COACHING MASTERCLASS

Padel facility operator, Surge Padel, aims to establish its Harrogate site as a centre of excellence for the sport. As part of the plans, Surge invited renowned coach Mauri Andrini to host a three-day elite coaching course at the site

In May, Surge Padel hosted internationally-renowned coach Mauri Andrini, founder of Hello Padel Academy, at its Surge Padel Harrogate site. Andrini delivered the Hello Padel Bronze Coaching Certificate during a three-day course that brought together aspiring and experienced coaches from across the UK and marked a major milestone in the ongoing development of padel in Britain. “The event placed Surge Harrogate firmly at the heart of British padel’s coaching evolution,” Said Rich Wingfield, CEO of Surge Padel. “It underscored the importance of investing in coach education as a foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.”

Laying the Foundations

As padel continues its explosive rise in popularity across the UK, the need for skilled and qualified coaches has never been greater. According to Surge, welcoming Mauri Andrini – one of the sport’s most respected educators – was a strategic move to help shape the next generation of British coaches.

The Bronze Course delivered by Andrini offered an intensive yet accessible entry point into structured coach development. Participants gained early access to the Hello Padel platform four weeks before the course began and will retain that access for a full year afterward, supporting continuous learning. Throughout the weekend, coaches were guided through technical fundamentals, tactical principles, and best-practice coaching methodologies – delivered in Mauri’s trademark high-energy, engaging style. For some, it marked the start of their formal coaching journey. For others, it was a chance to refine their craft and deepen their impact on court. “Importantly, the Bronze certification process doesn’t end with the course itself,” Wingfield says. “All attendees must now complete a rigorous practical assessment, judged by the Hello Padel tutor judged by the Hello Padel tutor team based in Barcelona. Feedback and the opportunity to retake the exam are provided, with the Silver Certification available as the next step for those looking to expand their tactical and strategic coaching expertise.”

Raising standards, inspiring confidence

The real impact of the Bronze Course, Wingfield says, will be felt on court – by players of all levels. With better coaching comes better sessions, more technical skill development, and a stronger sense of community for everyone involved in the game.

“Whether someone is brand new to padel or pushing for tournament success, having access to educated, passionate coaches makes all the difference,” Wingfield adds. “The coaches who trained under Mauri this weekend will now go on to elevate standards not just at Surge Harrogate, but at clubs across the UK.

“This aligns perfectly with Surge Padel’s long-term vision: to ensure that every player, regardless of experience, has a clear, supported pathway to grow their game in a structured, fun, and professionally delivered environment.”

Powering grassroots growth

Another major focus of the weekend for Surge Padel was the long-term impact the wave of trained coaches will have on youth development. With more qualified coaches now active, clubs like Surge Harrogate will be better equipped to deliver kids’camps, school programmes and beginner sessions that introduce the sport to younger players.

The event placed Surge Harrogate firmly at the heart of British padel’s coaching evolution

“Developing strong grassroots programmes is vital for growing participation and securing a sustainable future for the sport,” Wingfield says. “This Bronze Certification event was a crucial step in making sure the coaches leading these sessions are not just enthusiastic, but also professionally prepared to nurture the next generation of players.”

The training course is part of Surge Padel Harrogate’s strategy to establish itself as a centre of excellence for padel in the North of England. Hosting Mauri Andrini and delivering the Hello Padel Bronze Course has no doubt reinforced its reputation as a leader in coaching development and innovation.

“As the dust settles after an inspiring and action-packed weekend, the legacy is already clear: more great coaches, more confident players, and a brighter, stronger future for British padel,” Wingfield says.