All over South Africa, more and more padel courts are being established. Padel is on its way to becoming a mainstream sport within South Africa and is now picking up in Central South Africa. Padel, from “pádel” in Spanish, is a racket sport of Mexican origin. It’s not to be mistaken for padel that’s played outside with a tennis ball and a racket with holes in it to allow for airflow to make it faster, whereas pickleball makes use of a solid bat and a plastic ball.

One of the founders of the soon-to-be Jubilee Padel Court in Hartswater Chereé Lategan, said she and her husband,  Johan, fell in love with the sport whilst visiting their parents in Ballito and knew they had to take it back home with them. “We stay in Hartswater, and I think there is a huge need for something else and excitement. And also because our whole family loves sport.”

The Jubilee Padel Court is under construction in Hartswater. Photo: Facebook

Jubilee Padel, however, did not jump on the wagon without doing their research. Chereé created a survey for 77 people on their thoughts on the opening of this sporting code in their town and the outcome was that 75 people felt that this would be a great initiative, and this was the go-ahead they needed to proceed with constructing the court.

Another padel court in Bloemfontein, Padel Worx, which opened its doors at the beginning of April, shared that they had a vision of having a padel court which would be more family-friendly. “We wanted a padel court that could be enjoyed by the grandparents as well as the grandchildren, the court caters to the whole family, and I think that is what makes our court unique from others,” said Anri Hobson.

While Padel Worx was still in the development stage, the pair found themselves covered in overwhelmed support from the community who would constantly check in on the progress, due to their excitement on a new venture they would be able to enjoy.

Padel Worx in Bloemfontein. Photo supplied

Padel player Kyle Cronjé spoke to OFM News about how he has been playing this sport for the past six months. “Once you’re on the field you realise why people are playing it, and it doesn’t even feel like you’re training. It’s just fun.”

It is safe to say that this up-and-coming sport has everyone excited to join in on the fun, and we can expect many more padel courts in Central South Africa.

OFM News dg