The importance of federating in padel and its impact on the sport
The creator from Mejora Tu Padel emphasizes the significance of becoming a federated player in padel, especially in Spain where the sport continues to grow rapidly. According to the reviewer, federating is not just a personal choice but a responsibility for those who are passionate about padel. By obtaining a federation license, players contribute to the sport’s official recognition and help padel gain more weight within the broader sports community. This collective effort is crucial for ambitions such as making padel an Olympic sport, as the number of federated players directly influences the sport’s standing with national and international sporting bodies.
Beyond the broader impact, being federated also brings practical benefits. Players gain access to official competitions, insurance coverage during tournaments, and a structured environment that supports the growth of both the sport and individual skills. The reviewer notes that millions of Spaniards play padel, but only a fraction are federated, highlighting the untapped potential for further development.
How to become a federated player and join veteran tournaments
Registering as a federated player is a straightforward process. The channel explains that players can obtain their federation license either through a club—if they are already taking lessons or participating in club activities—or independently as a free agent. Once the license is secured, players can sign up for a variety of competitions throughout the year, including team leagues and individual tournaments specifically for veterans.
The annual federation license fee is typically around 38–40 euros. For those joining later in the year, a reduced rate is often available from September or October, making it accessible for newcomers who decide to participate after the summer. The license not only grants access to competitions but also provides insurance coverage for injuries or accidents during official events.
- Annual license fee: 38–40 euros
- Reduced fee: Available from September–October
- Insurance: Included for official competitions
- Registration: Through clubs or independently
Structure and scheduling of veteran padel tournaments
Veteran tournaments are designed to accommodate players with busy schedules, particularly those balancing work and family commitments. The reviewer points out that most matches are scheduled in the evenings, typically starting from 7 or 8 p.m. When registering, players can specify their availability, such as requesting matches no earlier than 10 p.m. or after a certain hour. This flexibility allows participants to integrate competitive padel into their daily routines without major disruptions.
For those unable to commit to regular weekly leagues, standalone veteran tournaments offer an appealing alternative. These events provide the excitement of competition and the opportunity to meet new players, all within a manageable time frame. The reviewer highlights the social aspect, noting that players often encounter opponents with similar skill levels, making for balanced and engaging matches.
Categories and competition formats for veteran players
The Madrid Padel Federation, as explained in the video, organizes veteran competitions into several age-based categories:
- +35: Players who turn 35 or older during the calendar year
- +45: Players who turn 45 or older during the year
- +55: Players who turn 55 or older during the year
- Promotion: An open category for all ages and skill levels, designed for amateur or less experienced players
This structure ensures that players compete against others in similar age brackets, promoting fairness and enjoyment. The promotion category serves as an entry point for those new to competitive padel or those who prefer a more relaxed environment. The competition system adapts based on the number of participants, sometimes using league formats or knockout rounds to ensure everyone gets ample playtime.
Veteran tournaments also maintain their own ranking systems, separate from absolute (open) rankings, allowing players to track their progress and compete for status within their age group.
First-hand experiences and competitive atmosphere in veteran tournaments
Several participants featured in the video share their impressions of playing in a federated veteran tournament for the first time. One player describes the experience as markedly different from typical club “express” tournaments, noting the satisfaction of playing full matches with gold point rules. This format, where a single decisive point is played at deuce, adds a layer of excitement and pressure, closely mirroring professional competition.
Players appreciate the opportunity to face new opponents and adapt to different playing styles, which helps to sharpen their skills and mental resilience. The reviewer and interviewees agree that the competitive tension and balanced matchups make veteran tournaments both challenging and highly enjoyable. The social aspect is also emphasized, as regular participants often get to know each other, fostering a sense of community within the veteran circuit.
- Full matches with gold point rules increase intensity
- Balanced levels ensure close, engaging games
- Opportunities to meet and learn from new players
- Strong sense of camaraderie among regulars
Additional incentives and the value of federated competition
Beyond the thrill of competition, federated tournaments offer tangible incentives. For example, in some categories, winning a tournament grants free registration for the next event—a small but appreciated reward that encourages continued participation. While there are no cash prizes, the benefits of insurance, official rankings, and the prestige of competing in sanctioned events add substantial value.
The reviewer concludes that federated veteran tournaments are a positive initiative for players seeking structured, meaningful competition beyond casual club play. The experience not only improves individual performance but also supports the broader growth and recognition of padel as a sport. For those considering taking the step, the channel strongly recommends joining the federated circuit to enjoy these unique advantages and contribute to the sport’s future.
