Manhattan Residents Embrace Padel, New Jersey’s Trendy Racquet Sport
New Yorkers are increasingly traveling to New Jersey to participate in padel, a fast-paced racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. This trend has garnered attention as residents of Manhattan seek out facilities that offer both quality play and comprehensive amenities, often finding themselves making the journey across the Hudson River.
For Jay Sawhney, a racquet sport enthusiast residing on New York’s Upper West Side, the appeal of padel prompted regular trips to Cresskill, New Jersey. “Although I live in the city, Cresskill is an easy drive,” Sawhney stated. “Even with a bit of traffic, the experience is more than worth the trip.” The facility he frequents, Padel United, offers an expansive space of 38,000 square feet, significantly larger than typical Manhattan venues.
Rising Popularity and Community Engagement
Padel is gaining traction globally, boasting over 30 million players. This surge in popularity has led to the establishment of the Pro Padel League in 2023, featuring teams from major cities such as New York, Miami, and Las Vegas. Despite the presence of seven registered padel clubs in New York, including several in Brooklyn and East Hampton, players like Sawhney prioritize the community feel and facilities available at Padel United, which includes a spa and yoga classes.
“Since I started playing here, I’ve seen improvements in my sleep, energy, and overall performance,” he added. The emphasis on community is a significant draw for many players, allowing them to connect outside the confines of the city.
Another Upper West Side resident, Lisa Merkatz, was initially drawn to the sport through her son’s enthusiasm. As a lifelong racquet sport lover, she quickly found herself captivated by the amenities at Padel United, which includes multiple indoor courts and wellness facilities. “From the very first lesson, I knew this was my sport,” Merkatz remarked, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere of the club.
The drive to New Jersey, she noted, does not deter her from attending regularly. “The commute? Honestly, it’s no different from heading downtown or across town in Manhattan,” she said, emphasizing the reasonable toll costs compared to city congestion pricing.
Affordable Membership and Lifestyle Benefits
For those considering making the trip, the cost of membership at Padel United is appealing. An all-access membership starts at $399 per month, which includes access to clinics, complimentary lessons, and a variety of wellness classes. Jonathan Cherki, another Upper West Side player, echoed the sentiment that the drive is worthwhile. “While there are a few places to play padel in NYC, I love escaping the hustle of the city,” he stated, noting the friendships he has formed and the improvements in his skills since joining.
Merkatz described Padel United as her “personal downtime,” a place where she can unwind and enjoy the sport without the pressures of city life. “It makes it possible for me to play without stress — and for me, it’s absolutely worth the trip,” she said.
As the sport continues to expand in popularity, Jonathan Krieger, CEO of Padel United, indicated plans for additional locations in Westchester, Long Island, and Connecticut. With such growth, the appeal of padel as a recreational outlet for New Yorkers is likely to increase, fostering a sense of community and well-being among players seeking both health benefits and social connections.
In a bustling world where making new friends can be challenging, many players express gratitude for the diverse and welcoming community they have found at these clubs, reinforcing the notion that sports can create meaningful connections beyond the court.
