About Us

Welcome to the Park Ridge Pickleball Club—your home for fun, friendly, and fast-paced play in the heart of Park Ridge, Illinois.

What started as a small group of about 40 passionate players has quickly grown into a thriving community of over 300 members. From humble beginnings with only a few shared courts, we now play across 17 dedicated courts located at Northeast Park, Woodland Park, and South Park to keep up with our expanding pickleball community!

We're more than just a group of people who love pickleball—we're a community. Our club is run by a dedicated volunteer board that helps keep everything running smoothly, from tech support to tournaments, training, and social events.

Meet Our Board

Our board members each bring their unique talents and energy to the club. Here’s who’s helping shape your pickleball experience in Park Ridge:

  • Robert Rhine – President
    Leads the charge and keeps the club on track with big-picture planning and community engagement.

  • Tom Usher – Vice President & Treasurer
    Keeps an eye on the numbers while supporting leadership initiatives across the board.

  • Wendell Labern – Secretary
    Takes notes, tracks club decisions, and keeps us organized and informed.

  • Mary Szyjka – Marketing Director
    Spreads the word, captures the action, and keeps our online presence fun and informative.

  • Shelley Schwartz – Social Director
    The heart of our community events, from potlucks to pickleball parties.

  • Jeff Katz – Technology Director
    The brains behind our systems, websites, and all things digital.

  • Pam Jones-Gibson – Training Director
    Organizes clinics and helps newcomers and regulars alike improve their skills.

(Photos of each board member coming soon!)

Where We Play

When the weather is good, there’s always a court waiting for you. People play outside from early morning to sundown. Mornings are busiest, and later in the afternoon (4:00 pm to 7:00 pm) is the second busiest time, but there are often players there all day long. If the courts are full, we rack up and the next foursome goes on when a game ends.

Spring & Summer – Outdoor Play

  • Northeast Park – A core hub of activity with six courts for open play and events.

  • Woodland Park – Another option with six courts and a welcoming vibe for casual and competitive games.

  • South Park – Our newest expansion, which will have four lighted courts soon for evening play.

Fall & Winter – Indoor Options

  • Centennial Fitness Center – Indoor play in partnership with PRPC. A great option from Autumn through Spring.

  • Other Local Indoor Clubs:

    • Picklr – Pay-to-play facility offering premium indoor courts.

    • Ace Pickleball – Another great option for year-round indoor play nearby.

Come Play With Us

Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned competitor, the Park Ridge Pickleball Club offers a welcoming space for everyone. Come join us —there’s always someone to hit the courts with.

Together, we’re growing the game, one rally at a time.

Join PRPC