For this episode, Ben hits the padel courts to speak with Edward Downdall, CEO and Owner of Padel Social House and The Padel Consultants. They are also joined by Gail Emms MBE, former world badminton champion and silver Olympic medallist with Team GB.
Ed and Gail share a passion for the sport, describing it as a combination of tennis, badminton, squash, and table tennis, as well as something unique. Based in the heart of Brackmills Industrial Estate, the Padel Social House not only provides a modern and aesthetic space to play, but also helps to build a community of enthusiasts.
The fastest growing sport in the UK
Gail first discovered the sport ten years ago, when she was asked to play a match against 13-year-old Tia Norton (now a professional padel player). Gail says she quickly went from being bewildered by this new sport to having an incredible time. The duo was told on the spot that they were the first members of Team GB, and she’s loved the sport ever since. She is currently training to be in the GB Over 50s team.
Ed played his first game in 2022 when he was in Qatar working at the World Cup. When he returned to the UK after living for a few years in the Middle East, he was unable to find a local padel club and so resolved to take the matter into his own hands.
The Padel Social House is set to open its doors to the public on 11th April and features 11 doubles courts, a singles court, as well as a physio clinic and areas for shuffleboard and cornhole.
Is padel going to the Olympics?
Gail is often asked whether she thinks padel will become an Olympic sport, but she thinks it is better off without it for now. As a new and upcoming sport, it is still finding its feet and growing organically. Without sufficient coaches and the necessary infrastructure, it risks being ruined by the scale that the Olympics demand.
As Gail puts it, the Olympics need padel more than padel needs the Olympics. However, she tentatively suggests it as a possibility for the 2036 games. If so, Team GB’s star padel athletes are likely going to be the kids who are getting into it now.
Ed and Gail are keen to spread the word about this wonderful sport, which brings together people of all ages and from all walks of life.
You can learn more about Padel Social House. Gail Emms will be hosting this year’s Milton Keynes Education Awards and can be booked for other corporate events by emailing agent@championsukplc.com.
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