Soul Padel is proud to announce the appointment of David Garrido Garcia, a highly respected figure in the global padel community, as Technical Director. With over 15 years of experience coaching across Europe and the Middle East, David will lead the development of Soul Padel’s coaching methodology, mentor emerging talent, and guide the company’s ambition to create a true centre of excellence for the sport in the UK.
David’s international experience spans leading padel academies and national teams, including his recent role as Technical Director for the World Padel Academy (WPA) in Dubai. At WPA, David designed and implemented the academy’s coaching philosophy and mentored a team of professional coaches delivering training programmes to both elite athletes and grassroots players. He also worked with national squads and top professionals competing in Premier Padel events, while serving as Head Coach for Bahrain’s national padel team.
A Global Leader, Inspired by Soul Padel’s Vision
Originally from Spain, a country where padel is both culturally rooted and highly competitive, David began coaching after an injury ended his early football career. His journey has taken him from Madrid, where he worked at one of Spain’s premier clubs, to leadership roles across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where he helped shape the fast-growing padel scene.
While initially sceptical about the British weather, David was inspired by Soul Padel’s vision and the UK’s strong sporting culture. During a visit in June 2025, he spent time with founders Mark and Tammy Hewlett at Soul Padel’s Stockport club, met the local team and players, and explored Manchester’s rich sporting and football heritage. “The UK is at a pivotal moment for padel,” David said. “Manchester’s passion for sport reminded me why I wanted to be part of this project. Soul Padel’s approach is not just about playing the game, but about building something meaningful and I’m excited to bring my knowledge and experience to help make that happen.”
David will initially remain based in the UAE but will take on his new role through regular visits to the UK and remote support. Alongside refining Soul Padel’s coaching methodology, he will work with Mark Hewlett to develop new club locations and ensure high technical standards across all sites.
Developing the Next Generation with Soul Train
David will play a central role in launching Soul Train, Soul Padel’s apprenticeship programme designed to support 16- and 17-year-olds pursuing careers in padel coaching. The first Soul Train cohort will launch in January 2026 in partnership with the LTA and Coach Core, a national charity using sport and apprenticeships to change the lives of young adults across the UK.
In addition, David will mentor Soul Padel brand ambassador Theo Garton, who is currently training full-time in Spain with Soul Padel’s backing as well as other aspiring professional players, helping to create an academy environment that bridges grassroots participation and elite performance.
“When I first met David, what struck me was not just his experience, but his clear vision for how padel can grow in the UK,” said Mark Hewlett, CEO and Founder of Soul Padel. “He immediately understood what we’re trying to achieve – creating opportunities for young people through programmes like Soul Train, building a real sense of community at our clubs, and developing pathways for players to progress to the very top of the game. Having someone with David’s global expertise guiding us will be transformational, both for our coaches and for the sport itself.”
About David Garrido
A passionate Real Madrid supporter, David is known for his innovative approach to coaching and his ability to inspire players and coaches alike. His career includes leadership roles in Madrid, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where he has been instrumental in developing padel’s infrastructure and talent pathways.
Media Contact:
Mark Hewlett
Email: mark@soulpadel.co.uk
Phone: 07961310078
Website: soulpadel.co.uk
