By Evergreen Podcasts
The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.
In the latest episode of "The Joy of Padel," host Minter Dial sits down with Alex Inglot, a prominent figure in the world of padel and sports business. The conversation delves into Alex's fascinating journey from tennis and volleyball to becoming a key player in the padel community and the business of sports.
From Tennis to Volleyball
Alex Inglot's sporting journey began with tennis, a sport he picked up in his early teens. Despite his competitive spirit, he found himself outpaced by his younger brother, Dom, who started playing tennis at a much younger age. This sibling rivalry fuelled Alex's passion for sports, but it was volleyball that eventually captured his interest. Encouraged by his Polish maths teacher, Alex transitioned to volleyball, where he trained with top UK teams and played at the highest level until his late twenties.
The Shift to Padel
After a shoulder injury forced him to retire from professional volleyball, Alex dabbled in various sports but found a new passion in padel, thanks to his brother's influence. He started playing padel in early 2023 and quickly became engrossed in the sport. His background in tennis and volleyball provided a solid foundation, making him a formidable player on the padel court.
A Career in Sports Business
Alex's professional journey is as impressive as his sporting career. He began as a corporate lawyer with aspirations of moving into sports law and administration. His career took off in 2009 when he entered the sports industry, working in communications and international relations around the Olympic space. He later joined Sportradar, a leading company in sports data, betting, streaming, and integrity. In 2018, Alex became a player representative on the ATP executive board, a role he describes as a "job of a lifetime." Currently, he serves as the commissioner of one of the largest esports leagues, a position that has taken him to Cologne for the IEM Cologne quarterfinals.
The Business of Padel
The conversation shifts to the business side of padel, where Alex shares his insights on the sport's growth and the challenges it faces. He highlights the enthusiasm and opportunities within the padel community but also warns of the difficulties in distinguishing credible operators from those looking for short-term gains. Alex emphasises the importance of due diligence and the need for a balanced approach to ensure the sport's sustainable growth.
The Role of Technology
One of the key points Alex discusses is the role of technology in padel. He notes that the sport has embraced technology, particularly in matchmaking and user experience, making it easier for players to find partners and enjoy the game. This tech-savvy approach has been instrumental in padel's rapid growth and popularity.
The Social Aspect of Padel
Alex also touches on the social nature of padel, which he believes is one of its strongest selling points. The sport's inherent sociability, combined with its accessibility, makes it appealing to a wide range of players. This social aspect is deeply embedded in the sport's DNA, particularly in countries like Spain and Argentina, where padel has a rich history.
All the Angles Podcast
Towards the end of the episode, Alex talks about his podcast, "All the Angles," which focuses on the business of padel. Sponsored by Hexagon Cup, the podcast aims to bridge the gap between the legacy padel markets in Spain and Argentina and the emerging markets in Scandinavia, the Middle East, the UK, and the US. Alex's goal is to provide valuable insights and perspectives from industry leaders, helping listeners navigate the evolving landscape of padel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- Overview of Rafa's achievements, including his ranking as number two in Britain under the LTA rating system and his success in various tournaments.
Rafa Vega's Background and Career
- Rafa discusses his current roles at Harvard Club Chelsea and involvement in padel events.
- His journey from being a competitive tennis player to transitioning into padel at age 15.
Transition from Tennis to Padel
- Rafa shares his experience of playing tennis from a young age and how he started playing padel for fun.
- The significant shift in focus to padel after moving to London in 2018.
Challenges of Balancing Coaching and Playing
- The difficulty of maintaining a high level of play while coaching beginners.
- The importance of playing with skilled partners to stay sharp.
Differences Between Tennis and Padel
- Rafa explains the technical differences between tennis and padel, particularly the swing and playing style.
- The challenges and benefits of transitioning skills from tennis to padel.
Social and Fun Aspects of Padel
- Padel's appeal in corporate events and team-building activities.
- The social and enjoyable nature of padel compared to the more competitive and solitary nature of tennis.
Playing Style and Strategy
- Discussion on the importance of adapting playing styles and strategies in padel.
- Rafa's preference for playing at the net and his approach to different game situations.
Coaching Insights and Advice
- Tips for tennis players transitioning to padel, including the importance of patience and using the glass walls effectively.
- The significance of communication and having a good relationship with your playing partner.
Involvement in Hexagon Cup
- Rafa's positive experience working at the Hexagon Cup and the unique team-based format of the event.
- The social aspect of the event, including interactions with celebrities and fans.
Future of Padel in the UK
- The challenges of developing top-level padel players in the UK due to factors like Brexit and the need for more qualified coaches.
