How can a beginner start playing pickleball in Markham?Beginners in Markham can start on free outdoor courts in season, join City drop-ins year-round, or take lessons. The Markham Pickleball Club runs a beginner Learn to Play program outdoors from July to October, which returns in May 2027; its fall programs are for players with some experience. Premier Racquet Club offers private lessons and open play from October to April. To start, you need a paddle, a few balls and non-marking court shoes. Learn the two-bounce rule and the non-volley zone, then find a regular group.
Pickleball is easy to start and hard to put down. A few basics and the right first group make the learning curve much smoother.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, created this guide for new players and families settling into Markham.
Where to learn
| Option | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Markham Pickleball Club Learn to Play | July to October outdoors; returns May 2027 | Held at the Markham Civic Centre courts in 2026 |
| City drop-ins | Year-round | Casual play at community centres; skill levels vary |
| Premier Racquet Club | October to April | Private lessons, open play and mixers |
| YMCA programs | Seasonal | The Markham YMCA has run pickleball clinics and leagues |
What to bring
- Paddle: a mid-weight beginner paddle is enough.
- Balls: outdoor balls for outdoor courts; indoor venues may supply their own.
- Shoes: non-marking court shoes, required at Cornell and most indoor venues.
- Extras: water, a hat and sunscreen outdoors.
New to Markham?
Michael John Lau can help you find a home close to the parks and programs you will use.
Book a consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Basic rules to know
- Serve underhand, diagonally, and let the return bounce.
- Two-bounce rule: each side lets the ball bounce once before volleying.
- Do not volley while standing in the non-volley zone, called the kitchen.
- Only the serving side scores, usually in games to 11, win by 2.
Court etiquette
At busy courts such as Cornell, the rotation board decides who plays next, and play is doubles only when others are waiting. Rotate off after your game, keep voices down, and wait for a rally to end before crossing a court.
Finding a regular game
- Join the Markham Pickleball Club for member programs and events.
- Go to the same drop-in session each week; regular groups form quickly.
- Try a quieter outdoor court on weekday mornings in season.
See the best free courts for beginners. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before your first game.
Every pickleball player started with one first game. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I learn pickleball in Markham?
Through the Markham Pickleball Club's Learn to Play program in season, City drop-ins, Premier Racquet Club lessons or YMCA programs.
When does the beginner Learn to Play program run?
It ran outdoors from July to October in 2026 and is expected to return in May 2027.
What do I need to start playing pickleball?
A paddle, a few balls and non-marking court shoes.
What is the kitchen in pickleball?
The non-volley zone near the net, where you cannot hit the ball out of the air.
Are there beginner sessions in winter?
City drop-ins run year-round, and Premier Racquet Club offers lessons and open play from October to April.
How do I find people to play with?
Join a club, attend the same drop-in each week, or visit a quieter court regularly.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Markham Pickleball Club details are from the club's Pickleball Canada pages (fall 2026). Premier Racquet Club details are from the club's Markham pickleball page. Outdoor court locations, hours and Cornell rules are from the City of Markham pickleball page (updated May 19, 2026). YMCA program listings are from YMCA of Greater Toronto. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
