How to Meet People While Traveling for Pickleball
From awkward hellos to new besties—here’s how players actually make connections on the road.
Showing up to a new pickleball court can feel like walking into a party where you don’t know anyone. Who do you ask to play with? Are you interrupting something? Is there a sign-up sheet no one told you about?
We get it. No matter the reason for your trip, finding your place on the court can feel tricky, but you’re not the only one navigating it. We asked real players for their best advice on how to meet people while traveling for pickleball—without overthinking it.
Step One: Just Show Up
“It can be intimidating, like any new social setting, but you just have to put yourself out there,” says Jaime Schmidt, a player who’s often hitting courts solo. “It’s the only way to grow as a player and expand your circle.”
Open play is your best bet. These drop-in sessions are built for meeting new people—no reservations, no pre-arranged partners. Check Facebook groups or club schedules before you go.
Quick tip: A simple “Hey, I’m Jaime—mind if I jump in next?” goes further than you think.
Not Every Game Will Feel Easy
“Not every interaction is going to feel easy, and you’re not going to click with everyone, and that’s okay,” Jaime adds. “I try to stay supportive, not take anyone’s off mood personally, and just focus on having fun.”
Good vibes go a long way. Even if someone’s not chatty, your energy on the court speaks for itself. Before you know it, you’re tapping paddles and laughing with a new group.
Quick tip: Let the game break the ice. A great rally says more than a perfect intro.
Don’t Be Afraid to Follow Up
“If you click with someone, ask for their number” says Jaime. “I’ve literally chased players down after a game to swap contact info. Some of those people have become my closest friends.”
And Jaime’s not the only one who’s had to step out of their comfort zone.
“At first, I’d just play and leave – I didn’t want to bother anyone,” says Tyler Nguyen, a rec player who travels frequently for work. “But once I started saying hi between games, everything changed. Some of my favorite matches have come from those quick conversations.”
It doesn’t need to be a big deal—just a casual “You here Thursdays too?” can lead to a recurring match (or a dinner invite after).
Quick tip: If you feel a connection, speak up. A simple “Want to play again sometime” is all it takes.
5 Easy Ways to Make Friends While Playing Pickleball on the Road
Hit up open play. Drop-in sessions are perfect for travelers and solo players.
Introduce yourself. A short, confident hello is often all it takes.
Keep your energy positive. People remember how you made them feel on the court.
Don’t take it personally. Some people just aren’t in the mood. Move on and keep playing.
Follow up. If you vibe with someone, ask to play again. That’s how friendships start.
Next time you find yourself on unfamiliar courts, remember this: you don’t need to be the most outgoing person to make a connection—you just need to show up, play with kindness, and be open to what comes next.
