OPEN PLAY

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR OPEN PLAY?

Registering is simple! Follow the steps below to set up your account and start playing!

Create a free account HERE with Court Reserve
Download the Court Reserve app
Once you have set up your account you will be asked to add an organization. Type in 'Smash Dink' and add us as an organization.
Once you have done that you will be directed to the Smash Dink homepage in Court Reserve.
From there you can select 'Events' and then 'All Events' to see what's on and register for Open Play sessions.
If you are looking for a specific skill level, you can also find Open Play sessions by selecting the 'Events' option then 'Categories'. There you will see a list of Open Play events categorized by skill level.
Once you press 'Register' you're all set! You will get a confirmation via text or email. When you arrive at Smash Dink for your event, you must check in at the front desk.
Please read our cancelation policy at the bottom of this page.

Advanced 4.0+ open play REQUIREMENTS

Under our new 2025 protocols, players who wish to register for Advanced 4.0+ Open Play sessions will require approval before registration is confirmed. Players must have a DUPR score of 4.0 or above or complete a free 20 minute assessment with one of our instructors to determine their eligibility. Approval is not guaranteed! Smash Dink has implemented these measures to maintain the integrity of skill levels and ensure that everyone enjoys fair and competitive games suited to their ability. Assessments can be scheduled on Tuesdays and Saturday afternoons. Please email smashdinkla@gmail.com for available time slots.

Having a 4.0 DUPR rating does not guarantee continued participation in advanced open-play sessions. You must consistently demonstrate the required skill level, and if our instructors determine that your play falls below the standard, you may be removed to maintain the session's competitive integrity

what is open play?

OPEN PLAY IS NOT A PRIVATE COURT RENTAL. Open Play pickleball is a casual drop-in format where players rotate partners and opponents for fun, social games. Some experience is required to ensure competitive, fast-paced play and to maintain the flow of games for all participants. If you have never played Pickleball before, we recommend taking one of our beginner classes before diving into Open Play!

These sessions often have more registrants available than court space, meaning some players will sit out during each round, but the wait will typically be no longer than 15 minutes. We follow the '4 on 4 off': once a game ends, all players leave the court and rejoin the line to play, mixing in with others. If you prefer to play with the same group throughout the session, Open Play may not be the best fit. We suggest reserving a court instead, as Open Play involves rotating and mixing with everyone present.

OPEN PLAY SOCIALS

Open Play Socials at Smash Dink offer a fun, casual, and welcoming environment where pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels can come together to unwind, connect, and enjoy the game they love. These sessions are designed to be less competitive and more about fostering community, building friendships, and simply having a good time on the court.

REGISTRATION LIMIt

To maintain a smooth and enjoyable experience, we cap the number of participants for Open Play, aiming for minimal wait times of about 15 minutes between games. During peak hours, spots fill up quickly, so we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your place and avoid disappointment.

levels of play

Balanced games are more fun for everyone! That's why Smash Dink offers different levels of Open Play, ensuring you're matched with players at a similar skill level for more competitive and enjoyable games. For Open Play, skill levels are self-assessed; we trust you to choose the level that best suits your abilities. Your rating will only be as good as your honesty and accuracy in your self-assessment.

PLEASE NOTE: For Open Play sessions with multiple skill levels running simultaneously, we require players to stay on the courts assigned to the skill level group they registered for.

Smash Dink currently offers:

2.0 - 3.0 Beginner open play

Designed for players who are relatively new to pickleball or still developing their skills. This level focuses on learning the fundamentals, such as serving, basic positioning, and consistency. While the games are friendly and supportive, they provide a great opportunity to practice techniques and improve court awareness in a low-pressure environment. Ideal for those still mastering the basics and looking to gain more confidence on the court.

3.0 - 3.5 intermediate open play

For players who have a solid understanding of the game and are working on refining their skills. Players at this level can consistently rally, serve, and return shots with control. They are beginning to focus on strategies like positioning, shot selection, and placement. This level offers a competitive environment where players can challenge themselves and continue improving their overall game. Ideal for those looking to elevate their pickleball experience.

3.5 - 4.0 Advanced intermediate open play

For players with a ranking of 3.5 and above. Players should have strong shot consistency, strategic awareness, and the ability to execute advanced techniques like drops, dinks, and controlled drives. Geared towards players who are confident in their abilities and ready for fast-paced, strategic matches and competitive play.

4.0+ advanced open play - APPROVAL REQUIRED

Under our new 2025 protocols, players who wish to register for Advanced 4.0+ Open Play sessions will require approval before registration is confirmed. Players must have a DUPR score of 4.0 or above or complete a free 15 - 20 minute assessment with one of our instructors to determine their eligibility. Approval is not guaranteed! Smash Dink has implemented these measures to maintain the integrity of skill levels and ensure that everyone enjoys fair and competitive games suited to their ability. Assessments can be scheduled on Tuesday and Saturday afternoons. Please email smashdinkla@gmail.com for available time slots.

This session is geared toward experienced competitors with refined techniques and a strong command of the game. Matches are fast-paced and competitive, highlighting advanced skills and strategic play.

Do you take walk-ins?

Yes! But please note that walk-in spots for Open Play sessions are not guaranteed, especially during peak times (evenings and weekends) when sessions often reach capacity and may have waitlists. To ensure you don't miss out, we highly recommend reserving your spot in advance through the Court Reserve app. The app gives you access to our full events calendar and allows you to see how many players have registered. If you notice a session filling up quickly and want to play, be sure to register early to secure your spot and avoid unnecessary travel.

smash dink cancelation policy

Smash Dink requires at least 12 hours' notice for a full refund and 3 - 12 hours' notice for account credit. Cancelations made with less than 3 hours' notice will result in fee forfeiture. In a 30-day period, two no-shows OR cancelations made less than 3 hours before an event will incur a $15 fee for Unlimited Open Play pass holders. For sold-out Open Play sessions with a waitlist, players will have a 30-minute check in window, just give us a heads-up via email at smashdinkla@gmail.com. Open Play events require a minimum of 4 people registered for the event to run. If fewer than 4 people are registered, the event will auto-cancel 2 hours prior.

THE PLACE TO PLAY
IN (DOORS) LA

At Smash Dink, community means more than coming together—it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered. When we embrace inclusivity, we unite, uplift, and transform our diversity into strength.