Complete Guide to Pickleball in Williamson County

Why Pickleball Is Taking Off in WilCo

Pickleball has become the fastest-growing sport in Williamson County, and seniors are leading the charge. The game is easy to learn, gentle on joints compared to tennis, and deeply social. Whether you have never picked up a paddle or you have been playing for years, there is a place for you on a court somewhere between Georgetown and Pflugerville.

This guide covers the best places to play, beginner-friendly groups, organized leagues, and tips for getting started.

Where to Play: Courts Across the County

Williamson County has invested heavily in pickleball infrastructure over the past few years, and dedicated courts are now available in most cities.

• Sun City Texas (Georgetown). Sun City has some of the best pickleball facilities in Central Texas, with over 20 dedicated courts at the Sports Complex. Play is organized through the Sun City Pickleball Club, which offers open play, round robins, and competitive ladders. Residents and their guests can access the courts, and the club welcomes all skill levels.
• Clay Madsen Recreation Center (Round Rock). The rec center offers indoor pickleball on gymnasium courts, which is a major advantage during the summer heat. Open play sessions are scheduled multiple times per week, and the city runs beginner clinics each quarter.
• Old Settlers Park (Round Rock). Outdoor dedicated pickleball courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Morning play before 10 a.m. is popular with the senior crowd to beat the Texas heat.
• Brushy Creek Community Center (Cedar Park area). Indoor courts with regular open play times. The Brushy Creek MUD schedules senior-specific sessions on weekday mornings.
• Pflugerville Recreation Center. The rec center has converted several tennis courts to pickleball and offers drop-in play and introductory workshops.
• Georgetown Recreation Center. Located on Industrial Avenue, this facility offers both indoor and outdoor courts with organized play throughout the week.

Getting Started as a Beginner

If you have never played pickleball before, the learning curve is gentle. Here is how to start:

1. Try a beginner clinic. Round Rock Parks and Recreation and Georgetown Parks and Rec both offer introductory clinics for $10 to $20. These sessions cover the rules, basic strokes, and court etiquette. Check their seasonal program guides for schedules.
2. Borrow before you buy. Many open play sessions have loaner paddles available. Play a few times before investing in your own equipment.
3. Start with open play. Open play sessions are casual and welcoming. Players rotate partners and courts, so you will meet people quickly and get matched with others at your level.
4. Watch YouTube tutorials. Channels focused on pickleball fundamentals can help you understand scoring, positioning, and the all-important kitchen rule before you step on the court.

Leagues and Organized Play

Once you are comfortable with the basics, Williamson County offers several ways to play more competitively:

• Sun City Pickleball Club runs internal leagues organized by skill rating. This is one of the most active clubs in Central Texas.
• WilCo Pickleball Association organizes inter-city play, seasonal tournaments, and social mixers at various courts around the county.
• Round Rock Pickleball Group coordinates play at Old Settlers Park and Clay Madsen through a private Facebook group. Posting your skill level and preferred times makes it easy to find partners.
• YMCA Twin Lakes (Cedar Park) offers pickleball as part of its group fitness programming, with sessions tailored for active older adults.

For seniors looking for a mix of exercise and friendship, league play is hard to beat. Most groups organize post-game coffee or lunch outings, and holiday tournaments have become social highlights of the season.

Gear and Tips

You do not need much to get started. A mid-range paddle ($50 to $80), comfortable court shoes with good lateral support, and athletic clothing are all you need. A few practical tips for playing in Central Texas:

• Play early in the morning or in the evening during summer months. Heat-related illness is a real concern from June through September.
• Bring a water bottle and drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat for outdoor play.
• Stretch before and after play. Pickleball is low-impact but still involves quick lateral movements that can strain muscles if you are not warmed up.

Check our Recreation & Activities directory for more sports, fitness, and social opportunities across Williamson County.