Anyone for tennis?

Thanks to the likes of the All England Lawn Tennis Club - better known as Wimbledon, and Queens Club in West Kensington - the suburbs of London have become synonymous with the game of tennis. But now there is a new kid on the ball-sports block - panel - and Surrey is once again surging in the playing stakes.

What Is Padel Tennis?

Padel originated in Mexico in 1969, when Enrique Corcuera set up the first padel court in his backyard in Acapulco. The game is typically played in pairs or ‘doubles’ on a court which is about a third the size of a tennis court, surrounded by glass and mesh walls. 

The game uses a solid, stringless racket and a pressurised ball. Players serve underhand, and the ball can bounce off the walls, adding a unique strategic element to the game. Its social nature and accessibility make it particularly appealing to middle-aged players and families. 

Padel Facilities across Surrey

Surrey boasts one of the highest concentrations of padel courts in the UK, with more than 13 venues offering facilities for enthusiasts. Notable clubs include:

EzeePadel (Weybridge): A welcoming club offering programmes for all levels, including social play, leagues, and professional coaching. Children under 18 receive free membership if their parents are members. 

Oxshott Village Sports Club: Features two floodlit padel courts offering extra hours of play. A waiting list for membership is currently in place. 

Esher Lawn Tennis Club: Home to men's, ladies', and mixed teams competing in local and national leagues, including the Surrey Padel League and LTA National Padel League.

Purley Sports Club: Offers both peak and off-peak memberships, with court fees ranging from £3.50 to £15 per person per hour, depending on membership status and time of play. 

Competitive Scene: Surrey Padel League

The Surrey Padel League is a prominent local competition, featuring teams from various clubs across the county. The 2023 season culminated in a Festival & Finals Day at Epsom Lawn Tennis Club, with 33 teams competing in events such as men's, women's, and mixed doubles, as well as a Centurion Doubles event for players with a combined age of 100+. The event showcased the sport's growing popularity and community spirit.

Challenges and Community Response

Despite its popularity, the expansion of padel courts has faced challenges. Residents in some areas have raised concerns about noise levels. In response, some clubs are opting for indoor facilities to mitigate noise and light pollution. 

There are plans however, for several new facilities with Mole Valley District Council being the latest to approve proposals for a new padel centre with six courts under a dome next to Leatherhead Leisure Centre, aiming to host national and international competitions. 

The Future of Padel in Surrey

Notable tennis stars, including Sir Andy Murray and former player turned presenter Andrew Castle have boosted the game in the area. As the past-time grows, Surrey residents of all ages can look forward to more opportunities to take part, whether through casual play, competitive leagues, or community events. The blend of physical activity, social interaction, and accessibility makes padel tennis a sport for everyone in Surrey.

Why I Play Padel

Dorking resident Russell Glass took up the sport five years ago after being introduced to it by a friend.

Although Russell had played ‘regular’ tennis since childhood, he says this is in no way a requirement as ‘padel’ is great fun for anyone who has played a racquet sport such as badminton, table tennis or squash.

Russell says: “It is scored in the same way as tennis, but it also includes elements from other games. For example you can hit the ball off the back or side wall as in squash. You usually play in doubles so it is very social and it is very fast so it’s great aerobic exercise. But there isn’t as much ground to cover and not as much lunging or reaching so it is a bit kinder on the joints.”