Pickleball Festival 16th May 2026

Donyngs Leisure Centre marked an exciting milestone on Saturday 16 May 2026 with the success of its very first Pickleball Festival, bringing together 40 players for a vibrant and energetic day of sport and community spirit.

The event welcomed a mix of new players and seasoned regulars, creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere on court. Fast-paced rallies and rotating matches ensured everyone had the chance to play, meet others and enjoy the growing sport. The festival was expertly hosted by coaches David Reed and Maurizio Auletta, alongside General Manager Tony Blatchford, who kept the day running smoothly and ensured every participant felt part of the action.

Alongside the social play, the festival featured a light-hearted competition element, with awards recognising both performance and sportsmanship. Highlights of the day included a warm and supportive environment, great camaraderie, and a perfect balance of fun and competitive play. Off the court, players enjoyed a buffet and refreshments while sharing match highlights and celebrating the day together.

Award winners were as follows: Sportsmanship awards went to Terri Partridge and Mike Beaver. In the Ladies’ category, Liz Smith took first place, followed by Molly Jee in second and Jane Stuart in third. In the Men’s category, Jack Jee finished first, with Neil Brunwin second and Robyn Holmes third.

Pickleball continues to grow in popularity at Donyngs, having expanded from just two courts and one session in 2024 to multiple weekly sessions accommodating up to 32 players. With its simple rules and accessible format, the sport is attracting players of all abilities.

Following the success of the festival, more Pickleball events and sessions are planned, speak to the team on-site to get involved.