Cricketer Joe Root is part of a team bringing the fast-growing sport of Padel to Abbeydale Sports Club within weeks.
The England and Yorkshire player joins Rotherham United FC keeper Cameron Dawson and managing director Alex Fleming to make up part of the group bringing new brand Play Padel Sheffield.
Sports industry pro Chris Millard and entrepreneur Harry Bliss complete the team.
The friends began to work in early 2023 to find a venue and get the ball rolling.
Alex Fleming, also the founder of Play Padel Sheffield, said: “We were playing regularly when travelling and couldn’t believe there wasn’t anywhere to play in Sheffield.
“Padel is so much fun, it’s so easy for four mates to rock up, grab a rental racket, and be having a competitive rally after 10 minutes of picking up a racket.”
For those who don’t know Padel is a mix between squash and tennis and has rocketed in popularity in recent years – partly because it is very easy for beginners to pick up.
All of the friends share the same goal, attempting to boost the city’s sporting legacy with a new sport, get people active and bring them together, no matter their ability.
Alex said: “The barrier to entry is so low, and literally any demographic can play. I can’t wait to see our Sheffield community get the bug.”
Alex also commented on the process of working with his friends: “We put so much time into planning our brand, the venue fitout, our identity. Every little detail you’ll see at our venue had so much thought put into it.
“All the lads have had a lot of input to every element from carpet tiles, coffee machines, staff uniforms, the list is endless.”
Their site will include a stylish coffee bar with premium brew, a retail area for the latest gear and equipment, and chill out areas designated for socialising and unwinding.
They have documented the step-by-step process of constructing their venue on their TikTok.
Keep an eye on their socials for the rest of the construction journey, official date of opening and how to book:
TikTok / Instagram – @playpadelsheffield
Facebook / LinkedIn – Play Padel Sheffield