- The importance of investing in junior players to grow the sport.
Personal Reflections and Anecdotes
- Rafa shares personal stories and funny moments from his padel career.
- The importance of enjoying the game and the camaraderie it brings.
Conclusion
- Minter Dial expresses his appreciation for Rafa's insights and looks forward to future interactions and matches.
- Rafa's final thoughts on the joy of playing padel and the importance of having fun both on and off the court.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome and Introduction
- Minter Dial welcomes Pablo Carro, co-founder of Playtomic.
- Discussion about Playtomic's impact and Pablo's personal background.
Personal Background and Passion for Padel
- Pablo Carro shares his journey from tennis to padel.
- Reflects on his early experiences with padel in 1995 and his transition to making it his profession.
Challenges and Evolution of Tennis and Padel
- Discussion on the transformation needed in the tennis industry.
- Pablo highlights the need for tennis to adapt to new generations and become more digitized.
Playtomic's Origin and Mission
- Playtomic was launched in 2017 to digitize the racket sports industry.
- The app aims to facilitate the social joy of racket sports, making it easier for players to book courts and find matches.
User Experience and Growth
- Playtomic's success in over 50 countries with more than 5000 clubs and a million active players per month.
- The importance of focusing on what the company does well and not overextending into other sports.
Leveling System and Player Matching
- Challenges of creating an accurate leveling system for players.
- The algorithm's role in ensuring fair and enjoyable matches.
Global Padel Report with PwC
- Collaboration with PwC to produce a comprehensive report on the state of padel.
- Insights into club management, player behavior, and the industry's growth.
Surprises and Market Trends
- Unexpected growth in the UK and slower than anticipated growth in Germany.
- The potential for significant expansion in the US market.
Cultural Aspects of Padel
- The universal appeal of padel's social and fun aspects.
- The importance of communication on the court and how it varies by region.
Future of Padel and Playtomic
- Playtomic's focus on racket sports and the potential for future growth.
- The ongoing mission to enhance the social joy of racket sports globally.
Closing Remarks
- Pablo Carro shares how to find Playtomic and download the global padel report.
- Encourages listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn for further engagement.
Contact Information
- Download Playtomic from the Apple Store or Google Play.
- Find the global padel report via Google or the provided show link.
- Connect with Pablo Carro on LinkedIn.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome and Introduction
- Minter Dial welcomes back Nallé Grinda, the only guest to appear twice on the show.
- Discussion about their shared passion for padel and Nallé’s current activities in Miami.
Current Activities and Upcoming Events
- Nallé shares his plans to travel to Europe for vacation and padel-related events.
- Highlights a charitable event in Saint Tropez featuring top padel players.
Insights from the Playtomic 2024 Report
- Minter and Nallé discuss the Playtomic 2024 report on padel.
- Surprising statistics: 500 padel courts in the U.S. and high Google search interest.
- Nallé notes the longer time to market in the U.S. compared to Europe.
Growth of Padel in France and the U.S.
- France emerging as a strong market for padel despite initial regulatory challenges.
- Nallé’s experiences with building padel clubs in Miami and Boca Raton.
- Challenges with permits and environmental studies in the U.S.
PadelX Launch and Expansion
- PadelX opened on April 1, 2024, with immediate success.
- Plans for expansion with new clubs in Boca Raton and Palm Beach.
- Emphasis on creating a connected and comfortable club environment.
Creating a Community and Club Culture
- Importance of location, quality installations, and thoughtful design.
- Role of events and memberships in fostering a sense of belonging.
- PadelX’s unique recycling program for plastic emissions.
Padel as a Lifestyle and Future Plans
- Padel’s growing influence on travel and vacation plans.
- Nallé’s vision for padel holidays and partnerships with hotels.
- Comparison to the rise of golf as a travel activity in the past.
Professional Padel Landscape
- Discussion on the evolving professional padel scene with multiple tours.
- Potential for consolidation and growth in the sport.
- Insights on the upcoming World Championships in Doha.
Final Thoughts and Contact Information
- Nallé shares ways to connect with PadelX through Instagram, their website, or visiting the club in Miami.
- Encouragement for listeners to experience the community and camaraderie at PadelX.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the Joy of Padel podcast, I sit down with Scott Reddick, a passionate entrepreneur and padel enthusiast, at the P1 Padel Club in Las Vegas. Scott shares his journey from a competitive tennis background to discovering and falling in love with padel. He discusses the challenges and rewards of managing the P1 Padel Club, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all players. Scott also touches on the club's efforts to grow the sport in the U.S., including hosting major tournaments and engaging with the local community. This episode offers insights into the burgeoning padel scene and the dedication required to foster its growth.
