Club Spotlight - Northern Stars Pickleball Club

As part of our series of club spotlights, Pickleball Australia reached out to the Northern Stars Pickleball Club to learn more about their community in South Australia.

Written by Secretary Jess Soppitt

How did your club get started, and what makes it special in your community?

Our club was born out of pickleball’s rapid growth in South Australia and a simple idea to do things a little differently. 

At our initial venues, Blair Athol and Lightsview, we saw a growing community of players wanting more variety, flexibility, and input into how sessions were run. So we built a club that listens and adapts. 

What makes us special is our player-first approach. Our programs are shaped by our community, we champion inclusivity, and we bring together a diverse membership (from ages 10 to 89) while still building skills and offering both social and competitive offerings.

Less than 12 months in, we’ve become the largest club in South Australia - proof that a community-led approach works. Which is in the true spirit of Pickleball!

What does pickleball mean to your members, and how has your club made a positive impact locally?

For our members, pickleball is more than a sport - it’s a social and accessible way to stay active and connected. 

It’s easy to learn, highly social, and fits around people’s lives - whether they’re dropping in for fun or planning their week around it. 

The real impact is in the stories we hear. Members have found connection, confidence, and in some cases, a renewed sense of purpose. That’s what drives us to keep growing and reaching more people!

What’s been a standout moment or achievement for your club so far?

Click here to learn more about the Northern Stars Pickleball Club