A Hub for Connection, Competition & Community in Newport County

Newport Pickleball Club (NPC) opened its doors in early 2025 and has quickly become Rhode Island’s premier indoor pickleball destination. Housed in the former Island Cinemas location in Middletown, NPC offers 11 professional-grade indoor courts, vibrant social spaces, and a growing calendar of events designed to connect people through the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.

According to their website, “Newport Pickleball was born out of a love for community and the sport of pickleball.”

The facility blends high-level play with hospitality and connection. In addition to world-class courts, NPC features multiple lounges and viewing areas, a private events suite with its own court and bar, and a full-service restaurant—The Kitchen Table—serving inventive lunch and dinner options with a cocktail menu to match.

A Place for Every Player

NPC is built around inclusivity and engagement. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, there’s a way to play. Weekday evening leagues are organized by skill level, and open play offers a drop-in format for those looking to meet new people and jump into a match. Clinics and private lessons are offered for newer players looking to build their skills, while more advanced players can find challenge in competitive play and tournaments.

The club also embraces creativity in its programming, hosting glow-in-the-dark pickleball nights, seasonal tournaments, and themed social events throughout the year. Their approach blends fitness, fun, and friendship—making it much more than just a sports facility.

Co-founder John Theberge describes NPC’s culture as “energetic, inclusive, and community-first.”

“Whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned competitor, the environment is welcoming, social and driven by a shared love of the game. We’ve worked hard to create a space that blends high-level play with hospitality and connection—our members come to play, but they also come to belong.”

Why Newport?

Originally from the Boston area, John and his family chose to relocate to Aquidneck Island to lay down both personal and professional roots. I asked what drew him to Newport County specifically.

“Newport County offers a unique combination of community, lifestyle and opportunity that you don’t often find in one place… We saw a gap in the market for a high-quality, purpose-built indoor facility, and the community response so far has confirmed that Newport was the right place to invest in and grow with.”

NPC fills that gap in a big way—appealing to both locals and visitors who value wellness, social engagement, and active living.

Membership or Drop-In…You Choose

One of the best parts about Newport Pickleball Club is that you don’t have to be a member to enjoy it. Courts can be reserved without a membership, and The Kitchen Table is open to all.

That said, membership comes with some great perks. Kassie VanDenburgh, Director of Membership, explained the vision behind it:

“We have many great ways to play pickleball at NPC! Being a member at Newport Pickleball Club means more than just access—it’s about joining a vibrant and active pickleball community.”

Membership options range from flexible individual and senior plans to a Founder’s Membership, which includes unlimited court time and open play, access to lessons and clinics, ball machine rentals, and more.

Connecting Through Play

The creative team at NPC excels at creating opportunities for connection, from themed tournaments (like their NCAA Final Four Challenge) to community events such as a Mother’s Day brunch and a Father’s Day grill giveaway. This summer, they’re also launching kids’ camps to introduce younger players to the sport in a fun and inclusive environment.

According to their website, “Our facility isn’t just about pickleball—it’s about fostering connections. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes, a seasoned competitor playing in a league, or a family enjoying a casual game, Newport Pickleball is a space where everyone feels welcome.”

We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we’ve chosen Newport Pickleball Club as our June “Local Biz Love” feature—because like Homes By Connect, they are about more than just what they do. They’re about creating connections in a place where people feel they belong.

Visit or Contact Newport Pickleball Club

866 West Main Road, Middletown, RI
Contact: info@newportpickleball.com | 401-324-5672
www.newportpickleball.com

Katy Donovan is the Broker/Owner of Homes By Connect and The Donovan Group in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.