Stockport’s first padel club is set to open with a focus on making the sport more inclusive and accessible for the local community.
Soul Padel, opening June 7, is aiming to introduce more people – particularly young people, women and those from underrepresented backgrounds – to the fast-growing sport.
Originating in Mexico, padel has quickly become one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports.
According to the Lawn Tennis Association the number of Britons playing padel more than trebled from 129,000 in 2023 to 400,000 12 months later.
As part of its outreach the club has already ran sessions for hundreds of local school children through its ‘What’s that Racket?’ youth programme.
Pupils from across South Manchester, including Cheadle Catholic Junior School, have taken to the court for free under the guidance of Soul Padel’s coaching team.
Beyond the schools, the club is also keen to make padel a sport for life.
Weekly ‘Soul Sisters’ sessions aim to encourage women of all ages to get active in a supportive environment while ‘Soul Timers’ welcomes older participants to play socially at their own pace.
Mark Hewlett, founder and CEO of Soul Padel, said: “We’re doing more than opening a club – we’re building a home for the next generation of racket sport stars, no matter where they come from.
“Padel is booming right now, but for too many young people – especially those form working-class or underrepresented backgrounds – it still feels like a sport that isn’t for them.
“Whether its the cost, lack of confidence, or not seeing anyone who looks like you on court, there are real barriers that need breaking down.”
The facility will include six courts, with four covered courts protected by a canopy, plus a clubhouse for players to unwind.
To encourage continued engagement, the club is also introducing a loyalty scheme called ‘Soul Mates’ allowing players to earn points and redeem rewards each time they play.
Organisers hope Soul Padel will become a lasting hub for sport, health and community in Stockport and beyond.
You can find more information at Soul Padel Stockport.
Join the discussion