Player Development Pathway
Every stage of your game.
From learning the game for the first time to DUPR-rated competition — a pathway designed to help you learn, practise, improve, compete, and connect at your own pace.
Saturdays & Sundays · 10–11am
Start here · It's on us
Free Learn to Play, every weekend
Mentone's free, coach-led intro for complete beginners — learn the basics, hit some balls, and play your first games. Just turn up, we'll handle the rest.
- No experience needed
- No gear needed — paddles provided
- No partner needed — bring a friend
The Pathway
Learn. Practise. Compete.
A clear journey from your first session to DUPR-rated competition. It's a guide, not a rule — join at the stage that matches your ability, confidence, and goals.
Tap any stage to jump to the details below.
Intro to Pickleball
Learn the Game
Perfect for players completely new to pickleball. Introduces the basic rules, scoring, techniques, and court positioning you need to start playing.
Suitable for
- •First-time players
- •Players with little or no experience
- •Anyone wanting a simple introduction before regular sessions
What you'll learn
- Basic rules and scoring
- Serving and returning
- Dinking and volleys
- Court positioning
- Pickleball etiquette
Next step: Beginner Program
Book Free Learn to PlayBeginner Program
Build Your Foundations
Helps new players develop the essential skills needed to play games confidently.
Suitable for
- •Completed Intro to Pickleball
- •New players wanting structured learning
- •Players who want to understand the game before social play
Focus areas
- Basic strokes
- Consistency
- Movement and positioning
- Scoring and game management
- Introduction to doubles play
Next step: Beginner Social
Beginner Social
Build Confidence Through Play
For players who understand the basic rules and are ready for more match experience. A self-organised social session — organise games, keep score, and rotate with others.
Suitable for
- •Completed a beginner program or equivalent
- •Understand basic rules and scoring
- •Can serve, return, and rally
- •Looking to build confidence in social games
Included
- Social court time
- Paddles and balls available
- Player rotation guidance
- Friendly, supportive environment
Next step: Intermediate Social
Intermediate Social
Develop Your Game
For players comfortable with the fundamentals who want faster, more consistent, more competitive games. Still social, but you manage scoring, rotations, and gameplay independently.
Suitable for
- •Regular match-play experience
- •Understand rules, scoring, and positioning
- •Can sustain rallies consistently
- •Ready for faster-paced social games
What to expect
- Competitive but friendly games
- Stronger rallies
- Improved tactical awareness
- Partner and opponent rotation
- A higher playing standard
Next step: Advanced Social or DUPR Match Play
Book the AcademyAdvanced Social
Challenge Yourself
For experienced players seeking high-quality competitive social games — strong fundamentals, court awareness, and the confidence to compete with experienced players.
Suitable for
- •Experienced social or competitive players
- •Strong consistency and shot control
- •Understand strategy and partner communication
- •Seeking a higher standard of play
What to expect
- Competitive games
- Faster pace
- Stronger opponents
- Strategic match play
- High-quality social competition
Next step: DUPR Match Play, Ladder League, or Tournaments
Book the AcademyDUPR Match Play
Track Your Progress
The bridge between social play and competitive pickleball — for players who want to establish or improve their DUPR rating through organised, score-recorded matches.
Suitable for
- •Intermediate and advanced players
- •Have or want a DUPR account
- •Interested in tracking improvement
- •Preparing for leagues or tournaments
Format
- Organised match play
- Matched by similar ability where possible
- Scores recorded for DUPR submission
- Multiple games per session
- Competitive but respectful
Next step: P4R Ladder League
P4R Ladder League
Structured Competition
Regular competition for players who want a more structured experience. Compete over a season, with results feeding rankings, division movement, and ongoing development.
Suitable for
- •Enjoy regular competition
- •DUPR experience
- •Intermediate to advanced players
- •Preparing for tournaments
Features
- Season-based competition
- Divisions based on level
- Promotion and relegation where possible
- Leaderboards and rankings
- DUPR-supported results where applicable
Next step: P4R Championships or external tournaments
P4R Championships
Compete and Represent
Test yourself in a tournament-style environment, with divisions so you compete against others of a similar level.
Possible divisions
- •Beginner Division
- •Intermediate Division
- •Advanced Division
- •Open Division
Features
- Tournament-style matches
- Medals or prizes
- Competitive atmosphere
- DUPR submission where applicable
- Community event experience
Next step: Performance Pathway
Performance Pathway
For Serious Competitive Players
For committed players who want to train, compete, and prepare for higher-level tournaments. Invitation- or application-based depending on level and availability.
Suitable for
- •Tournament players
- •High-level DUPR players
- •Seeking advanced match preparation
- •Committed to long-term improvement
Focus areas
- Advanced strategy
- Match preparation
- Partner communication
- Tournament readiness
- Competitive mindset
Not sure where to start?
We'll point you to the right session.
New to pickleball? Start with Intro to Pickleball or the Beginner Program. Already have experience? Join the session that matches your confidence and standard — and if you're unsure, our team will help you find the best fit.
Ready to Play for Real?
Book a court, join a session, or come check out the venue.