What is Pickleball Anyway?

Pickleball, a mash-up of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, is played on a court roughly a third the size of a tennis court. A net 34 (middle) to 36 (sides) inches high is suspended midway between the ends of the court. Players use a paddle, somewhat larger than a ping-pong paddle to hit a whiffle ball. The same size court is used to play both singles and doubles. Pickleball and its rules are easy to learn. Becoming expert, as with all sports, takes time and practice.
Who We Are
The Riderwood Pickleball Club–with over 100 members–includes players in their 60s, players in their 90s, and many in between. They possess a wide range of skills and abilities, from beginners through advanced players. Above all, they are enthusiastic and welcoming. For the most part, the emphasis is on fun and player improvement.
The Club supports a variety of activities. Check below for the schedule for the different activites.
Events 2026
For additional information on any event email Pickleball@RiderwoodLife.com
- Thursday, August 13, 2026, 7 pm to 9 pm, Chesapeake Room in Montgomery Station Movie: “The Dink” Popcorn provide. Bring your own beveridge. FREE
- Monday – Friday September 7-11, 2026 – Riderwood Fall Tournament – Games schedule the 7th, 8th and 9th with make up days being the 10th and 11th. Check your email for more information.
- Saturday – September 26, 2026 – Riderwood/Erickson Tournament (Rain date: 10/3/2026)
Play Schedules
Riderwood has two indoor pickleball courts (Wellness Center) and 6 dedicated outdoor courts (with a backboard for practice). In good weather, the outdoor courts are available most daylight hours for pickup games. Indoor courts are available for pickup play on a more limited basis. Not only is the space used for other wellness activities, but it also is used for regularly scheduled chair pickleball, pickleball instruction, and competitive ladder play.
When the indoor play schedule is open, players are welcome to take to the courts occasionally with family and friends. However, scheduled court time takes precedence over such informal play.
Instructional Workshops
Whether you are new to pickleball or looking to improve your game, our instructional workshops offer a friendly and supportive way to learn.
Instruction is provided in a relaxed, encouraging environment, with opportunities to ask questions and practice new skills. Workshops are intended for players at appropriate skill levels, from beginners learning the basics to more experienced players seeking to strengthen their technique and strategy.
Open Play
Open Play is the the opportunity for regularly-scheduled pickup games for all level players.
Pick your days and times; decide on your level; rotate partners and opponents; move among levels, studios, and hours. The choice is yours. Attend as often as you want; play with whom you want. And remember, it’s a game that makes for good exercise and good griends!
Chair Pickelball
Looking for a fun way to stay active, meet neighbors, and enjoy pickleball from a seated position? Join us for one of our two weekly Chair Pickleball sessions.
Players may use a chair provided at the court—either with or without arms—or bring their own wheelchair. Volunteers help retrieve missed balls and provide other assistance, so players can stay focused on the game instead of chasing balls around the court.
No previous experience is necessary, and players can participate at their own pace. Whether you are new to pickleball, adapting to a mobility limitation, or simply curious to try something different, come join us for an active and friendly community session.
Ladder Play
Participating in the “Ladder” is a unique way to have a guaranteed time to play (and have fun) competivley for an hour each week (3 games) with players of a similar level. The more you can win, the higher you advance up the ladder. Contact Jack Hessler to get more information and join.
Titan Pickleball Machine Sessions
Looking for a convenient way to practice your pickleball skills? Join us for scheduled sessions with our new Titan pickleball machine. The machine can deliver a variety of shots at different speeds, heights, and directions, allowing you to work on specific skills or experience the challenge of reacting to changing shots.
Club volunteers will set up, program, and operate the machine, so participants do not need to know how to use it. Just bring your paddle, come to the court at one of the posted session times, and be ready to practice. Check your club email for latest schedules.
Tournaments
The Club sponsors two in-house tournaments and a third competition pitting Club members against other local Erickson communities’ pickleball teams. Riderwood won the Mid-Atlantic Erickson trophy in both 2022 and 2023. We hope to win it back this year! Information on tournaments will be announced through the club members email list.
Join the Pickleball Club
For a new member application and more information on joining the Riderwood Pickleball club please click HERE or click the pickleball to the left. Once you join you will be added to the club e-mail list that will keep you posted on all club activites.
Officers
- Cynnie Hood, President
- Tim Twomey, Vice President
- Edie Walters, Secretary
- Jim Walters, Treasurer
Please check MyErickson for direct contact information or email to address below.
Contact Us
For more information on any of the above or if you have any other questions please contact us at Pickleball@RiderwoodLife.com.
Videos
2025 Riderwood/Erickson Tournament
All About Riderwood Pickleball (August 2025)!
Additional Information
Visit the USA Pickleball Association to find out more about the game including beginners tutorials, playing tips, rules etc.
Updated 2/17/2026-rtt