If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or, better yet, an audio file to [email protected]. You can always comment on the post with the full show notes (and transcript) on minterdial.com. And if you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can follow the Joy of Padel on social: @joyofpadel on X/Twitter and Instagram. There's also a YouTube page.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:02:54 - Scott Reddick's Background and Passion for Adventure
00:04:54 - Discovering Padel and Initial Experience
00:06:54 - The Addictive Nature of Padel
00:08:54 - Transitioning from Tennis to Padel
00:10:54 - Learning and Improving in Padel
00:12:54 - Starting P1 Padel Club in Las Vegas
00:14:54 - Challenges and Strategies for Club Management
00:16:54 - Marketing and Attracting New Customers
00:18:54 - Lessons Learned in the First Year
00:20:54 - Creating a Welcoming Club Culture
00:22:54 - Membership Models and Customer Engagement
00:24:54 - Adapting to Las Vegas Weather
00:26:54 - Hosting USPA Major Tournament
00:28:54 - Watching Professional Padel
00:30:54 - Padel vs. Pickleball
00:32:54 - Future Plans for P1 Padel Club Expansion
00:34:54 - Scott Reddick's Padel Game and Joyful Moments
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Joy of Padel with David Garcia
Welcome and Introduction
- Host Minter Dial welcomes David Garcia to the show.
- David Garcia is introduced as a lifelong padel player and current International Event Manager and director at M3 Padel Academy.
David Garcia's Background
- David shares his journey in padel, starting at the age of four.
- He discusses his early years playing in his neighborhood and his progression to professional padel.
- Mentions notable players from his neighborhood who also became professional padel players, including Ale Galan and Alba Galan.
David's Playing Style
- David describes his playing style as fast and competitive, likening himself to a fox.
- He talks about his physical attributes and how he compensates for not being tall or strong.
- Discussion on his favorite shot, the "Bajada de pared," and his approach to different shots in padel.
Evolution of Padel Techniques
- Minter and David discuss the evolution of padel techniques and the introduction of new shots.
- David explains the importance of adapting one's game to the team and the match situation.
Coaching at M3 Padel Academy
- David talks about his role at M3 Padel Academy and the academy's growth.
- M3 Padel Academy's methodology and structured training programs are highlighted.
- The academy's upcoming new facility with 18 indoor courts is mentioned.
Training Methodology and Coach Consistency
- Importance of unified training methods and consistent coaching across the academy.
- David explains how M3 ensures all coaches deliver the same high-quality training.
- Discussion on the challenges of maintaining consistency while allowing individual coach personalities to shine.
Client Programs and International Reach
- Overview of M3 Padel Academy's client base, including school students, competition players, and professional players.
- The academy's international training weeks and collaborations with clubs worldwide.
- Emphasis on the need for coaches to speak multiple languages due to the global nature of padel.
Challenges in Coaching and Padel Culture
- David discusses the difficulty of finding and training good padel coaches.
- The importance of experience and making mistakes in becoming a good coach.
- Insights into the culture of padel and the importance of teamwork and communication on the court.
Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
- David shares a funny anecdote from his competitive days involving a heated match and a partner throwing opponents' bags over the fence.
- Reflections on the importance of sportsmanship and dealing with imperfect calls in padel.
Closing and Contact Information
- Minter Dial thanks David Garcia for joining the show.
- Information on how to follow David Garcia and M3 Padel Academy on social media.
- Invitation to visit the new M3 Padel Academy facility in Madrid.
Follow David Garcia and M3 Padel Academy
- Instagram: @davidgcampospadel
- M3 Padel Academy: https://www.m3padelacademy.com
00:00:03: Introduction and Welcome
00:00:18: David Garcia's Background and Early Days in Padel
00:01:32: Pure Padel Player Journey
00:03:05: Style of Play and Animal Comparison
00:06:00: Favorite Shot - Bajada
00:07:54: Evolution of Padel Shots
00:09:11: Decision Making in Padel
00:11:03: Training with Top Players
00:12:03: Shot Improvement - Forehand
00:14:30: Current Role at M3 Padel Academy
00:16:08: Coaching System and Methodology
00:18:43: Importance of Consistency in Coaching
00:20:14: Personality in Coaching
00:22:14: Types of Clients and Programs at M3
00:24:06: Language Skills of Coaches
00:25:38: Training Coaches and Padel Culture
00:27:19: Learning from Mistakes
00:29:36: Importance of Teamwork in Padel
00:32:29: Communication and Team Dynamics
00:34:03: Efficiency in Play and Technique
00:35:42: Psychological Aspects of Top Players
00:37:18: Funny Anecdote from Padel Matches
00:39:40: Sportsmanship and Honesty in Padel
00:40:09: Closing Remarks and How to Follow David Garcia and M3 Padel Academy
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join us as we explore the enthralling padel journey of Enrique Buenaventura, a sports aficionado turned padel entrepreneur. Enrique shares insights from his multifaceted experience in the sport and business of padel, including his transition from tennis to padel at the age of twelve. With padel's burgeoning popularity, he discusses the challenges and thrills of keeping the joy in the game while navigating its commercial landscape. Enrique also delves into the inception of the Hexagon Cup, an innovative international team event designed to stoke the competitive spirit and broaden padel's appeal across the globe. This episode is a deep dive into the strategic evolution of padel, the significance of inclusivity in the sport, and the delicate balance between preserving the essence of the game and embracing its dynamic future.
