Marvel Stadium ditches footy for pickleball in September social sports takeover
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03.09.2025

Marvel Stadium ditches footy for pickleball in September social sports takeover

Words by staff writer

Stadium Sports launches at Marvel Stadium with pickleball courts and Mountain Goat sponsorship.

Marvel Stadium is swapping footy boots for pickleball paddles this September. Stadium Sports transforms the iconic venue into Melbourne’s newest social sports destination, complete with three full-size courts and all the gear you need to get your game on.

Running for three weeks from 17 September, Stadium Sports offers something different from your usual stadium experience. Instead of watching elite athletes from the stands, punters can actually get active themselves in the same space where AFL legends have made history. Mountain Goat is backing the initiative, bringing their Melbourne-brewed beers to fuel the action.

Stadium Smash Pickleball takes centre stage at Stadium Square Gate 2/3, where players of all skill levels can enjoy one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports. Each court comes with scoreboards and premium equipment included in the hire fee, so you can rock up empty-handed and still serve up some serious competition.

Stadium Sports

  • Where: Marvel Stadium, Stadium Square Gate 2/3, Docklands
  • When: 17 September – 5 October
  • Weekdays: 6pm – 9pm (Monday to Friday)
  • Weekends: 12pm – 9pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

 

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Between matches, players can hang out at the Stadium Sports Clubhouse, a premium social space where you can grab drinks, watch the AFL finals on big screens, and soak up the atmosphere. Food options include Friends of Fire and The Wine Room, Marvel Stadium’s existing hospitality offerings.

Former AFL player Dylan Buckley, who notched up 10 games and five goals at the venue, is backing the initiative as an ambassador. Stadium Sports builds on Marvel Stadium’s push to activate the venue year-round, following the successful launch of Stadium Golf in 2023. More sports are expected to be announced as part of the programme, including Australian football activities.

Access to the clubhouse and Stadium Square area comes free of charge, making it an affordable way to experience the venue even if you’re not booking a court. Under-18s are welcome when accompanied by responsible adults.

For more information, head here.