31 Mar Padel Power

East of Scotland Tennis is pleased to announce that it will be supporting the growth and development of Padel and rebranding to include the sport in its identity.

Since 1920, East of Scotland Tennis has managed tennis within the County, refining an effective model that supports both performance and participation by delivering local competitions and coaching programmes linked to the national pathway. Over that time, East has helped to create an environment in which tennis has been able to thrive.

By bringing Padel under its umbrella, the association will support the objectives of the national governing body, Tennis Scotland, by promoting and developing the game locally to encourage participation and activity. The sport is growing quickly in the East of Scotland, with facilities at Edinburgh Sports Club, Thistle Tennis Club, Hatton Tennis Club, Barnton Park Tennis Club, The Grange Club, Craigmillar Tennis Club, Powerleague Portobello & Sighthill and David Lloyd Shawfair and Corstorphine.

Viki Mendelssohn, Chair of East of Scotland Tennis, said: “As part of our delivery agreement with Tennis Scotland, we have a remit to grow and support Padel. We aim to put in place the same kind of organised, transparent and supportive model that has helped tennis flourish for generations. We will also be seeking commercial partnerships to assist in exposing Padel to sponsors and the new opportunities it offers.

“Our goal is simple: to give Padel in the East of Scotland the foundations it needs to thrive, drawing on the experience, stability, and community focus that have underpinned East of Scotland Tennis. We look forward to working with Tennis Scotland, players, clubs, volunteers and partners to grow the game together.”

Al McCulloch, an LTA Padel Tutor in the East of Scotland, said: “I am very much looking forward to the next step of evolving Padel in the East with my coaching hat on. East of Scotland Tennis is doing a great job with tennis and the fit is perfect for both sports to thrive. I was a co-investor in one of the first Padel courts in Edinburgh at Thistle Tennis Club, so I have seen the opportunity and the challenges ahead. This announcement is an important part of the Padel journey.”