Harlem Pickleball Association
Jackie Robinson Park · Harlem
Community Information:
Jackie Robinson Park
About
Harlem Pickleball Association (HPA) exists to make pickleball accessible for all New Yorkers, starting at the courts at Jackie Robinson Park on Bradhurst Avenue and West 152nd Street. With two outdoor courts set against one of Upper Manhattan’s most storied green spaces, HPA’s goal is simple: make pickleball accessible to Harlem residents of every age and background, and build a community around it that lasts.
Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time, joining an open play session, or looking to sharpen your game with other local competitors, HPA keeps the atmosphere safe and welcoming, with music playing and a laid-back vibe that makes every visit feel easy. And the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down — night play keeps the courts buzzing well after dark. Beyond the everyday games, HPA runs tournaments, kids’ clinics, barbeques, and all kinds of social events that turn the courts into more than just a place to play.
None of it happens without the community itself: nets, paddles, and the upkeep of the courts are generously provided and maintained by the players who show up day after day. HPA is a tight-knit crew rooted in Harlem, but the doors are wide open to players from every borough — anyone in NYC looking for good games and good people will find a home at Jackie Robinson Park. From first-timers learning the ropes to dedicated competitors, everyone gets a warm welcome.
Community Rules
Jackie Robinson Park Pickleball Courts
Community Code of Conduct
Respect the Game · Respect the Players · Build Community
1. Sportsmanship
- Welcome all players and help create an inclusive community.
- Treat everyone with courtesy and respect.
- No profanity, harassment, paddle throwing, or unsportsmanlike conduct.
- Tap paddles after each game.
- Coach only when asked.
2. Fair Play
- Call the score before every serve.
- Make honest line calls and give opponents the benefit of the doubt.
- Only call balls on your side of the net.
- When in doubt, replay the point.
3. Safety
- Call “BALL ON!” if a ball enters your court.
- Never run onto an active court.
- Wait until play stops before crossing behind a court.
- Keep bags, chairs, and equipment off the playing surface.
- Wear non-marking athletic shoes.
4. Paddle Queue & Court Rotation
One Player · One Paddle · One Spot
- No paddle sleeves, bags, towels, or other items may reserve a place in line.
- Do not move or reserve multiple paddles.
- Follow the paddle queue.
- Warm up for 5 minutes or less when others are waiting.
- Be ready when your turn is called or your place may be forfeited.
- Exit the court promptly after your game.
- The paddle rotation system depends on honesty, fairness, and respect.
5. Respect the Park & Community
- Share the courts—everyone deserves an opportunity to play.
- Dispose of your own trash and recycling.
- Leave the courts cleaner than you found them.
- Respect volunteers, neighbors, and NYC Parks staff.
Be Respectful · Be Inclusive · Be Safe · Play Fair · Have Fun
These guidelines help ensure a safe, fair, and welcoming environment for everyone. Repeated violations or unsportsmanlike conduct may result in removal from organized play or loss of court privileges in accordance with NYC Parks regulations and community policies.
Remember: these are public courts. Share the courts. Respect the community. Leave the park better than you found it.
Posted by the Harlem Pickleball Association in partnership with Team Unity and NYC Parks.
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