Padel Arrives At Elie
On the 6th of July, members of the community and the Elie Sports Club gathered with local visitors for the official opening of our two brand-new first-in-region padel courts. Padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world. It is played with a small padel racket with slower bouncing balls on an enclosed court. Typically played by doubles, padel is a fun, low-impact sport enjoyed by players of every age and ability.
The not-so-pleasant summer weather provided a very wet start to the opening ceremony proceedings. That did not deter a good turnout. Thankfully, the weather improved. As the day progressed, visitors and members of all ages played or tried the game for the first time in some beautiful East Neuk afternoon sunshine.
The event was organised by the Club's racket sports convenor, Sally Spillsbury, and club manager, Julie Otto. The ceremony began with traditional bagpipe music played by Sally's son, Hamish, to usher onto the court members of the Club Committee and guest of honour, Julian James. Sally made introductions, handing over to Julian to give what was an inspiring speech to officially recognise the opening.
Julian has been a member of the Elie and Earlsferry community for over 50 years. He is a long-time supporter of Elie Sports Club and served as managing secretary from 1999 until 2010. During his tenure overseeing the Club, Julian played an integral role in many facility improvements while always maintaining the Club's commitment to serve our community with access to quality and affordable sports. Julian recounted similar efforts in the Club's history when new facilities were successfully built with local and community support. He shared with those present that our new padel courts were no different, recognising the bold and considerable efforts of the Club Committee and manager and the significant support of many local families. Julian also highlighted the grants and loans gratefully received from Tennis Scotland and the CSET Landfill Fund and the on-time and on-budget installation by Doe Sports of Leven. Julian concluded his speech by encouraging young and old to pick up their padel rackets and play on the new courts without delay. The Elie Sports Club padel courts were officially open!
With the sun making an appearance, the Club's new racket sports head coach, Anna Myatt assisted by Kirsty Humphries and Jack Ganley from Tennis Scotland, introduced first-time players to the rules of the game and the basics of play. With music (of all eras) playing happily from the club manager Julie's loudspeakers, onlookers from outside the courts enjoyed watching dozens of members and visitors of all ages get their first taste of the game at the Elie Sports Club. The event came to an end to make way for the courts to be used by eight players already pre-booked for play!
We are delighted to offer Padel at Elie. For the duration of the summer, Anna and her team will be running open-to-all sessions and coaching. Please check the website and our Facebook page for times, availability, pricing and updates. We hope everyone enjoys the new padel courts and encourage players to use our booking app powered by the Clubspark and the LTA or call the pro shop - 01333 330 955.
