Trinity students took to the courts last weekend for the school’s first ever competitive padel match, playing in the National U18 Schools Padel Championships in Bristol. This has become the biggest ever junior padel event in the UK, with 132 young players competing from schools across the country.
Representing Trinity were Fifth Years Robbie T and Anish M alongside Upper Sixth students Karson C and Jamie W; they all demonstrated impressive progress and teamwork throughout the day. Despite narrowly missing out on the playoff stages, the team finished third in a highly competitive group that included Epsom College, Manchester Grammar School, Colfe’s School, and King Edward’s Witley.
Coach Mr Hooper praised the boys’ efforts and highlighted the significance of this milestone for Trinity sport. “This was another great opportunity to diversify our sporting programme and give students access to emerging sports that are gaining huge popularity,” he said. “Padel is currently recognised as the fastest-growing sport in the world, and with new courts opening in Croydon, we hope this is just the beginning for Trinity students.”
For Fifth Year student Robbie, who has previously played tennis at national level, the experience was an exciting challenge. “I had only played padel a few times before this and never with school,” he said. “It’s different to tennis because of the walls, meaning that even if the ball goes past you, you can still get it back. It was a great experience because there were schools from all over the country and a really good atmosphere. I’d like to play padel more after this tournament.”
We look forward to competing in the U13 and U15 National Schools Championships later this year.
Scroll right to see more stories
