Soul Padel has appointed PR, influencer and social media agency Smoking Gun to launch Stockport’s first-ever padel club – putting the UK’s fastest-growing racket sport firmly on the regional radar.
Briefed to raise awareness, drive footfall, and shift perceptions that padel is only for the well-heeled, brand-building PR, influencer and social media agency Smoking Gun is delivering a bold, community-focused campaign designed to showcase the sport’s social appeal and growing accessibility.
From targeted media relations to grassroots storytelling, the campaign is set to capitalise on padel’s soaring popularity and make a racket in the Greater Manchester sports scene. Plans include media taster sessions, a high-energy launch event, and a spotlight on the people and communities behind the padel movement.
Soul Padel’s Stockport site is a big step forward in making the sport truly accessible and affordable. After almost a year with two temporary courts and a buzzing local community behind it, the team is gearing up to open four permanent courts and a brand-new clubhouse this June, and the early buzz has been huge.
READ MORE: BRIT Awards to make historic move to Manchester
The club’s strong community spirit comes from its relaxed, accessible vibe and inclusive programming. Soul Sisters is a holistic initiative encouraging women of all ages to play, while Americanos offers fun, competitive sessions for all skill levels. Plus, What’s That Racket? invites schools across South Manchester to get involved and discover the sport for free.
Rick Guttridge, CEO at Smoking Gun, said: “Padel is fast, fun and seriously addictive – and we’re delivering a campaign that channels every bit of that spirit.
“Manchester is a city that lives and breathes sport, and through our partnership with Soul Padel we’re helping open up an exciting, sociable game to communities right across the region – breaking down the usual barriers around cost, culture and confidence.”
Mark Hewlett, CEO and founder of Soul Padel, added: “At Soul Padel, we’re on a mission to make padel accessible, inclusive and genuinely fun for everyone, not just the few. Smoking Gun instantly understood that vision. Their grassroots mindset and creative firepower are exactly what we need to show that padel isn’t just a sport, it’s a community. The early buzz we’re seeing proves we’re building something special in Stockport – and this is just the beginning.”
With the Stockport club opening this summer – and more venues on the horizon – Smoking Gun is now set to continue building Soul Padel’s momentum, region by region, rally by rally.
