iPadel finals break new records
The fourth iPadel Club Summer League finals rose to new levels with three first-time winners in the end-of-season showdown at Rocket Padel, Bristol. The record-breaking overall league entry of 165 teams had been whittled down to 36 from across the UK for the finals, with four category titles (men’s club & premier, ladies, mixed) up for grabs. The competition was fierce in the pursuit of glory, as The Bandeja reports.
The opening day of the finals weekend saw the two men’s tournaments take centre stage with a series of closely fought matches in both the Premier and Club categories. The format saw two pairs do battle, with a 10-point deciding set if the teams were tied, which created a tense and competitive atmosphere.
In the Premier section, fourth seeds David Lloyd Bushey 1 were the first of the weekend’s new winners. After receiving a bye in the first round they claimed three closely contested 2-1 victories against Padel Shift 1 in the last eight, Middlesbrough 1 in the semi-finals and Padel4All Bassett Down 1 in the final.
Padel4All Bassett Down 1 had opened their bid with 2-0 first round win over David Lloyd Bushey 2, and then caused an upset in the last eight with a surprise 2-1 win over defending champions and top seeds Rocks Lane Padel 1. They repeated the scoreline in the semi-finals with a win over third seeds The Padel Club 1.
In the Men’s Club section final, top seeds Chichester took on third seeds Winchester, which saw ‘underdogs’ Winchester coming out on top 2-1 to take the title for the first time.
Winchester’s route to glory opened with a 2-0 win over Oxshott 2 in the quarter finals before repeating the scoreline against The Padel Club 2 in the last four.
Chichester’s path to the final saw them chalk up 2-0 wins over Holmer Green 2 in the last eight and Padel4All Lockleaze 2 in the semi-final to claim their place in the final.
iPadel founder Ian Colligon said: “It was an incredible first day which saw two new winners in both categories. What was really noticeable is that the standard of play in the Club section is catching up with the Premier level.”
Twenty-four hours later it was the turn of the women and mixed teams to go head-to-head, with eight teams in each section.
A new champion adorned the women’s trophy with OTRO, a collection of ladies from Yorkshire coached by Jake Fox, taking the title in style with three straight 2-0 wins. Padel Hub Crawley were seen off in the last eight, David Lloyd Bushey were next in the semi-finals, with Epsom unable to stop the in-form ladies in the final.
Epsom’s path to the final included 2-1 wins over East Glos 1 and then Rocket Padel Bristol.
In the mixed final there was no major shock as top seeds and past winners Rocks Lane Chiswick – whose team featured GB women’s international Victoria Nicholas – lived up to their billing to take the title with a 2-0 victory over Roehampton in the final.
Rocks Lane Chiswick completed a clean sweep with 2-0 wins over Ezee Padel Weybridge and then Padel Hub Slough. Roehampton had a walkover in their first match against East Glos 1 and then secured a 2-0 semi-final win over The Padel Club.
Ian added: “It was a great weekend in which the quality of matches continues to improve year on year. We had a record number of teams enter this year and The Padel Club Wilmslow, who were taking part for the first time, had teams competing in all categories at the finals which is the first time that has happened.
“This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of so many people and organisations. Thanks to Roxy Keshavarz, who referred the tournament, and Frances Allberry who supported with the administration.
“Then there are our partners and sponsors, Rocket Padel Bristol, main sponsor Joma, Nox, who provide the balls, Padel1969 for the trophies, Padelshack, The Bandeja, Padel London and KickX,” added Ian.
Winter registration open
Registration has closed for the iPadel Club League Winter tournament, with 165 teams signed up, up on 130 clubs last year. For more details about iPadel Club Leagues click here or email ian@ipadel.co.uk 🎾
