Smash Padel Whitstable.

Coach / Assistant Manager, Whitstable

Coach, Whitstable

I first picked up a padel racket in 2006 while attending a tennis academy in Spain. At the time, I played only occasionally and purely for fun—without fully understanding the rules. Nearly two years ago, I reconnected with an old school friend at a yoga class. She mentioned that her brother was looking for more people to play with, so I joined them and soon began playing regularly in Cardiff.

As a coach, I believe every player is unique, just as every ball that comes off a racket is different. There is no single tip, technique or coaching method that works for everyone, so I enjoy finding the approach that helps each individual player progress. It is incredibly rewarding to watch someone gradually develop a new shot, see the moment it finally clicks, and witness the motivation that follows once they have added it to their game.

I’m always impressed when one of the Whitstable Academy players constructs a brilliant point or finds their flow on court. Even more rewarding, though, is seeing how they respond when things are not going their way—staying composed, digging in and finding a way to grind out a win through resilience and determination.

Away from the court, you’ll most likely find me trail running, relaxing in the sauna on Whitstable Beach or struggling with product-choice paralysis in the supermarket. My dream daytime setting for padel would be somewhere surrounded by mountains—ideally the Dolomites in Italy. At night, it would have to be Tokyo, playing amid its electric atmosphere, neon lights and towering skyscrapers.

Qualifications

Current FIP Padel Ranking - #2907

LTA Level 2 coaching Qualification in progress

LTA Qualified Padel Referee

Favourite shot

My favourite padel shot is the Chancletazo as it is a shot that when you time it well and connect with it at the right height it is almost impossible to return and if you blink you can miss it. (It sounds great too)

Coaching catchphrase

"Lock in"

General Manager, Whitstable

Centre Support & Activator, Whitstable

I first got into padel two years ago, playing with my family. I quickly fell in love with the sport and began playing more regularly with friends. Before I knew it, I was coaching—helping others develop their skills, build their confidence and discover how enjoyable the game can be.

If I could play padel anywhere in the world, it would have to be Spain. The sport is hugely popular there, and I’d love to experience the padel culture, watch local players in action and see how the game differs from what we’re used to here.

Away from padel, you’ll most likely find me on the cricket pitch. Cricket is another sport I’m passionate about, and it keeps me busy for most of the week.

Qualifications

Padel activator. I am also about to start doing my level 2 padel coaching once I start at university.

Favourite shot

My favourite padel shot has to be the tap out, there is something amazing about this shot that makes you feel great when you hit one.

Coaching catchphrase

'Do boring things with excellence'

Coach / Centre Support, Whitstable

I started out as a tennis coach and fell into padel, headfirst. What I enjoy most about coaching is meeting people, helping them have fun on court and watching them progress. Outside of padel you'll find me in the sea.

Qualifications

LTA Padel Instructor (Level 2), LTA Accredited+.

Favourite shot

Bandeja because it’s unique and difficult.

Coaching catchphrase

'Bat back.'

Coach, Whitstable

I first tried padel after seeing my brother start playing in February. I thought I’d give it a go myself and have been hooked ever since. What I enjoy most about coaching is helping people grow in confidence and achieve goals they may not have believed were possible.

Away from padel, you’ll most likely find me on a photography shoot, in the gym or playing football. If I could play anywhere in the world, it would be somewhere in Spain.

My friends and colleagues would describe me as friendly, funny and frequently distracted.