San Francisco Launches Pickleball Pilot: San Francisco’s Recreation and Park Department has started a groundbreaking pilot program designed to enhance access to affordable pickleball and tennis lessons. Partnering with Rec Technologies, the initiative provides players with a network of professional instructors, ensuring safety and quality. This pilot program marks a significant step in making high-caliber lessons available to a broader audience, with real-time adjustments based on feedback.
Program Details and Instructor Network
The pilot, now operational, features over 40 vetted and licensed instructors who offer one-on-one or small-group lessons at select neighborhood courts. Booking is streamlined through an online portal, facilitating access for players of all levels. According to Phil Ginsburg, General Manager of SF Rec and Park Department, the program aims to “maximize play for everyone,” offering a convenient and safe learning environment.
“The goal is maximizing play for everyone, while allowing players a convenient and safe way to learn from professional instructors in their neighborhood park.” – (Phil Ginsburg)
Participating Courts and Lesson Rates
Participating courts include prominent locations such as Alice Marble, Buena Vista, and Moscone, among others. Instructors set their hourly rates, which are expected to be significantly lower than those of private alternatives. Group lessons are capped at three players for tennis and four for pickleball, ensuring a personalized experience.
Participating Courts in the Pilot Program
The pilot program features pickleball and tennis lessons at the following courts:
- Alice Marble
- Balboa
- Buena Vista
- Crocker Amazon
- DuPont
- Glen Canyon
- Hamilton
- Helen Wills
- Jackson
- Joe DiMaggio
- Lafayette
- Minnie & Lovie Ward
- Moscone
- Mountain Lake
- Parkside Square
- Presidio Wall
- Richmond
- Rossi
- St. Mary’s
- Sunset
News in Brief: San Francisco Launches Pickleball Pilot
San Francisco’s Recreation and Park Department has launched a pilot program with Rec Technologies to provide affordable pickleball and tennis lessons. The initiative offers access to a network of over 40 background-checked instructors through an online booking system.
Lessons are available at select neighborhood courts, with rates anticipated to be lower than private options. The program is designed to enhance accessibility and will adjust based on participant feedback.
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