To raise $38,841 for the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation, a dedicated group of padel tennis players gathered across Muskoka’s picturesque lakes in August. The project was a component in a community-driven competition run by Muskoka Padel, a rapidly expanding group with about 200 members.
Three lakes, seven courts, and a common objective
The fundraiser competition was held on seven courts located among Muskoka’s three main lakes: Muskoka, Joseph, and Rougeau. Motivated by a common objective to improve healthcare services in their area, players of different skill levels took part. Along with sporting zeal, the event demonstrated a strong dedication to communal welfare.
The hospital foundation’s expression of appreciation
The South Muskoka Hospital Foundation’s Director of Philanthropy, Kathryn Devlin, commended the effort. She expressed her gratitude to the Muskoka Padel community for leveraging their love of the sport to support our hospital. “Their generosity not only supports local healthcare but also exemplifies the amazing potential of our community when we band together.”
From the shores of Muskoka to southern Europe
Only a few years ago, a group of cottagers who had learned about padel tennis while visiting in southern Europe brought it to Muskoka. Since then, it has grown into a thriving neighborhood movement that combines charity and leisure.
Bounce Padel provides impetus and infrastructure.
Longtime locals and ardent players Rob and Kate Wharton founded Bounce Padel, a posh court production firm in North America. Their efforts have contributed to Muskoka’s establishment as a Padel tennis hotspot in Canada, with nine courts already in place throughout the area and more planned.
The fundraiser is propelled ahead by the spirit of community.
One of the event’s main organizers, local cottager Andrew Sheiner, highlighted the purpose of the fundraising. “The Muskoka Padel tennis community was eager to support the team through the group’s philanthropy because they recognize how committed and hardworking they are at our local Bracebridge Hospital,” he said.
This project exemplifies a developing trend in Muskoka: leveraging community involvement and sport to promote significant change. The Muskoka Padel community remains a potent force for good thanks to its strong leadership, growing infrastructure, and common goal.