Xcite-ing! New indoor court for West Lothian
In an exciting first for West Lothian in Scotland, an indoor padel court has opened within Xcite Bathgate, offering year-round playability following a £30,000 investment from West Lothian Leisure. The facility is only the second to open in the area and the first to be covered, one of the few fully indoor courts in Scotland. The Bandeja reports.
Sergio Tansini, chair of West Lothian Leisure’s board, said: “The padel court represents an exciting example of the work that West Lothian Leisure is doing to develop its offering, improving not only sporting provision but also health and wellbeing facilities across the county. I look forward to seeing our community enjoying this facility. If you haven’t tried padel I encourage you to give it a go, it is a fantastic game and accessible for people of all abilities. I also would like to extend our gratitude to West Lothian Council for its ongoing collaboration and support.”
Harry Cartmill, ward councillor for Bathgate, cut the ribbon for the official launch and hailed the arrival of the padel court to the town. He said: “It’s a fantastic facility and I really applaud West Lothian Leisure and Xcite Bathgate for setting the court up here. It’s a little easier than regular tennis. I welcome anything that helps people get active whether it’s young people, or people my age!”
Taster sessions
Bathgate youngsters have already had a chance to try their hand at padel. Primary four pupils from Balbardie Primary School enjoyed taster sessions delivered by Olivia Smart, an LTA Level 3 tennis coach and Level 2 padel coach.
She said: “This is one of the few padel facilities anywhere around here. It’s great to be able to introduce this sport to the community because it’s booming all over the UK and globally. It’s such an accessible sport for everybody – it’s pretty low impact. You can really get into it, especially because it’s indoors.”
Racquets and balls are available to rent. Book online at www.westlothianleisure.com, on the Xcite WLL App or by contacting Xcite Bathgate reception on 01506 237910. 🎾
