OUR PROGRAMS
Unlock the power of pickleball for all
Pickleball Cape Town NPC operates entirely as a non-profit organization, sustained solely by the generosity of our community. We currently receive no external funding from businesses, organizations, or government bodies — our growth depends on the passion and commitment of those who believe in the power of sport to connect and uplift.
Our members volunteer their time, and every rand raised through open play and court rentals goes directly toward the maintenance and upkeep of our courts and facilities.
Our community programs and youth initiatives are primarily self-funded by members, with occasional support from sponsors who share our vision. This collaborative spirit ensures that we continue to provide meaningful, inclusive, and joy-filled pickleball experiences for everyone — regardless of background or ability.
HOW WE DO IT
BE A CATALYST FOR CHANGE!
Every child deserves the chance to succeed — especially those most at risk. At Pickleball Cape Town, we’re committed to creating safe, supportive spaces where vulnerable youth can learn, grow, and thrive.
Through our specialized programs, we provide mentorship, skill-building, and life-enriching opportunities that inspire confidence and purpose. The extraordinary power of sport — and pickleball in particular — has already brought about positive change in the lives of many young people and disadvantaged communities.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to provide equal opportunities, nurture pride, and champion education through sport. Guided by pickleball’s spirit of inclusion, effort, and respect, we’ve built a compassionate environment where every player matters.
TESTIMONIAL
EVERY RALLY BUILDS COURAGE. EVERY CONNECTION SPARKS CHANGE.
At Pickleball Cape Town, our vision stretches far beyond the lines of the court. We’re building partnerships and connections across South Africa — using pickleball as a powerful catalyst for unity, development, and lasting change.
Our long-term goal is to see our methods and holistic approach — combining sport, education, and community upliftment — adopted countrywide, inspiring a new generation to play with heart and purpose.
OUR CORE PROGRAMS
Vlaeberg Farm Community Program
Vlaeberg Farm Community Program
Vlaeberg Farm Community Program
Each week, children of farm workers from the surrounding farms join us on court for guided play, mentorship, and life-skills development. For many, it’s their first introduction to organized sport — a safe, supportive space where they learn the value of teamwork, discipline, and belonging. Through playing pickleball, and shared experiences, they’re building confidence, broadening their horizons, and discovering new possibilities that reach far beyond the game.
Calling Academy Partnership
Vlaeberg Farm Community Program
Vlaeberg Farm Community Program
Located in Stellenbosch, Calling Academy became the first school in the Western Cape to include pickleball in its sports curriculum. Learners not only discover a new sport but also build leadership, respect, and teamwork in a supportive environment that fosters confidence and motivation. Many who began in 2024 remain active players, now part of our social play community, continuing to grow in both skill and character through the game.
BEYOND THE COURTS
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC)
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC)
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC)
Our partnership with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) began through pickleball activations at the Para Sport Day and International Day of University Sport (IDUS) events. These sessions introduced the game to students, staff, and faculty — sparking an exciting initiative to integrate pickleball into staff wellness programs and develop university leagues. Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the launch of inter-university competitions, creating new opportunities for students to compete and lead the growth of pickleball across South Africa’s campuses.
LANGA - PLAY FOR CHANGE
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC)
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC)
Another future project will see us partner with a leading NPO supporting over 840 vulnerable youth in Cape Town’s Langa township, integrating pickleball into their after-school programs. Focused on foundation phase learners, the initiative uses play-based learning to develop motor skills, coordination, and confidence. From our own community experience, we’ve seen how pickleball can transform lives — especially for children affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome — enhancing focus, engagement, and a genuine love for learning through purposeful play.
PROJECT O32 – DEVELOPING FUTURE CHAMPIONS
BUILDING SOUTH AFRICA’S FUTURE OLYMPIANS
With all likelihood that pickleball will be included in the 2032 Olympic Games, Project O32 is our long-term vision to prepare and empower the next generation of South African players.
Phase 1: Identify schools across each province to introduce pickleball.
Phase 2: Provide access, coaching, and equipment to support structured youth development.
Phase 3: Establish provincial and national leagues to grow talent and representation across the country.
Our Hope: to see South African youth competing on the world stage — and winning with heart.
EXPANDING BEYOND THE WESTERN CAPE
SUPPORTING YOUTH, STRENGTHENING LEADERS, AND UNITING COMMUNITIES FOR IMPACT
Meetings with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and Star for Life have opened the door to the potential of exciting national collaborations. These included pickleball demonstrations and discussions to integrate the sport into Star for Life’s youth programs — marking a milestone in expanding pickleball’s reach beyond the Western Cape.
The scope extends beyond youth development, also encompassing Star for Life coaches and program coordinators through staff wellness initiatives that promote connection, health, and wellbeing.
As these partnerships grow, we aim to secure equipment and training support, collaborating with regional pickleball clubs to help bring this vision to life.
CREATING CHANGE: ONE PADDLE. ONE LEARNER. ONE PURPOSE.
EMPOWER A PICKLER
EMPOWER A PICKLER
EMPOWER A PICKLER
Help us level the playing field by donating your used paddles, balls, or gently worn court shoes.
Every item extends the life of the game and provides access to someone eager to play but limited by means.
A paddle has the power to change a life.
EDUCATE A PICKLER
EMPOWER A PICKLER
EMPOWER A PICKLER
Contribute stationery, books, or reading materials for learners of all ages.
Your support fuels the journey of learning and growth — helping young players excel both on the court and in the classroom.
Empower minds. The game will follow.
EMPLOY A PICKLER
EMPOWER A PICKLER
EMPLOY A PICKLER
Sponsor an international coaching certification for a school leaver or aspiring youth leader. Your contribution provides not just skills, but the gift of hope, enabling young adults to earn, teach, and uplift others through sport.
Empower a Pickler. Transform a life.