VANDERBIJLPARK – The Old Vaaltonians Sports Club is stepping into the future with a fresh addition to its already impressive sporting lineup: a state-of-the-art padel court that’s set to bring families, friends, and sports enthusiasts even closer together.
“Old Vaal has always been dedicated to sports, particularly focusing on development and engaging the younger generations to nurture our future sports stars,” said club chairperson Dorette Daneel.
So, when longtime club member Darren Redfern and his business partner Ettiene Viviers from VR Padel approached the committee with the idea of building a padel court, it felt like a perfect fit.
“Darren has been a member for many years, dating back to the early days of Old Vaal, and his parents, Dave and Lynn Redfern, are Life Honorary Members of the club,” explained Dorette.
Their proposal sparked immediate excitement. With families in mind, padel quickly stood out as the best option.
“We often noticed that one parent would bring their children to sports practices and then wait around until the children were done,” Dorette shared.
“With padel, parents and kids can practice and train together while waiting. It just makes sense.” Construction began in mid-April after a weather delay, and not a moment too soon for the eager committee.
“Darren, Ettiene, and I were like children on Christmas morning when the rain finally subsided and the work could begin,” she laughs. There will also be a pro shop in the main building that will stock a wide range of rackets, balls, apparel and consumables.
Club members have taken a keen interest in the progress, often stopping by for updates and photos. “We call them our supervising members,” Dorette jokes.
For now, just one court is being built, but plans are already in place to add two more in the near future.
The court will be open to both the public and club members, and there are exciting plans for coaching, youth development, leagues, and tournaments. This new venture is about more than just sport.
It’s about community. “We are a community-driven club, with something for everyone,” said Dorette. “It’s a great honour to be part of building and expanding the club.
Watching kids who grew up here return to invest in the future feels like a full circle moment,” she added. “At this stage, we offer cricket, rugby, and soccer at Old Vaal.
Adding padel to the mix enhances our sports culture. Old Vaal is also the home ground of the Midas Running Club and Run Walk for Life. We will always look at new possibilities of sports as the need arises,” Dorette concluded.
