New Here? Let's Get You Playing
Never picked up a paddle? Perfect. JEM PicklePlace is where first-timers fall in love with the fastest-growing, most addictive sport around. No experience, no gear, no pressure. Just bring yourself and we’ll handle the rest.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
What You Learn In Beginner Programs & Lessons
Our Learn to Play sessions are designed to introduce beginners to the fundamentals of the game. Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn the basic rules, etiquette, techniques, and strategies to get you comfortable on the court. No experience or equipment is needed, just bring your enthusiasm and let’s play!
Essential Skills
You'll learn to control the game through soft-touch shots like dinking, volleying and deep serves.
Basic Rules
You'll learn the key takeaways: serving diagonally, letting the ball bounce once on each side, and who scores points and how.
Strategy
You'll learn strategies based on position, patience and consistency to gain the advantage.
Equipment
You'll be shown paddle types, the pickleballs, and the right budget-friendly court shoes and clothing.
Ways to Start at JEM
Intro to Pickleball
A fun, 1-hour intro to the game. True-beginner friendly, it clears up everything you need to start playing, no experience necessary. Learn paddle selection, basic scoring and the court basics.
Beginner Clinic
A structured small-group clinic where our coaches break down the fundamentals step by step. Perfect once you’ve got the basics and want focused practice on technique, footwork and consistency before you move into open play.
Newbie Socials
Meet, greet and play with other brand-new players in a relaxed, social setting. No pros allowed, just like-minded newbies, friendly games and a whole lot of fun. It’s the easiest, most welcoming way to get comfortable on the court.
Lessons
Want a little extra guidance? Book one-on-one or small-group lessons with our coaches and progress at your own pace. We’ll tailor every session to your goals in a supportive, welcoming environment so you build confidence and improve faster.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your First Time on the Court
Walking into something new can feel intimidating. At JEM PicklePlace, it’s the opposite. From the moment you arrive, our team makes sure you feel at home: no awkward questions, no judgement, just good people and great energy.
Your first session is all about the basics. You’ll learn how to hold the paddle, how scoring works, where to stand and the few key rules that make pickleball click. Before you know it you’re rallying, laughing and wondering why you didn’t start sooner.
Come solo or bring a friend. Everyone on the court was a beginner once, and that welcoming, social vibe is what keeps people coming back.
GOOD TO KNOW
About Skill Levels & Ratings
At JEM PicklePlace, you’ll see a lot of different levels on courts and online schedules. Here’s a quick introduction to player ratings.
Did You Know About Pickleball Ratings?
Pickleball uses a rating system to show how skilled a player is. Ratings usually go from 1.0 (brand-new beginner) to 5.5 or higher (professional level). These ratings are based on how well a player hits the ball consistently, controls their shots, and uses smart strategies during games.
There are a few common rating systems, like DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), which tracks match results to estimate a player’s skill level.
Whoa, that’s sounding intense, but it doesn’t have to be! Beginners are encouraged to just learn and have fun.
Don't know your rating? That's ok.
Unsure of your skill level? We’re here to help. Our team can guide you through a simple assessment or recommend the best starting level so you feel confident stepping on court. We also run a variety of clinics designed to build your skills, improve your game and help you progress at your own pace, all in a supportive, welcoming environment.
1.0
Beginner
2.5
Novice
3.5
Intermediate
4.5
Advanced
5.5+
Pro
FIRST-TIMER FAQ
No Silly Questions Here
We want you to feel at home from the moment you walk in. Here are a few things first-timers often ask.
Nope. Come try it out before committing to anything. Our intro sessions and Newbie Socials are made for exactly this.
Absolutely. Most people show up solo. You’ll be paired up and playing with other beginners in no time.
Comfortable athletic clothes and proper court shoes (running shoes work to start). Bring water and a good attitude.
No problem. We have demo paddles you can try, so you can find what feels right before buying your own.
Pricing varies by program. Reach out and we’ll get you all the details.