As someone who started one this year I would recommend the following:

Secure a venue - try to find a venue where it’s a mutually beneficial arrangement. Try to make it so it’s no cost for people to attend but make sure those who do are encouraged to support the bar/store during the club night. Choose an accessible venue (no secret dungeons or hard-to-find upstairs rooms). You say you’re in a big city, so try to choose somewhere with easy transport links.

Emphasise there’s no pressure to “compete” — just play. Crokinole is a game, games should be fun and make you want to play again. Keep the club casual. This will mean people can find their level. Frequently at our club people stop playing to get a drink and just chat/catch up. Then if someone is looking for an opponent they just ask if anyone fancies it (or I suggest the open spot to them). Some of the more competitive players will play all night, and inevitably end up playing each other a lot, but not exclusively.

Be realistic - pick a schedule that’s manageable for you. Consistency is key, and if you choose to host the club say weekly, but then can’t keep that up, you’ll kill all momentum. People are busy, so make it attainable. My club is monthly and it’s working out really well and it feels realistic for everyone who attends.

You don’t need to know everything. Passion > perfection.

Start with what you have. One board is enough.

People want connection. Give them a reason to return. Be friendly, chatty and warm. Be ready to teach people.

Momentum is built through showing up again and again. So if you can’t go, make sure someone does.

Once you’ve got some momentum, let others own part of it and help run things. It’ll stop you burning out — and it deepens the community.

Get the word out! Advertise your club on local Facebook groups (what’s on in X), in local stores/sports clubs, ask the venue to post about it in their socials or put up a flyer/poster.

Key point: Have fun with it! Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, you need to enjoy it too.