Since June of 2021, Two Rivers Pickleball Club in Big Fork, Montana, has welcomed pickleball players to play on its four indoor and six outdoor courts scenically nestled in “The Last Best Place”. With over 1,800 members affiliated with the club, the northwest Montana facility prides itself on inclusion and a welcoming environment, highlighted by a world-class onboarding process for new members.
Club Founder Jim Lafferty says one of the keys to member retention and encouraging new members to continue playing is the free, new-member Academy.
“We have welcomed over 750 new players through Academy, and 95% of those players have never held a paddle before,” Jim says. “After Academy, players feel more confident in their abilities and are ready for more!”
Academy is open to all members 13+ without pickleball experience. Once a month for two evenings from 6:30 – 9:00 PM. Two Rivers welcomes 16-20 players coached by four to five volunteers to create confidence, reduce intimidation, and give members the foundation to enjoy pickleball quickly. Attending Academy isn’t a requirement, yet Jim says classes fill most months.
Jim says Academy is a great introduction to pickleball and Two Rivers, as it provides a feel for the club’s personality and helps new members connect with playing partners.
“Players who attend Academy together essentially have a natural social group of players to come back during open play or sign up for clinics together,” says Jim. “It speeds up the sense of belonging everyone looks for when joining a new club or starting a new hobby.”
Jim adds something else that makes the free clinics special is all the certified and experienced coaches who lead Academy volunteer their time out of a passion for the sport and desire to spread that passion to others. He says the new players are aware that coaches are there voluntarily and it sets a great atmosphere from the get-go.
“We consider this a ‘gift’ to new members, and are happy to offer this monthly,” Jim says.
While Academy is limited to members, becoming a member is incredibly easy; simply join for free through the CourtReserve app. Two Rivers follows a “pay as you play” model to keep the commitment low for new members and accessible for all. The club is open 5:00 AM to midnight and offers access when unstaffed through the app. Providing loaner paddles and unlimited balls, all players need is a pair of court shoes to enjoy the facility.
Two Rivers has a plethora of offerings that keep all levels of players engaged and involved. Seven certified pros are on staff and available to teach clinics that focus on a range of skills, including the transition game, net play and situational strategy.
Jim says their club focus on fun and connection along with play has allowed members to grow as players and as friends.
“Two Rivers has spurred many friendships, romances and even marriages,” Jim says. “Members have even told me joining the club has improved and even lengthened their lives as they navigate a health issue or personal hardship. And that is what we’re really all about.”
The setting of the club and the facilities are just as special as the people inside. Six outdoor courts with incredible mountain views are packed during the summer with the indoor courts perfect for the winter months. When weather allows, hydraulic aircraft-hanger style doors open for all players to enjoy the mountain views. With a 2,000 sq. ft. outdoor terrace, member lounge, bar and even physical therapy on-site, Two Rivers provides an experience like no other.
Jim is happy to share the Academy as he himself was inspired by another club to hold such a program. Even with out mountain views, any club owner can encourage new members to get involved with the game and each other through offering a free skills class to learn the basics and get more comfortable with the sport. Everyone walks in with the idea to become a pickleball player, a little help will help them fulfill that dream and encourage members for a lifetime.
