Chrissie Hoolahan founded Padel Match to help singletons find love on the padel court – and her first event ‘worked its magic’ with numbers exchanged and second dates arranged.
Padel Match’s inaugural event last week at Rocks Lane in Chiswick saw 16 males and 16 females aged between 28-40 engage in a different kind of courting.
Each player had the chance to play multiple games throughout the evening with different partners, with drinks and prizes. The next event is on 10 September for singles aged 24-34.
“The aim is to bring people together and make padel more accessible through fun social events at various locations in and around London,” founder Chrissie (above) told The Padel Paper.
“Given the increased demand to meet people in real life, the initial focus is on events for singles of different age groups with the aim to branch out in the future to those non-single too. It’s exciting to see where Padel Match will go!
“It was great to bring people together via the power of padel. Having a sport to play whilst getting to know someone new creates a much more relaxed environment and takes the pressure off typical dating. Plus you’re essentially getting 16 dates for the price of one!
“Since the event I have had several people asking me for others’ details which I love and makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something. Hopefully I can be the cause of someone’s love story!”
Padel Match is already proving a welcome real-life alternative to the dating app treadmill.
One player at Rocks Lane said: “I loved meeting new like-minded people, with the added bonus of having an activity to make ‘dating’ more relaxed and fun! I have recommended it to all of my friends!”
Another attendee commented: “It was a really fun experience from start to finish. The event ran smoothly and made you feel instantly comfortable meeting new people. It didn’t matter if you were a beginner or expert, everyone was made to feel welcome. You even have a padel coach on standby for a few extra tips.
“I would highly recommend it to anyone single who enjoys playing sports and wants a new organised way to meet someone. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to go back!”
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