Sandi Procter, President of the Lawn Tennis Association, has officially opened the new padel courts at East Grinstead Sports Club, marking a significant step in the growth of the sport in Great Britain.
The event, held on May 18, was attended by local dignitaries, including Mims Davies MP and East Grinstead Mayor John Belsey. The four covered courts, equipped with floodlights and weatherproof features, were made possible through an LTA Tennis Foundation Quick Access Loan, one of the largest grants awarded by the charity.
Procter emphasized the importance of padel in expanding access to racket sports, highlighting its growing popularity across the country. The new courts are open to the public, aligning with the club’s mission to foster community engagement and inclusivity.
Richard Leman, acting chair of the club’s trustees, expressed excitement about integrating padel into the club’s multi-sport offerings. He praised the collaborative effort that brought the project to life and encouraged players of all levels to experience the sport.
Padel has seen a surge in participation in recent years, with over 400,000 people playing the sport in Great Britain. The LTA has invested millions in its development, supporting the construction of courts nationwide to meet the increasing demand.
The opening of the East Grinstead padel courts represents another milestone in the sport’s expansion, providing a high-quality facility for players to enjoy and further strengthening the local sporting community.
