Young athletes had a change to display their talent in Calgary on the weekend, in a fast-growing racquet sport. Padel combines elements of tennis, squash, and badminton, and is played with a partner. The Alberta Padel Association held a junior tournament at the True Padel Club in southeast Calgary on Saturday. Boys and girls between the ages of seven and 19 took part. The group included kids who have never played padel before. Organizers want to encourage more young people to get involved. “I come from Spain,” said Isidro Arranz, the manager and head coach at True Padel Club. “It’s super popular there and it’s growing in the whole world. In Alberta, right now we have two clubs,” he said. Young athletes taking part say they love the sport. “There was no girls category, so we’re playing in the U19 boys,” said padel player Kajsa Marchant. “So far, we are undefeated.” Her padel partner shares the same enthusiasm. “We’re an awesome like partnership, and we have such a connection on court, and it’s just so fun to play,” said Juliana Mendes. Other junior tournaments are planned across Calgary and Edmonton. For more about Padel Alberta, go here.
