Team Sassy Tries Padel For The First Time At Sai Kung’s PADEL+ Hong Kong

Never heard of padel? Neither had we! Find out what we thought of this new trendy sport.

When we were told we had to dress in activewear and head to Sai Kung for our next Sassy Social, we naturally thought the team would be getting together for an afternoon hike. Upon arriving at our destination, we’re surprised to be welcomed by a large sign reading “PADEL+” and a club that led us out to bright blue courts in the back. The name of the club gave us a little hint about the kind of sport we’d be playing but none of us recognised the chunky carbon-fibre rackets that were displayed on the walls. We soon found out that we would be trying a little-known sport (to Hong Kong at least!) that has recently been gaining popularity in Europe. Needless to say, we were excited to hop on the trend! Read on to learn more about the sport and find out how our day at PADEL+ Hong Kong went.

What is Padel?

With origins in Latin America, padel tennis actually first emerged all the way back in the early 70s. It is essentially a racket sport that blends tennis and squash. Padel is played on a smaller, enclosed court, and it’s these walls that add an exciting twist to the game. The goal is to use the walls strategically to create unexpected angles and shots.

Our Visit To PADEL+ Hong Kong

Tucked away in Sai Kung is Hong Kong’s first padel club, PADEL+ Hong Kong. Complete with a cafe, changing rooms, equipment shop and specially designed padel courts, the club offers a range of private and group padel sessions, for all levels of experience. Here’s what our team members thought about the sport:

Ira, Partnerships Support Executive

Experience level: I felt a mix of excitement but mostly nerves stepping into the court as it was my first time playing tennis and having almost failed table tennis in high school P.E.

What I enjoyed about the sport: After a few hits and way more misses, my competitive spirit started to come out. I love that it’s a social sport that offers significant fitness benefits. It’s a great way to bond with friends and stay active at the same time.

After the class I felt… challenged! I embraced the game with a beginner’s passion and discovered the joy of padel one swing at a time.

Joy, Designer

Experience level: Zero! First time I heard about padel.

What I enjoyed about the sport: As soon as I stepped onto the PADEL+ court, the carbon fibre racket felt like an extension of my arm. A light tap easily sent the ball flying. The responsiveness of the racket really surprised me, and I really enjoyed seeing how far the ball went with such little power.

After the class I felt… happy! Being surrounded by nature, in the midst of a cool breeze and tons of trees, I felt super energised running across the cobalt blue court.

Emilie, CEO

Experience level: I’m an enthusiastic tennis player.

What I enjoyed about the sport: I loved how fun and accessible it was, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying my time on the court. It was surprisingly easy to pick up although the rules can be a little tricky to remember. The coach was excellent – always attentive and hands-on. He organised engaging games that got everyone involved, and the team had a blast playing together.

After the class, I felt… excited to learn a new sport and am looking forward to sharing it with my family.

Nicole, Executive Editor

Experience level: I went in feeling quite apprehensive about learning a new sport. I was never great at P.E. in school and I couldn’t remember the last time I played badminton, squash or tennis.

What I enjoyed about the sport: The sport was surprisingly easy to pick up! I wasn’t the best at keeping score, but the rules were simple enough to remember. I guess those tennis and badminton lessons back in the day paid off because I managed to hit the ball in the right direction (more or less…) – and the popping sound the ball made each time it hit the paddle was always very satisfying.

After the class I felt… energised! I forgot how good it feels to have that boost of endorphins rush through you after a good workout. It was also fun to see the competitive side of some of my colleagues come out!

Mansha Channa, Head of Partnerships

Experience level: It was my first time playing padel but I do play tennis.

What I enjoyed about the sport: It’s challenging and fun. There are lots of rules to be learned, being a mix of squash and tennis. I also enjoyed the fact that it’s a social sport, I had a wonderful time playing with my colleagues.

After the class I felt… invigorated! I enjoyed trying a new sport and learning the rules and how it differed from tennis. It was a great workout and with the courts surrounded by nature, I left feeling calm and relaxed.

Elle Noble, Managing Director

Experience level: I’m a very active person, and have played tennis and squash in the past, but this was my first time trying padel.

What I enjoyed about the sport: It was very easy to pick up and everyone on our team seemed to be having fun and getting the hang of it in no time, regardless of their level of experience. I loved that it is a doubles game, as it made it such a great team building experience. The venue has a really fun vibe and is surrounded by nature and this made me feel like I could happily hang out there all day practicing!

After the class I felt… inspired to find a padel partner and make this a regular hobby!

PADEL+ Hong Kong, 4A Wang Kong Tsuen, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.padelplus.com.hk