
Who we are
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New mum returning to sport & work
Finding my way back into sport after my first pregnancy was hard. Nervous to go back to tennis, I looked for something with less impact and where I could make new friends. Padel was perfect. And I can’t wait to get my little one involved as soon as I can! Joining the Smash team allows me to work towards something I am truly passionate about and has helped my wellbeing immensely in this stage of my life. Jessica, Head of Marketing & Communications
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Helping young people is my passion
Working with disadvantaged youngsters over the world gave me a sense of appreciation that has impacted my life ever since. If I’m down, angry, frustrated or sad or any of those negative emotions, I stop and try to think of them and put my whole life into perspective. Valuing what I have at home with my family and children and the opportunity to influence young people is something I’m ever thankful for and I love being able to do that now through padel. Jo, Coach Education Manager
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Building great teams through trust
Trust and commitment are the foundation of my relationship with my wife, as well as having fun. Knowing that we can rely on each other creates a bond that only strengthens with time. That same sense of trust, long-term connection and enjoyment is what I value most in my work—building positive relationships that last, where reliability and honesty create something truly meaningful over time. Carson, Chief Sports Officer
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Part of something bigger
Inclusivity is something I’m really passionate about—it shapes everything I do, both at work and in my personal life. I believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, respected, and treated fairly. When that happens, we create a more positive, supportive society where mental and physical well-being can thrive. Sport has always played a huge role in my life, and that’s why I love padel. It’s the ultimate social sport—fun, welcoming, and perfect for players of all levels. The sense of community and inclusivity it brings is special. My goal is to create spaces where everyone, no matter their background or ability, feels welcome and is part of something bigger. Ben Cox, Assistant Manager, Bicester
Smash Padel Team
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Craig- Centre Manager (Whitstable)
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Alicia - Padel Coach (Whitstable)
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Daniella- Centre Manager (Oxford)
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Gonzalo - Padel Coach (Bicester)
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Guadalupe- Padel coach (Oxford & Bicester)
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Gordon- Junior Academy Manager (Bicester)
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Louisa- Assistant Manager (Oxford)
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Ben- Assistant Manager (Bicester)
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Miguel- Padel Coach & Padel Development Manager
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Edgar- Padel Activator (Bicester)
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Josh - Junior Padel Activator (Bicester)
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Josh- Padel Activator (Bicester)
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Gary - Centre Manager (Bicester)
HQ Team
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Simon Champ - Founder
30 years of experience raising equity and debt finance. Former Founder and CEO of FTSE 250 listed investment trust P2PGI and co-founder of Liberum investment bank.
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Rupert Taylor - CEO
23 years of experience in equity and debt capital markets, both raising finance and investing in assets. Also has experience founding and scaling businesses to exit.
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Carson Russell - Chief Commercial Officer
30+ years in sport including playing first-class rugby alongside a career with Hays PLC. Former CEO of London Scottish RFC and a level 3 qualified RFC coach.
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Marcus Ballyn - Operating Manager
30+ years in the leisure and hospitality industry in UK, India and the Middle East. Played top level in a number of sports and represented England in hockey.
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Jessica Windsor - Marketing & Communications
10+ years of experience in marketing, communications and PR in the UK & Asia. Contact: jessica@smashpadel.co
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Miguel Caramalho - Padel Development Manager
Master's Degree in Sports Training. 7+ years of coaching, recognised by the Portuguese Padel Federation and an active member of the British Padel Coaches Association.
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Patrick Neville - Real Estate
30+ years as a surveyor, adding finance and restructuring skills at RBS and DTZ, before founding RED in 2012 and serving as an outsourced real estate function to numerous corporates.
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Jo Buchanan Smith - NED & Coach Education Manager
20+ years as a consultant to governing bodies developing infrastructure at sporting events. Former UK Development officer for Playtomic.
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JJ Tait - NED
Established the first Padel focused business in Scotland in 2014. 12 years experience managing Edinburgh Sports & Padel club.