The short
answers.
Memberships, open play, lessons, events, food and drink, visiting the facility. If your question isn't here, email us — we answer everything within one business day.
Getting Started
Do I need to be a member to play?
No. Drop in for a $16 session — no membership required, no commitment. Reserve a court up to five days out.
I've never played. Where do I start?
Our Step Into the Kitchen beginner series introduces the game — from dinks to serves, keeping score, and court positioning. No experience needed. Paddles provided. See the lessons page.
Do you have paddles to use?
Yes. House paddles and demo paddles are available at no additional cost — including a rotating set of demos from top brands at the counter.
What should I wear?
Court-appropriate athletic shoes (non-marking soles) and workout clothes. We sell apparel and demo paddles in the pro shop if you need anything.
Memberships
What's the initiation fee?
Monthly plans include a one-time $50 initiation fee. Drop-in play has no initiation fee or commitment.
Can I cancel my membership?
Monthly plans are a 12-month commitment (4 months for Student) and renew each year. Cancellation is available with 30 days' notice for a move, and membership pauses are available for injury.
Do you offer family plans?
Yes. Family Platinum is $259/month and Family Gold is $159/month (two members of the same household; add $25/month per child under 18). Contact us for more information about family benefits.
What counts as off-peak?
Off-peak hours are Monday to Friday, noon to 4 PM. Non-member court rentals are discounted during this window.
Can I switch tiers?
Any time. Upgrades take effect immediately. Downgrades take effect at your next billing cycle.
Open Play & Lessons
How do you handle skill levels?
Open play is organized by skill rating so you're playing at your level, with All-Level sessions for mixed skill. Join the session that matches your rating.
What is DUPR?
DUPR stands for Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating. It's the global, official rating system and technology platform used to evaluate and rank pickleball players. It works like a golf handicap, giving every player a single, up-to-date number that reflects their skill level. We use DUPR as our rating standard and offer certified DUPR Evaluations — contact the front desk to arrange an assessment.
How do I book a private lesson?
Email Director@cvillesmash.com with your rating, goals, and availability. Privates are scheduled week by week.
When do leagues run?
Seasonal leagues run eight weeks each — spring, summer, fall, winter — with teams by skill level. Registration opens before each season.
Visiting & Facility
Where are you located?
387 Hillsdale Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901 — inside Seminole Square Shopping Center. Important: Seminole Square, not Seminole Trail (different plaza).
What are your hours?
Mon–Sat 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Sunday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. The Corner Café runs during facility hours — call the front desk for current availability.
Is parking free?
Yes. Plenty of free surface parking in the shopping center directly in front of the facility.
Is the facility accessible?
Yes. All nine courts are on one level. Accessible restrooms and seating. Let the front desk know if you need anything specific.
Events & Food
Can I host a private event here?
Yes — we have event space for private and corporate gatherings. Capacity and configuration vary. See the events page or email us to inquire.
Is the food and bar service open to non-members?
Yes. The Corner Café is open to anyone in the facility during open hours.
Can I bring my own food?
Outside food generally isn't permitted, but celebration cakes are fine with a call-ahead. Alcohol must be served by our bar.