Welcome to Cardiff University Padel Club!
We’re one of Cardiff’s newest AU clubs for the 2025/26 year. Whether you’re a padel pro, completely new to the game, or just looking for a fun group to hang out with, this is the club for you. From opportunities to compete in the highest university leagues to beginner-friendly coaching and social sessions, there’s something here for everyone.
Where?
We’re so happy to be partnering with Smash Padel Cardiff as our host venue for the 2025/26 season. You’ll find us at their six panoramic, canopy-covered courts in Llandaff Fields, Cardiff (CF11 9HZ)
Smash Padel has venues across the UK, providing top-quality facilities and a welcoming community for players of all levels, the perfect match for our new club. Their covered courts mean we can also playing in whatever rain the welsh weather throws at us.
When We Train:
Our weekly sessions are split by level so that everyone can find the right fit, whether you're picking up a racket for the first time or already competing at a high level.
Tuesday @ Smash Padel Cardiff
· 3:00 – 4:00pm: Social Courts
· 4:00 – 5:00pm: Advanced Coaching (invite only)
Wednesday @ Smash Padel Cardiff
· 1:00 – 2:00pm: Beginners Coaching
· 2:00 – 3:00pm: Social Courts
· 3:00 – 4:00pm: Social Courts
What Are Social Courts?
Our social courts are fun, friendly sessions overseen by a Smash Padel coach. They’re designed to give everyone the chance to play some chilled matches, meet new people, and improve their game in a relaxed environment.
These sessions will run as Americano-style padel tournaments, where you rotate partners and opponents, a great way to get plenty of game time, pick up new skills, and enjoy the social side of the sport.
Once you are a member of our club you will be added to our whatapp community - to sign up for social courts you will need to book you spot through there!
Beginner Coaching (£2 per session)
Led by a Smash Padel coach, these sessions are open to anyone who’s new to the sport. They’re all about learning the basics, building confidence, and giving you the tools to enjoy games straight away.
Advanced Coaching (£2 per session, invite only)
These sessions are aimed at players looking to compete in the NUPL. They will be led by a Smash Padel coach, they focus on improving technique, tactics, and match play. Attendance at these sessions will be required for anyone who wants to represent Cardiff in competitive fixtures.
Fixtures & Leagues
We’re proud to be competing in the National University Padel League (NUPL) - the highest level of university padel in the UK. For the 2025/26 season, we’ll be entering 2 women's squad and 4 men's squads, giving plenty of players the opportunity to compete at a high level.
· League Matches:Take place on Saturdays throught the year in the South West League, with fixtures held in Bristol and the grand final in London.
· Tournaments: Alongside the NUPL, we’ll also compete in major tournaments such as the UK Padel Tournament, where our women’s team are the current champions.
· Friendlies: Throughout the year, we’ll also arrange friendly matches against local teams to give more players match experience and keep competition fun and accessible.
· Club Events: We’ll also host our own tournaments and fun events for all levels. Our Christmas Padel Tournament gives everyone in the club the chance to play competitively in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Socials & Fundraising
Our socials run every Wednesday evening at our dedicated social venue (to be announced soon), giving everyone a chance to relax, unwind, and have fun together before heading to YOLO.All social information will be posted in our club Facebook group, which you’ll be able to join once you become a member. Expect a mix of themed socials, chilled hangouts, and big nights out - there’s something for everyone!
Alongside our weekly socials, we’ll also run fundraising events throughout the year to support both the club and chosen charities. These will include fun activities and tournaments, with plenty of opportunities to get involved on and off the court.
Full Club Membership – £160
Becoming a full member gives you access to everything Cardiff University Padel Club has to offer:
· Access to Tuesday and Wednesday Social Courts
· Access to beginner and advanced coaching sessions
· Smash Coaches present at all sessions - offering advise and organsing games
· Acess to high quality rackets and balls at all sessions
· Access to our WhatsApp community and Facebook page
· 33% off any off peak court booking at Smash Padel and on anything in their shop (rackets, bags etc)
· A free Smash Padel T-shirt for the first 50 members
· Join our club tour and other special events
Social Membership – £30
If you don’t want to play padel but still want to join the fun, our social membership is perfect for you. You’ll have access to our Facebook page, all club socials, tour and any other special events so you can stay involved and meet new people.
Refund Policy: full refund available within 14 days of purchase - please contact the club President and Treasurer.
Give It a Go (GIAG) – £2 per session
Our GIAG sessions are the perfect way to try padel for the first time, ask any questions about the club, and get a feel for our training environment. Dates and time are below along with a tickets that must be purchased below to attend.
Trials: held in October for NUPL teams.
FAQ'S
Q: Do I need any prior experience to join?
A: No! We welcome everyone, from complete beginners to experienced players. We have beginner coaching sessions, social courts, and advanced sessions for those wanting to compete.
Q: How much does it cost to join?
A: Full club membership is £160, which includes coaching, social courts, discounts on court bookings, club kit, and access to socials and events. Social membership is available for those who just want to join our socials and Facebook community.
Q: What should I bring to sessions?
A: Comfortable sports clothing, suitable footwear for padel courts, a racket (if you have one — some can be borrowed at Smash Padel), and a water bottle.
Q: Can I attend sessions without being in a team?
A: Yes! Social courts and GIAG sessions are open to all members. Only advanced coaching and NUPL trials are restricted to invitees or those aiming to compete.
Q: How do I find out about socials and events?
A: All info will be posted in our Facebook group and WhatsApp community once you become a member.
Q: Do I need to attend GIAG to join?
A: No, but it’s a great way to try padel, ask questions, and get a feel for the club before committing.
Q: Can I participate in tournaments if I’m a beginner?
A: Absolutely! The club hosts fun events and tournaments for all levels, like our Christmas Padel Tournament, so everyone has a chance to play competitively.
Q: What if I don’t have a racket or balls?
A: No worries! Smash Padel will provide rackets and balls for all sessions, so you can just turn up and play.
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