BY CHRIS BEAUMONT, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
STOURBRIDGE – The West Midlands has strengthened its position on the UK pickleball map with the official opening of Courtside Pickleball on Saturday, 17 January 2026. As the region’s second dedicated pickleball facility, the new centre promises to be a vital hub for competition, training, and community engagement.
Transforming Industrial Heritage
Located in a repurposed factory unit, the new centre pays homage to Stourbridge’s industrial past while looking toward a modern sporting future. Mayor and Councillor Pete Lee, who attended the opening alongside other local dignitaries, remarked on this transformation: “From world-famous glassmaking to becoming a centre for Pickleball, Stourbridge is embracing innovation and community spirit in equal measure”.
The facility is equipped with eight state-of-the-art courts, a café, and designated community spaces. It has been designed with accessibility in mind, welcoming players of all ages and abilities.
A Vision of Community and Connection
For co-founders Boon and Josh Yeng, the project was born from a passion for the sport that began with a chance encounter in Malaysia. During the opening celebration, the founders emphasised that Courtside is intended to be “more than just a place to play pickleball”.
Addressing the guests, they described the venue as “a space for community, for connection, and for everyone, from toddlers to adaptive athletes, to enjoy the sport together”.
A Driving Force for the Region
The significance of the launch was underscored by the presence of Pickleball England representatives. Karen Mitchell, Chair and CEO, held the new national board’s first meeting on-site, recognising the centre’s potential to connect local clubs and foster player development.
Michael de Groot, West Midlands Regional Director, highlighted the strategic importance of the new venue. He noted that Courtside will play a crucial role in hosting leagues, leader certification sessions, and youth programs, helping to position the West Midlands as a “driving force for Pickleball in England”.
Celebrating with a Cause
The official opening festivities concluded with an exhibition match, launching this new chapter for the sport in the region. In the spirit of community support, the event also featured social pickleball sessions that raised funds for the Mary Stevens Hospice.
If you enjoyed this article, you can download the whole beautifully designed magazine here.
Chris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at all levels of pickleball. Chris is also an avid player, currently struggling to make the breakthrough from 4.0 to 4.5.