Pickleball at City Walk BHAM is easy, inclusive + fun—here’s how to start playing

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If you’ve walked past the pink block at City Walk BHAM lately, you may have noticed something exciting happening on the courts: Pickleball is booming! And it’s not just a trend, it’s a community.

At the center of it all is Pye Parson, pickleball program manager, who’s on a mission to make the sport more accessible, inclusive and—above all—fun.

We sat down with Pye to give you all the information you need to start playing like a pro.

Pickleball 101

Players at City Walk range across all ages and levels of experience, so have no fear—getting started is easy.

• Do I need to bring my own gear? Yes, bring your own paddle + balls. If you’re just starting out, pick up a beginner set from your local sports store or big box store.
• When are the courts open? Courts are open daily 7AM-9PM.
• Do I need to reserve a court before I arrive? As long as a court is open, you can play at no cost to you. However, during peak play times, you’ll probably want to reserve a court—create a CWBPickleball membership to reserve courts in advance.
• Before you hit the court, be sure to read over the pickleball rules + regulations.

City Walk pickleball is about having fun

Pickleball manager Pye Parson’s philosophy is simple: keep it light, keep it fun and keep everyone moving.

“You can be as competitive as you want, but I’m more focused on fun for everybody. If we make it inclusive, that’s what makes people want to come out and give it a try.”

Pye Parson, Pickleball Program Manager, City Walk BHAM

It’s also great for your health, both physical and mental.

“[Pickleball] is a great way to run without getting hurt, it’s a little more low impact. So it’s something you can do even if you’re recuperating from a minor injury or if you’ve been sitting on the couch for too long and you’re ready to get active again.

I think it helps your brain to be outside, moving your body and interacting with other people.”

Pye Parson, Pickleball Program Manager, City Walk BHAM

Weekly pickleball events at City Walk BHAM

Ready to get in the game? Check out the beginner clinic happening twice a week at City Walk BHAM:

• Beginner Pickleball Clinic
  • What: A great next step to build skills + boost confidence! No experience needed.
  • When: Thursdays 6-7PM | Saturdays 10-11AM

That’s not all—City Walk BHAM’s pickleball scene is only getting bigger with some new additions happening summer.

Here’s a look at what you can expect soon:

• Pickleball pro shop: Grab high-quality gear right on-site.
• Men’s + women’s leagues: Beginning in June, leagues will use DUPR, an official global rating system that helps you track your progress + play against new opponents.
• Pickleball tournaments: Tournaments start in August 2025, kicking off with a fundraiser for the Jimmy Hale Mission on August 23.

Check out City Walk BHAM’s monthly calendar for more events + details.

Get in the game at City Walk BHAM

Stop by the pink block and experience the good vibes for yourself. Need help getting around? Check out our ultimate walking guide to City Walk BHAM.

Follow City Walk BHAM for updates, events + to sign up for classes.

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