The Charlotte Padel Club, located at 2110 Pleasant Plains Road, has recently undergone a significant expansion. Co-owned by Raquel and Miguel Correa, the club added three new outdoor padel courts, effectively doubling the number of courts in Mecklenburg County. But what exactly is padel, and why is it gaining traction?
While pickleball often steals the spotlight, padel is quietly catching up. The Correa family, originally from Miami, decided to build their own padel courts in Charlotte when they couldn’t find any existing ones. Their club, Charlotte Padel Club, rents space at the Matthews Tennis Swim Club and operates as a separate business. Memberships start at $50 per month, but non-members can also play here.
Events and Tournament
With the expanded court capacity, Charlotte Padel Club can now host more events and tournaments. Recently, they hosted the BodyArmor State Games and the Summer Open, attracting players from Raleigh, Atlanta, and Asheville. The Summer Open, held from July 26-28, saw players turning it into a long weekend getaway.
Future Plans
The club has ambitious plans for the future. By late fall, at least three of the six courts will have a roof canopy, maintaining an open-air feel while providing shelter. Additionally, they hope to establish a second location closer to Uptown Charlotte.
Padel Across the U.S.
Padel’s popularity extends beyond Charlotte. It’s gaining traction across the United States, from New York and Philadelphia to California and Texas. In North Carolina, Charlotte Padel Club is one of two clubs, with the other being North Hills Club in Raleigh. There are also plans to add 16 more courts in Raleigh at a new racquet sports complex called Swing Racquet + Paddle.
In conclusion, padel is on the rise, and Charlotte Padel Club’s expansion reflects the sport’s growing popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned player or curious to try something new, the club offers an exciting opportunity to experience this dynamic racquet sport.
