up the ladder.
At the YMCA, we’re committed to building programs that support strength, camaraderie, and personal growth. Expect spirited matchups, a driven community of men who love the sport, and an environment that pushes you to improve while having a great time.
Spots are limited and fill quickly. If you’re ready for a season full of intensity, challenge, and outstanding pickleball, secure your spot in the YMCA Men’s Pickleball Ladder League today. Let’s make this the strongest season yet.
YMCA Advanced Mixed Pickleball Ladder League
The YMCA is launching a competitive Mixed Pickleball Ladder League designed specifically for advanced players seeking fast-paced, high-level play. This league is built for athletes who thrive on precision, strategy, and a strong competitive edge.
To ensure top-tier matchups, all participants must have a minimum DUPR rating of 3.75. This requirement keeps the level of play consistent, challenging, and worthy of the most dedicated competitors.
Our ladder structure provides continuous movement and meaningful progression:
- The top two teams in each division move up to face tougher opponents.
- The bottom two teams move down, regroup, and push to climb again.
Every match carries weight. With changing opponents and shifting divisions, players must bring focus, adaptability, and strong team chemistry to stay at the top.
Teams must register as mixed pairs. Choose a partner whose playing style complements yours—communication, discipline, and high-level consistency will be critical to navigating the intensity of ladder play.
At the YMCA, we’re committed to offering programs that challenge athletes while fostering sportsmanship, growth, and community. Expect competitive rallies, strategic battles, and an environment full of players who take the game seriously and bring their best every time they step on the court.
Registration is limited and designed for players who are ready for a demanding, highly competitive season. If you’re prepared to elevate your game and compete among the area’s strongest mixed-level teams, secure your place in the YMCA Advanced Mixed Pickleball Ladder League today.
YMCA Advanced Beginner Pickleball Ladder League
The YMCA is excited to introduce a Ladder League designed specifically for advanced beginners—players who have moved past the basics and are ready to take on more structured, competitive play. If you’re developing consistency, improving strategy, and eager to test your skills in real match settings, this league is the perfect next step.
This program is open to any team combination—men’s, women’s, or mixed—giving players the flexibility to choose the partner who best matches their style and pace as they continue building confidence on the court.
The league follows an engaging ladder format:
- Teams finishing at the top of their division move up to face stronger opponents.
- Teams at the bottom shift down, gaining opportunities to reset, grow, and climb again.
This structure keeps matchups competitive, motivating, and well-balanced for players still sharpening their game.
While the competition will be energetic, the focus of this league is skill development, smart play, and gaining match experience in a supportive YMCA environment. Expect a steady challenge, a positive community, and plenty of opportunities to expand your abilities week after week.
Registration is limited to maintain balanced divisions and high-quality play. If you’re ready to elevate your game, face new opponents, and continue building your foundation through competitive fun, secure your spot in the YMCA Advanced Beginner Pickleball Ladder League.
50+ Mixed Pickleball Ladder League – Every Point Counts!
Get ready for a season of fast-paced, competitive pickleball designed specifically for players 50 and over! This isn’t just a league—it’s a high-energy, action-packed playground where every match, every game, and every point matters.
Teams will play two matches per week, each consisting of three full games, so there’s no coasting—every rally counts toward your season success. Win, lose, or fight for every point, because all games and points feed directly into your team’s end-of-season tournament seeding. The stakes are high, the competition is fierce, and every match is an opportunity to climb the ladder.
This is a mixed league, welcoming players of all skill levels 50 and over who want to sharpen their game, test their strategy, and enjoy spirited, social competition. Expect fast rallies, tactical plays, friendly rivalries, and plenty of laughs along the way.
If you thrive on challenge, love the thrill of competition, and want a season where every point counts, this is the league for you. Gather your team, bring your best game, and get ready to make this season unforgettable!
Sign up today—spots are limited and the excitement is guaranteed!
FEES
$50/PERSON
Fees appear as member rates. Community participants/non-members pay an additional $20 for eligible programs, unless otherwise indicated.