Stuart Dallas opens Optimum Padel indoor centre in Cross Green
Padel has been one of the fastest-growing sports in Leeds, and one of the city's newest venues comes with a familiar name attached. Former Leeds United midfielder Stuart Dallas is part of the team behind Optimum Padel, an indoor club in Cross Green.
Dallas, who is listed as executive director, is joined by former Yorkshire tennis champion Mike Tolman, bringing together experience from two very different sporting worlds. Their combined background gives the club a strong grounding in both elite sport and racket skills.
The club's first site is at Unit 4, Cross Green Vale. Inside, eight indoor courts are laid with blue turf beneath a 10.5-metre roof, giving players plenty of height for lobs and smashes whatever the weather outside.
Off court, there is a heated social hub serving coffee, drinks and snacks, along with changing rooms and showers. It is the kind of space where players can linger after a match, which is a big part of padel's sociable appeal.
Community sits at the heart of the plan. The team has said Optimum Padel will have a strong focus on community, coaching and wellbeing, with coaching available for every level from first-time players to experienced competitors.
Junior development is a particular priority, which should help introduce a new generation of Leeds youngsters to a sport that is quick to learn and great fun to play.
The venue was set to open on 27 March, and by later in 2026 courts were being booked through the Playtomic app, showing the club up and running. For the east of the city, it adds a sizeable new indoor facility at a time when demand for courts has been growing quickly.
For anyone curious about padel, an indoor centre like this is an easy place to start. Games are usually played in doubles, the rules are simple, and the enclosed courts keep rallies going longer than many newcomers expect.
Courts at Optimum Padel can be booked through Playtomic, where players can check availability and find out about coaching sessions.