The University of Exeter is set to swing into a new chapter of racket sports with the establishment of its first-ever padel society. Spearheaded by international duo Aidan Du Preez from South Africa and Guy Stonor from the UK, the Exeter Padel Club is set to offer students an exciting blend of competitive play, community spirit, and inclusive initiatives. So what about engagement? How about 150 members in the first seven days?
The Exeter Padel Club proudly joins the ranks of the National University Padel League (NUPL), a student-run league that brings together universities from across the UK. Participation in the NUPL means that Exeter will field four men’s teams and two women’s teams, totaling 12 players representing the university on a national stage. The inclusion of women’s teams is particularly significant, highlighting the club’s commitment to promoting gender equality in sports.
Exclusive Benefits for Club Members
Membership to the Exeter Padel Club is not just about playing the game; its a union for exclusive benefits:
- Exclusive discounted courts time at CityPadelExeter during off-peak hours
- Exclusive discounts on rackets from Novor
- Eligibility to win prizes (such as padel club kit, rackets, ball repressurize machine )
- Access to play in our NUPL teams 8 men(4 teams) 4 women (2 teams)
- Access to socials and other club events such as tournaments and society partnership events where we collaborate with other societies.
- This girl can initiative- exclusive girls only padel session led by our ladies padel captain with the aims of having a session that is less intimidating and allows ladies to ease into the sport and get tailored advice and create an inclusive community which encourages further involvement within the club.
The “This Girl Can” Initiative
Inclusivity is at the heart of the Exeter Padel Club. In alignment with the university’s “This Girl Can” initiative, the club is dedicated to encouraging more women to take up padel.
Led by our ladies’ padel captain, we offer exclusive girls-only sessions designed to create a welcoming and less intimidating environment. These sessions aim to provide tailored advice and build a supportive community that inspires continued involvement in the sport.
Co-founder Guy Stonor brings a wealth of experience to the club, having been a ranked player in Australia. He will be conducting coaching sessions to help members refine their skills and deepen their understanding of the game. Additionally, the club has partnered with The Padel School, granting members free access to professional training resources. Plans are underway for a coaching clinic to be held at the end of 2024, offering an exceptional opportunity for members to learn from seasoned professionals.
To push the Exeter University further, Aiden and Guy is meeting with the director of sport at the Exeter Uni, with the aim to get the university involved in padel. The main idea being they bring courts to the campus. The Society is setting it self and the university up to thrive.
Upcoming Events and How to Join
The Exeter Padel Club is gearing up to host its own events at City Padel Exeter, with the league set to play in Exeter in the coming months. These events promise to be a highlight of the university’s sporting calendar, fostering camaraderie and showcasing the dynamic nature of padel.
Membership is priced at an affordable £35 for the entire year, providing exceptional value given the array of benefits on offer. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, the Exeter Padel Club welcomes you to join a community where fun, fitness, and friendship come together on the court.
For more information and to sign up, visit the Exeter Padel Society website.
The establishment of the Exeter Padel Club marks an exciting development in the university’s sports offerings. It’s not just about playing a game; it’s about building a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates the joy of sport. So grab a racket, step onto the court, and be part of Exeter’s newest sporting adventure.