ABOUT US
Our story
Pickleball Cape Town NPC was founded in 2022 by Kim and Gunther Wagner, a husband-and-wife team who fell in love with the sport’s unique ability to connect people of all ages and backgrounds.
What began as a simple curiosity — sparked by pickleball’s rapid global rise — soon evolved into a heartfelt vision: to build an inclusive, purpose-driven community where no one gets left behind.
With deep roots in Cape Town’s Cape Flats and a shared passion for youth empowerment, Kim and Gunther saw pickleball as far more than a sport — it was a tool for upliftment, unity, and joy. Together, they established Pickleball Cape Town NPC, now a registered non-profit, to grow the game while creating opportunities for young people across the Western Cape.
Their journey was strengthened by the unwavering support of Nicholas and Yvonne van Slyck, avid pickleballers from the Miriam Brown Pickleball community in Charleston, South Carolina, who moved to South Africa and spent two years in Cape Town. Their generosity — through equipment, financial support, time, energy, and Godly guidance — became the foundation upon which Pickleball Cape Town was built.
“What started with a few paddles and a shared vision has grown into a movement — proof that with faith, community, and heart, incredible things can happen.”
OUR GOALS AND COMMITMENTS
Empower At-Risk Youth
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
We’re dedicated to creating safe, nurturing spaces where children from disadvantaged backgrounds can play, learn, and grow with confidence. Through weekly coaching sessions, mentorship, and team engagement, youth discover more than just a sport — they find belonging, purpose, and self-belief. Pickleball becomes a platform for resilience, responsibility, and hope.
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
Promote Diversity and Inclusion
Pickleball is one of the few sports where age, gender, and background disappear once the game begins. Whether it’s university students, farmworkers’ children, or senior citizens, everyone plays side by side. By removing barriers of cost, access, and ability, we’re building a community that celebrates difference and values connection.
Build Sustainable Community Programs
Develop South Africa’s Future Champions
Develop South Africa’s Future Champions
We don’t just introduce Pickleball — we build lasting structures around it. From equipment drives and school partnerships to leadership training and education support, every program is designed for long-term impact. Our Pickleball Shoe Library and youth outreach initiatives ensure that no one is left on the sidelines for lack of resources.
Develop South Africa’s Future Champions
Develop South Africa’s Future Champions
Develop South Africa’s Future Champions
With Pickleball’s anticipated inclusion in the Olympics, we see a unique opportunity to identify and develop South Africa’s next generation of sporting talent. Through our Project O32 initiative, we’re creating pathways for young players to train, compete, and dream beyond their circumstances — transforming potential into possibility, and possibility into pride for a nation.
MEET OUR CREW
KIM WAGNER: Vision & Community Development
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
GUNTHER WAGNER: Operations & Infrastructure
Kim is the driving force behind Pickleball Cape Town — a visionary leader passionate about building community, empowering youth, and using sport as a bridge for connection and opportunity. Her heart-led approach shapes every aspect of the organization’s growth and purpose. With a deep love for Africa, a flair for event planning, and a passion for travel, Kim brings creativity, warmth, and vision to everything she does.
GUNTHER WAGNER: Operations & Infrastructure
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
GUNTHER WAGNER: Operations & Infrastructure
Gunther brings structure and strategy to the dream. His practical insight and hands-on leadership ensure that the courts, systems, and logistics run smoothly — turning big ideas into sustainable, long-term impact. With a genuine heart for people and a deep desire for growth, development, and youth empowerment, Gunther leads as Head Coach for our youth programs, guiding and inspiring the next generation through sport and mentorship.
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
With an eye for opportunity and a deep belief in our mission, Peter leads our program development, funding, and sponsorship efforts. He builds bridges — connecting vision with possibility — to ensure that every partnership strengthens our reach and long-term sustainability. His love for Africa and his passion for community, youth, and upliftment drive everything he does, ensuring each collaboration creates real impact in Cape Town and beyond.
DINETTE STEYN: Strategy, Competitions & Coaching
DINETTE STEYN: Strategy, Competitions & Coaching
PETER SCHERR: Development, Funding & Sponsorships
Dinette combines strategic insight with a genuine love for people. Fun-loving and caring by nature, she brings warmth and encouragement to everything she does. Whether planning leagues or coaching on court, her approachable style brings out the best in every player she meets.
NICO STEYN: Events, Planning & Implementation
DINETTE STEYN: Strategy, Competitions & Coaching
TIMOTHY SMITH: Planning, Operations & Technology
Nico brings energy, creativity, and seamless coordination to every event. From local activations to large-scale gatherings, he ensures each occasion captures the spirit of fun, connection, and community that defines Pickleball Cape Town. His willingness to help and his love for a good braai make him the heartbeat of every get-together.
TIMOTHY SMITH: Planning, Operations & Technology
DINETTE STEYN: Strategy, Competitions & Coaching
TIMOTHY SMITH: Planning, Operations & Technology
Timothy merges passion with precision, managing tournament logistics and digital systems with care and creativity. His fun-loving nature, diligence, and commitment shine through in everything he does — making every experience smooth, efficient, and full of positive energy both on and off the court.
DAYNA SMITH: Project Management & Finance
DAYNA SMITH: Project Management & Finance
DAYNA SMITH: Project Management & Finance
Dayna keeps everything running smoothly — from budgets to projects — focus and flair. Her kind nature, love for good vibes, and fun spirit bring warmth to every space she’s in, making everyone feel part of the Pickleball Cape Town family.