Club Information
About Us
Who We Are
Our Mission: To grow the game of pickleball across Gloucestershire.
Our Community: Players of all ages, from total beginners to match-ready competitors.
Our Vibe: Inclusive, social, active, and welcoming.
What We Do
Social Play: Weekly club sessions for casual rallies and fun matches.
Coaching: Beginner-friendly "Intro to Pickleball" and clinics.
Local Leagues: Competitive matches at Oxstalls Sports Park.
Why Play With Us?
Easy to Learn: Simple rules mean you can start playing on day one.
Good for Health: A fantastic, low-impact workout gentle on joints.
Great Friends: Meet local people who share a passion for sport.
Meet The Team
Ian Walkley
Chairman & Head CoachMad about Pickleball!
Born and bred in Gloucestershire, I was introduced to pickleball by friends in October 2023. I started playing at Bristol Pickleball Club and quickly joined Thornbury, Swindon and Gloucester pickleball clubs so that I could play as much as possible. I completed my pickleball instructor’s course on 7 December 2024, which helped me run a few starter sessions at Stroud Leisure Centre. That experience gave me the confidence to take on the role of County Representative for Pickleball England in February 2025, with responsibility for helping to develop the game across Gloucestershire. Since then, I have qualified as a Level 1 coach, run a couple of tournaments, started the Gloucestershire Pickleball League, and become Chairman of Pickleball Gloucestershire — a great honour. I could not have done any of this without the support of my family and the Pickleball Gloucestershire team. Thank you all for your help.
Rachael Merrett
Club TreasurerRachael Merrett, Financial Director for YETI Europe, been playing pickle since Dec 2023.
Founding member of Gloster Bombers club. Huge Gloucester Rugby fan. Married to coach Snoz Merrett.
Jen Walkley
Club Secretary & Tournament CoordinatorEverything Else!!!
James Hemming
Committee MemberI've played pickleball for around 2½ years at David Lloyd Gloucester, where I set up the initial community club matches. I joined the Pickleball Gloucestershire committee to help coordinate county-wide club operations and ensure our local player pathways continue to expand.
Jo Button
Committee MemberFell in love with the sport in 2024 at Winchcombe Pickleball. Thank you. Helped bring Coached Pickleball sessions to Leisure@ Cheltenham in 2026. Transitioned from enthusiastic player to committee member, committed to expanding playing opportunities and supporting players across the county