Padel is experiencing an unprecedented global boom, recognised as the world's fastest-growing racket sport. As it is accessible and low impact, the sport is expanding rapidly in the UK—from 50 courts in 2019 to over 1,000 by 2025 (confirmed by the LTA), with significant investments driving further growth.

Padel is a sociable racket sport, often described as a combination of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court. The court measures 20m by 10m and is surrounded by glass and mesh. Players use solid, perforated rackets and low compression balls. The rules are broadly the same as tennis, although the serve is underarm and the glass walls can be used to keep the ball in play. Padel is usually played with a partner and can be played by people of any age or ability.

For more information on Padel in the UK, follow this link LTA PADEL 

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Paul Eversfield has recently been appointed as Derbyshire Padel Ambassador and is supported by Barbara Derbyshire, our Derbyshire Padel Lead.

Paul is passionate about growing participation and strengthening the competitive structure of padel across Derbyshire. His vision begins with introducing friendly, handicapped club matches using Playtomic ratings—creating more opportunities for players of all levels to represent their clubs, with the long-term goal of developing a county-wide league system.

He is equally committed to boosting engagement in existing LTA events, actively encouraging players through strong communication networks and leading by example through his own participation.

Looking ahead, Paul aims to establish representative county teams, particularly across age groups, giving more players the chance to experience the pride of competing for Derbyshire. Supporting this ambition, he also advocates for a clear player pathway through a revitalised County Championship structure, helping to grow both participation and competitive depth across the county.

Barbara has been playing padel for almost three years, having transitioned from playing tennis at Littleover for many years.

The Padel team aim is to highlight the achievements of our Derbyshire padel players, who are touring the country to play in LTA tournaments at all age levels from juniors to the recently added over 65s. We would like to raise the profile of these players on Social Media, so it would be great if you could send a photo and short summary of your achievements to padel@derbyshiretennis.co.uk.

We are lucky in Derbyshire to have first class facilities: 

Just Padel Derby where there are 11 double indoor courts.

Church Broughton where there is 1 outdoor floodlit court.

S3 Padel Derby in the Derbion Centre where there are 10 double indoor courts.

Derbyshire Tennis Centre has now opened  its first padel court! Available to both non-members and members. Click here for more details.

Padel Dronfield – 3 outdoor padel courts

Padel T Ilkeston – 6 outdoor courts

COMING SOON! 4 COVERED, PANORAMIC PADEL COURTS IN MICKLEOVER at the Don Amott Arena

To find all Padel venues in Derbyshire please click here.

Padel Tournaments

https://competitions.lta.org.uk/tournaments

https://www.elevatesportpadel.co.uk/

https://kathryntennis.carrd.co/

DERBYSHIRE TOURNAMENTS - April 2026

WPA Mansfield Grade 5 MD/WD 60+

WPA Mansfield Grade 4 MD/WD Open

If you are interested we have "The Legends group", promoting padel for over 60s, running Mixicanos, tournaments and leagues around the country. Find out more here: https://legends-padel.com/