Avid sportswoman a rising star in Padel

Since picking up a padel racket in July 2022, Kearsney Raine Cross has evolved into a talented presence in the sport, making waves within the Double Trouble League and competing across mixed and ladies’ divisions.

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She has embraced the thrill of competition and camaraderie, participating in various tournaments around Johannesburg.

Padel inspired her love for challenge and competition. “Having been an avid sportswoman since I can remember, the sound of a new sport and challenge certainly piqued my interest. There was no option other than to give it a go. All it took was one padel game, and I was hooked.”

Her background in tennis and squash helped her grasp the game’s fundamentals, although the adjustment provided significant frustration, particularly when it came to avoiding hitting the ball like she would in tennis.

The highlight of her journey came in October last year when Cross and her partner triumphed in the second division of the Breast Cancer Awareness Padel Tournament. “Winning was exhilarating, but participating in a cause that affects 1 in 8 women in South Africa meant even more,” she reflected.

Competing in both mixed and ladies’ divisions of the Double Trouble League, Cross cherishes the friendships she’s formed. “The league fosters a welcoming community, regardless of skill level.”
She added that her journey alongside her partner has been both a challenge and a joy. Their hard work culminated in a victory in Division 3 at the end of 2023.

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Her ambitions for the future include spending more time on the padel court, continuing to refine her game, and participating in various tournaments as her schedule allows. Despite her busy professional life, she remains dedicated to her development, eyeing opportunities to compete and further her skills.

Cross offers simple yet profound advice for newcomers considering padel: “Get on the court and give it a go. Your first few games may be a nightmare, but with a little perseverance, you’ll master the basics. Remember to have fun. You don’t need friends to play, just join a club and play.”

Inspired by the guidance of a seasoned player and coach like Loock Anthony, and renowned athlete Debbie Van Aswegen, Cross has learned valuable lessons about resilience and sportsmanship. “You cannot allow a mistake to define the rest of the game. It’s a bad shot, not a bad game,” she explains, echoing a sentiment many athletes can relate to.

As padel continues its rise as one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, Cross is not merely a participant; she is a trailblazer, embodying the spirit of competition and camaraderie that makes the sport so enticing. With her passion, dedication, and competitive edge, one thing is clear: Cross is just getting started.

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