A few years ago, a handful of cottagers brought Padel tennis to Muskoka, having experienced the game where it is most popular, in southern Europe.
Rob and Kate Wharton, Padel enthusiasts and longtime Muskoka residents, decided to start a high end North American court production company, “Bounce Padel,” based in Ontario. Today, there are nine courts across Muskoka’s three big lakes, with more in development.
The Muskoka Padel community has grown to nearly 200 members, fostering active lifestyles, and a shared passion for this exciting new activity in Muskoka. This August the group participated in a tournament on seven courts which they treated as a fundraiser for our local hospital.
“The Muskoka Padel tennis community appreciate how hard working and dedicated the team is at our local Bracebridge Hospital and were keen to support it through the group’s philanthropy.” Andrew Sheiner, local cottage owner who brought the community together and spearheaded the fundraiser on behalf of the hospital.”
The group raised a total of $38,841.00 for local health care.
“We are so grateful to the Muskoka Padel community for turning their passion for this sport into support for our hospital. Their generosity not only strengthens local health care but also reflects the incredible spirit of what our community can achieve when we come together, something that truly makes Muskoka special.” Kathryn Devlin, Director of Philanthropy, South Muskoka Hospital Foundation