Exciting news—Ely Outdoor Sports Association (EOSA) has secured planning permission to build two brand-new padel courts at their site behind Ely Leisure Village. Now, they need support from the Ely community to raise the funds and bring this fantastic new sport to the area.
To help make it happen, EOSA has launched a Crowdfunding campaign. Donations can be made directly, or supporters can claim rewards from local businesses, including Piccolo Lounge, Poets House, and ActivePlay Education.
Find out more and donate here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-bring-padel-to-ely
What is Padel?
Padel is the world’s fastest-growing racket sport—a fun, social mix of tennis and squash played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. It’s easy to learn, highly sociable, and suitable for all ages and abilities.
Currently, there are around 90,000 padel players in the UK, but the LTA expects this to grow to 600,000 by 2026. Despite this rapid growth, the nearest padel courts to Ely are in Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds, or St Ives. EOSA wants to change that and bring padel to Ely.
Why Support EOSA?
EOSA is a not-for-profit, volunteer-led organisation based behind Ely Leisure Village. It provides sports and social facilities for Ely Tigers Rugby Club, Ely City Hockey Club, Ely Tennis Club, and the wider community.
EOSA’s day-to-day running costs are covered by club memberships and facility hire, but extra funding is needed to build the padel courts.
Alongside Crowdfunding, EOSA is applying for grants, with the goal of completing the courts this summer. Once built, the courts will be available through padel membership or pay-to-play options, making them affordable and accessible for everyone.
How You Can Help
EOSA is asking for the community’s support to make these courts a reality.
- Donate—every contribution, big or small, makes a difference!
- Claim a reward from a local business in exchange for your support.
- Businesses can donate vouchers, products, or services to be offered as rewards in the Crowdfunding campaign.
Businesses that contribute will help expand Ely’s sporting facilities while also gaining valuable exposure within the local community.
For more details or to offer business support, email Julia Gilbert at padel.eosa@gmail.com.
With your help, we can bring padel to Ely—let’s make it happen!
