A padel club in St Helens has introduced weekly social sessions aimed at players aged over 50, seeking to make the sport more inclusive. The initiative, called Soul Timers, runs every Wednesday morning and has already gained popularity among local enthusiasts. Organizers hope it will encourage broader participation in padel among older adults.
Soul Padel St Helens has launched Soul Timers, a series of relaxed padel sessions designed for individuals over 50 who are familiar with the basics of the sport. Held every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to midday, these gatherings emphasize social interaction and friendly match play in a supportive setting.
Mark Hewlett, the CEO and founder of Soul Padel, highlighted the group's purpose: "Soul Timers is about creating a space where people feel they belong. If you know the basics of padel and enjoy playing with others, this session is designed for you. It’s social, supportive and full of energy, and it shows that padel really can be a game you enjoy at any stage of life."
The sessions have quickly attracted participants, building on St Helens' existing community of more than 130 regular players aged over 50. Organizers note that newcomers to padel should first book an introductory session before joining. This approach aims to lower barriers, as only an estimated 10 to 20 percent of the UK's padel players are over 50, despite 38 percent of the population falling into that age group.
Similar sessions at Soul Padel's Stockport venue have filled multiple courts and become a midweek staple, suggesting potential for growth in St Helens. The format is informal, featuring simple court rotations, casual games, and ample time for socializing. Many attendees arrive solo and soon integrate into the group, underscoring padel's appeal as a communal activity.
By fostering such environments, Soul Padel seeks to reflect the wider population's demographics and introduce more people to the sport in a low-pressure way.