At this point, Manchester is very well acquainted with padel, with countless courts opening up around town to accommodate the trendiest new sport. Now, a new padel club is serving up more than just aces by providing free sessions for school kids; introducing Soul Padel in Stockport.
Soul Padel is committed to opening up the game to the diverse communities who might not previously have had the chance to try the sport. Its ‘What’s That Racket?’ youth programme has already introduced the game to hundreds of school kids from across South Manchester at its location in Stockport, which first opened summer of 2024.
Hundreds of pupils from the likes of Cheadle Catholic Junior School have already taken to the Soul Padel court, covering everything from warm-ups to shuttle drills with Soul Padel’s dedicated team of coaches.
Soul Padel has opened its permanent spot in Stockport, adding four new covered courts to the two they already have, all protected by a canopy, along with a clubhouse for players to hang out and relax. But it’s not just the young ones getting in on the action, as Soul Padel has an experienced club team on hand to help all ages and skill levels.
There are even weekly socials at Soul Padel, bringing people together from all walks of life – including Soul Sisters, a women-only meet-up empowering women of all ages to get active, and Soul Timers, social sessions for older players wanting a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Padel began as a creative twist on tennis in Mexico, combining elements of tennis and squash into a fast-paced, easy-to-pick-up game. Since then, it has spread rapidly across Europe – especially in Spain – thanks to its sociable feel and low barrier to entry.
Soul Padel’s loyalty programme, Soul Mates, also launches alongside the new club and lets players earn points every time they play. Players can rack up points and redeem them on rewards like free court time, exclusive t-shirts, and even free play for life when you hit the top tier. The more you play, the more rewards you unlock – plus, all players who use the Soul Mates app get free racket hire, so you can get on the court without any hassle!
On the opening, Mark Hewlett, Founder and CEO of Soul Padel, said: “With the launch of Soul Padel in Stockport, we’re doing more than opening a club – we’re building a home for the next generation of racquet sport stars, no matter where they come from.
“Padel’s booming right now, but for too many young people, especially those from working-class or underrepresented backgrounds, it still feels like a sport that isn’t for them. Whether it’s the cost, lack of confidence, or just not seeing anyone who looks like you on court, there are real barriers that need breaking down.”
You can visit Soul Padel Stockport now, open daily from 7am to 10pm. You can book a session, become a member and find out more here.
📍 Soul Padel, Decathlon, George’s Rd, Stockport, SK4 1DN.