We’re all celebrating at Padel4all today with the news that the membership total has now reached an impressive 500 players.

That means 500 padel enthusiasts regularly visit our three centres – at Basset Down, Southend’s Garon Park and Lockleaze in Bristol. It also means the sport is growing in all those areas and no doubt further afield as word of mouth spreads. It’s a tremendous achievement considering we only opened our first centre, at Basset Down, in September last year.

Padel4all Director Charlie Whelpton is over the moon at the enthusiasm for padel he’s witnessed over the past year or so. Now that the company has three centres here in the UK, he’s convinced the sport will take off even further.

“Everyone at Padel4all works hard to ensure visitors and members have a positive experience at our centres,” he said. “So, it’s great to have received some amazingly positive feedback from those who have come and played – both via our social media channels and face-to-face. 

“We are absolutely delighted to announce that we have just reached the milestone of 500 members. It shows not only how the popularity and love for the sport is growing but also trust in ourselves at Padel4all as a brand. Here’s to the next 500 members.”

It shouldn’t come as too big a surprise that the Padel4all membership has reached 500. Not, that is, when you consider the huge benefits becoming a Padel4all member brings. And, if you’re not already familiar with them, then here is a reminder:

Benefits of a Padel Plus membership

Chances are, if you take out a Padel Plus membership, that it’s because you’re playing regularly. And, if so, then you’ll certainly benefit from the membership discount you get on court booking fees. Not only that, but you’ll also get a 10% discount on your new piece of equipment or gym wear when you buy it from the padel store. Oh, and you’ll also receive free racket hire every time you play – if you haven’t yet invested in your own racket.

Other benefits of a Padel Plus membership which are definitely not to be missed, include a 14-day priority booking period to make sure you don’t miss out on a court. There are also reduced rates on coaching programmes if you feel you want to ‘up’ your game.

Finally, there is a complimentary Padel4all induction if you’re just learning to play, as well as access to a members-only online area on our website. And did we mention the exclusive partner promotions and LTA Advantage Play + membership? Or free entry to the Wimbledon ballot? Yep – there’s a lot to sign up for.

Signing up to Padel4all couldn’t be simpler. Just go to the website and click ‘join’ under the list of Padel Plus membership benefits.

And know that you’re in good company if you do…

@thetimes: “Lionel Messi loves playing so much he has reportedly installed a padel court in his back garden, and his fellow footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has opened a chain of five Padel Zenter clubs in Sweden, with one planned for Milan.”