00:00:00 - Enrique Buenaventura has adventured into the world of padel
00:07:45 - Enrique prefers the old-fashioned padel because it's more tactical
00:09:02 - He founded Hexagon Cup to promote padel internationally
00:15:08 - Rafa Nadal Academy launches padel tour with seven events in Spain
00:19:09 - The Hexagon tournament features six teams with six players per team
00:23:40 - There was a lot of mixed feelings about the debut
00:29:33 - Already announced 2025 Hexagon Cup
00:32:55 - Hexagon focuses on fan experience, engagement with fans, having celebrities involved
00:35:58 - Enrique discusses his favorite shot and ways to improve in padel tennis
00:41:02 - What sort of animal are you on the court, Enrique?
If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or, better yet, an audio file to [email protected]. You can always comment on the post with the full show notes (and transcript) on minterdial.com. And if you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can follow the Joy of Padel on social: @joyofpadel on X/Twitter and Instagram. There's also a YouTube page.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join us as we welcome the dynamic Nico Agritelley, a homegrown talent from Dallas, Texas, who has taken the American padel scene by storm. A former college tennis player turned padel enthusiast, Nico shares his candid story of trading in his finance career for the love of padel, a decision that has propelled him to the top ranks in the US. Dive into his transformative journey from tennis courts to padel courts, the challenges of finding the right competition stateside, and his ambitious leap into professional padel.
Nico opens up about the intricacies of transitioning from tennis to padel, the importance of chemistry with a partner both on and off the court, and the strategies that have shaped his aggressive playstyle. He also reflects on the invaluable lessons learned from defeats and the joy of continual improvement in a sport that has taken him around the globe.
As padel gains momentum in the US, Nico discusses the evolution of the Professional Padel League (PPL), his experiences with top international players, and the future of the sport in America. His message is simple: Try padel. You're bound to fall in love with it.
If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or, better yet, an audio file to [email protected]. You can always comment on the post with the full show notes (and transcript) on minterdial.com. And if you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can follow the Joy of Padel on social: @joyofpadel on X/Twitter and Instagram. There's also a YouTube page.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we delve into the world of Saana Saarteinen, Finland's top padel talent, who has gracefully transitioned from tennis to mastering the courts of padel. At 31, Saana has not only embraced the sport but has made it a lifestyle since 2019. She recounts the initial switch from tennis, spurred by a friend's invitation to a tournament, and the subsequent journey to becoming Finland's number one. Saana shares the nuances of adapting tennis skills to padel, her strategic approach to the game, and the importance of letting the ball pass—a pivotal lesson for tennis converts.
If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or, better yet, an audio file to [email protected]. You can always comment on the post with the full show notes (and transcript) on minterdial.com. And if you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can follow the Joy of Padel on social: @joyofpadel on X/Twitter and Instagram. There's also a YouTube page.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The effervescent Nikhil Mohindra is a rising star in the world of padel and a beacon of inspiration for players across the globe. As a padel player for Team GB and the newly appointed ambassador for Padel India, Nikhil shares his unique journey into the sport, his battle with asthma on the court, and his unwavering dedication to training. From his initial indifference to padel at age 12 to his full-blown love affair with the game at 17, Nikhil's story is a testament to finding one's passion despite the odds.
If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or, better yet, an audio file to [email protected]. You can always comment on the post with the full show notes (and transcript) on minterdial.com. And if you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can follow the Joy of Padel on social: @joyofpadel on X/Twitter and Instagram. There's also a YouTube page.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.
1,289 Listeners
29,658 Listeners
1,001 Listeners
321 Listeners
4 Listeners
3,015 Listeners
0 Listeners