Locals battle it out in padel and tennis
October 4 marked more than just a day of sport at the Sandton Racket Club; it showcased a growing community brought together by passion and purpose.
A crisp spring morning did not stop more than 150 community members from coming out to the Sandton Racket Club on October 4 to enjoy a vibrant mix of padel, tennis, and social activity.
Among the thwacks of rackets and laughter of children on the playground, the scene was buzzing with families and dog walkers all enjoying the upgraded facilities as part of the club’s ongoing transformation.
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Club manager Drago Elez, who first introduced padel to South Africa, spoke with pride about the club’s journey and growing role in the community.
“We’ve been here for over 30 years, and now we’re finally upgrading everything. We just finished phase one of the renovation, and now we’re starting phase two,” said Elez. “It’s not just about sport anymore.
It’s about people. We’re building programmes for youth, for charity, for fitness, and for fun.”
From yoga and chess matches to dog-walking and family picnics, the Sandton Racket Club is quickly becoming a multi-purpose community hub.
On this particular morning, three chess matches had just wrapped up, children were playing, while athletes of all ages battled it out on the tennis and padel courts.
“We’ve got something for everyone,” said Elez. “Whether it’s yoga, skills training, martial arts for youth empowerment, or just walking your dog, this place is open.
We want to work with anyone who has a vision to help the community.”
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The club is launching two new youth-focused initiatives in the coming months, both centred around empowerment, mental health, and personal development.
One of the core goals is to reduce suicide, boost self-confidence, and fight abuse, especially among girls in South Africa.
“We’re focusing strongly on South African youth, especially young girls.
We’re teaching life skills, self-defence, proper nutrition, and fitness. And we’ve got space, so much space to teach the right things and help the older generation too.”
Elez added that the club is open to collaborating with anyone running educational or sports programmes, and extended a warm invitation to partners, schools, NPOs, and individuals alike.
“We’re ready to sit down with anyone and talk about working together. This is more than a club now. It’s a centre of the community.”
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