Club Bulletin
Sep 01, 2023
SPORTIME Randall's Island Pickleball FAQ
Question: Do I have to be a SPORTIME member to play?
Answer: While you need to be a tennis or pickleball member to participate in instructional and league programs, you do not need to be a member to reserve court-time or to participate in open play sessions and events. SPORTIME members receive advanced reservation privileges, reciprocity at other SPORTIME Pickleball locations, and a variety of other benefits.
Question: If I am already a SPORTIME tennis member do I need a Pickleball membership?
Answer: No. If you are currently a SPORTIME tennis member, you are entitled to all Pickleball benefits and privileges at any of our SPORTIME Pickleball locations.
Question: Do I have to pay for court-time with my membership?
Answer: Yes, but SPORTIME members may take advantage of 7-day advanced reservation privileges while non-members may reserve court-time up to 3 days in advance.
Question: Can I reserve a court in advance?
Answer: Yes. Members and non-members may reserve courts in advance. SPORTIME Members may reserve courts up 7 days in advance, while Non-Members may do so up to 3 days in advance. Courts are always subject to availability, and we recommend that reservations be made online.
Question: How many pickleball courts does SPORTIME Randall’s Island have?
Answer: We have 12 blended courts on professional sized, hard tennis courts, with permanent court-lines and professional nets.
Question: Are the courts outside or inside?
Answer: Our courts are indoors for the cold weather season, and are contained in an air-structure.
Question: What is the surface of the pickleball courts?
Answer: They are Laykold, hard surface courts, the surface used by the U.S. Open.
Questions: Do I need to bring my own equipment? What if I do not own a paddle?
Answer: Players should bring their own paddles and balls. However, we do have "Demo" paddles available for players to try, to determine which paddle to purchase, or for those who have forgotten their paddles. Our pro shop offers a variety of great paddles, balls and accessories for purchase.
Question: Do I have to wear tennis/court shoes?
Answer: You must wear court shoes designed for hard surface courts. No running shoes, or shoes with black soles, are permitted.
Question: What is an open play session?
Answer: Open Play is an organized session, scheduled at various times each week, to which players can show up without a partner. Players rotate in and out to mix/match with others of similar skill levels, creating a fun and dynamic environment, and giving them the opportunity to meet other players and enjoy the competitive, yet social aspects of the game. Registration is required for Open Play sessions.
Question: What if I do not know my level of play?
Answer: Our Pickleball Director, or one of our coaches, can help you to determine your general level by engaging in a conversation with you about your pickleball play experience, but for more specificity and accuracy, we encourage you to schedule a time to hit with our Pickleball Director or one of our coaches, or to join an Open Play session. Interested in finding out more? Click here to submit a Player Profile and we’ll contact you.
Question: How do I get to Randall’s Island?
Answer: By MTA bus (M35), bike, footbridge or car.
Question: Is there parking at SPORTIME? What if the parking lots are full?
Answer: Yes. The large parking lot across from the entrance to the Tennis Center driveway, Parking Lot E, is designated for SPORTIME pickleball players. From there, it's just a short walk to the tennis center entrance.
Question: Is there food and drink on site?
Answer: Yes, we have a cafe that offers hot and cold food, snacks and beverages for sale.
Question: Can I hold a private event there?
Answer: Yes, in addition to our 12 pickleball courts, we have off-court areas adjacent to the courts in the air-structure, and a variety of other, beautiful off-court facilities to host large and small pickleball and tennis events. Please contact us for options and pricing.