Sector-first collaboration sees launch of Soul Padel on Campus, establishing a new model for padel in higher education.
In a landmark moment for the UK’s fastest-growing sport, Loughborough University has partnered with Soul Padel to officially open its first Soul Padel on Campus facility—setting a new standard for how padel can be integrated into higher education, community sport and performance development.
The launch event, held on Wednesday 26 March, brought together leaders from Loughborough University, local government, the LTA, and Soul Padel. It featured opening remarks from Jo Maher, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Sport and Professor of Practice in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, and Mark Hewlett, CEO and Founder of Soul Padel. Both speakers underlined the importance of collaboration in making padel an accessible, engaging and impactful sport across the UK.
As part of the celebration, invited attendees experienced padel first-hand, followed by an exhibition match led by GB player and Soul Padel ambassador Theo Garton. Alongside Loughborough University players, Garton showcased the speed, skill and energy of high-level padel, inspiring the next generation of student athletes and sport professionals.
The day also included student-led content creation, supported by Soul Padel brand partner Reflo—a sustainable performance wear brand known for turning recycled single-use plastics into high-quality apparel. The competition winner, Loughborough student Vigneshraj Mohanraj, was recognised for his compelling digital storytelling and passion for padel.
“This partnership represents an important step forward not just for Soul Padel, but for the future of the sport in the UK,” said Mark Hewlett. “Loughborough University has long been the benchmark for sporting excellence in higher education, and to work together on our first Soul Padel on Campus site is hugely significant. It’s a model that puts accessibility, performance and community at its core—and we’re already seeing interest from other universities looking to replicate what we’ve built here.”
With padel booming across Europe and gaining momentum in the UK, this collaboration positions Loughborough University as a pioneer in integrating the sport into the academic and campus experience. The new courts offer a scalable model for blending student recreation, athlete development, and inclusive community access.
With padel booming across Europe and gaining momentum in the UK, this collaboration positions Loughborough University as a pioneer in integrating the sport into the academic and campus experience. The new courts offer a scalable model for blending student recreation, athlete development, and inclusive community access.
Soul Padel continues to expand its network, with a vision to bring padel to schools, universities, and communities nationwide—connecting people through movement, teamwork, and shared purpose.
About Soul Padel
Soul Padel is a community-first padel brand on a mission to make the sport accessible to everyone. Through innovative court installations, strategic partnerships, and a strong focus on wellbeing, Soul Padel champions inclusivity, sustainability, and social connection. With a vision to build a national network of padel hubs, Soul Padel invites players of all backgrounds to meet, play and connect.
For media enquiries, interviews, or images, please contact:
Mark Hewlett
Email: mark@soulpadel.co.uk
Phone: 07961310078
Website: soulpadel.co.uk
