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Queen’s College, Taunton is proud to announce a new partnership with Smash Padel, which will bring six state-of-the-art panoramic padel courts to our campus. These all-weather, fully covered facilities will not only elevate our sports provision but will also be open to the local community throughout the year – a first for the Taunton area.
Kim Dawkins, Bursar at Queen’s College, commented:
“This is a major investment in both our school and our local community. With no existing padel courts in the region and a growing appetite for the sport, we’re excited to be leading the way. These new padel courts, delivered in partnership with Smash Padel, will provide our pupils and the wider public with access to a fantastic sport in a world-class environment.”
Queen’s pupils will have unique opportunities to learn and play padel on-site, with the courts fully integrated into PE lessons, co-curricular activities and performance training. Whether pupils are trying padel for the first time or developing advanced skills, they will benefit from high-quality coaching, inclusive programming and easy access – all just steps from the classroom.
Tom Bell, Director of Sport at Queen’s College, added:
“We are always looking for innovative ways to enhance our sports offering, and padel fits perfectly. Smash Padel’s coaching model, focus on accessibility, and proven success with junior development make them an ideal partner. Padel is a brilliant way to build fitness, confidence and teamwork – we’re excited to see it thrive across all age groups here at Queen’s.”
Beyond the school gates, this partnership will create a new sporting hub for Taunton. The padel courts will be open year-round to the public, helping to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together through a shared love of sport. Community coaching sessions, tournaments, and social events will provide a welcoming environment for everyone – from complete beginners to experienced players.
Smash Padel is nationally recognised for its work in grassroots sport, with a strong focus on inclusion and youth development. They were recently honoured with the LTA’s Service Excellence Award for their outstanding contribution to community engagement and junior participation.
Carson Russell, Chief Operating Officer at Smash Padel, said:
“From inclusivity and coaching excellence to long-term development and community building, Queen’s College shares many of the values that define Smash Padel. This partnership creates the perfect environment for a meaningful and lasting collaboration.”
Ian Thomas, a Queen’s College Governor who has been instrumental in this innovative new partnership, added:
“This project brings together the best of both worlds, opening up Queen’s College to a wider community audience while also giving our pupils the chance to discover and participate in one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. It reflects our commitment to inclusivity, participation and innovation, both for our students and for Taunton as a whole.”
Construction is due to begin shortly, with opening plans and timelines to be shared in the coming months. For updates and enquiries, please visit: www.smashpadel.co
