Dr Mathole Motshekga Primary School’s learners exposed to padel in Glen Austin
The love of padel is extended to the young learns of Dr Mathole Motshekga Primary School in Glen Austin.
Dr Mathole Motshekga Primary School learners were treated to something special as they participated in an old sport known as padel, which has taken the world by storm.
Padel Xtreme in Glen Austin hosted the learners on March 12 and will open the facility to the school twice a week with transportation provided for them by BMW Midrand.
The previously uncommon sport of padel was invented in Mexico in the 60s but has only recently gained traction in many countries including South Africa.
“Padel can be described as a combination of tennis and squash, with similar rules, and is played on a 10x20m court enclosed by steel mesh and glass,” said Seelan Naidoo, CEO of PadelXtreme.
Padel Xtreme launched its first club last year in Midrand after Naidoo noticed that people from disadvantaged backgrounds did not have easy access to sports facilities.
“It’s only a certain class of people who can access facilities and from what I heard some clubs do so intentionally. We thought to expose the sport to the greater population and let all kids play. Currently, South Africa has about 200 000 padel players.”
Luke Dreyer, dealer principal at BMW Midrand said, “Well, I think it’s important for the private sector to be investing in the communities that we position ourselves in.”
The learners cherished the opportunity to be part of the fastest-growing sport in the world. Thandoluhle Lindiwe Mdluli and Anoyolo Moshweshwe, both Grade 7 learners at the school agreed that playing the sport has helped them immensely.
Anoyolo said, “I never thought I’d play sports because I’ve never been comfortable about my body but now, I’m getting used to it and I’m liking it.”
Region A manager for Sports, Arts, and Recreation Enock Mosiea was also in attendance and said, “This is a great initiative Padel Xtreme has put together because the most important thing is giving a child without opportunities more opportunities and this initiative at least looks into that.”
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