A five-year plan for sustainable padel development in Ireland.

Building on the Previous Plan

PFI five-year strategy is to build on the success of earlier achievements and the continuous growth of padel in Ireland. The previous strategic plan set out to promote knowledge and practice of padel in Ireland, and the federation has now moved into a phase where it must support a growing player base with stronger structures.

In 2018 PFI achieved affiliation to the world governing body of padel, the International Padel Federation (FIP), and to the European Padel Federation (FEPA). Since then, PFI has supported national team development, Irish representation in official international and European competition, and the Irish Padel Tour national ranking pathway.

• Build on previous goals and federation achievements.
• Move from early promotion into structured growth and development.
• Support training and competition as player levels continue to rise.

Why the Next Phase Matters

The number of padel players in Ireland continues to grow, and the sport needs infrastructure, education, competition, and governance structures that can support that growth. PFI treats the strategic plan as a living document and a benchmark for decisions over the coming years.

The continued involvement of registered players, clubs, coaches, officials, volunteers, members, partners, and stakeholders will help determine the success of the plan and contribute to the long-term benefit of padel in Ireland.

• Increase participation while maintaining clear standards.
• Support infrastructure that can meet growing demand.
• Use annual reporting and public updates to track progress.

Growth Areas

PFI will continue to work on the growth areas that support participation, facilities, education, competition, inclusion, and the wider development of the sport.

• Continued geographical spread of padel in Ireland.
• Support for new facilities across clubs, gyms, schools, colleges, hotels, and residential estates.
• Support for new clubs, including training for staff and coaches.
• Junior participation at a competitive level and increased school participation, including a school league.
• High-performance supports, national team pathways, and international representation.
• Women in Sport training programmes, wheelchair padel, disability inclusion, and third-level league development.
• Historic strategic objectives included Ireland selection or participation in the European Games 2023 pathway.

Strategic Plan for Padel Development in Ireland - 2024

The 2024 strategic direction presents padel as a dynamic and independent sport in Ireland, reflecting its growing popularity and acceptance across diverse disciplines and player profiles.

The objective is to continue the momentum generated over recent years by reinforcing PFI commitment to the sport and strengthening collaboration with international, European, and Irish stakeholders and sporting bodies.

• Continue to work as the sole national federation in Ireland affiliated with FIP.
• Recognise PFI founding member status in Padel Europe during the European Championships in Cagliari.
• Reflect the appointment of PFI President Naomi Nicholl as Vice-President of Padel Europe.
• Use European and international collaboration to support Irish players, coaches, officials, clubs, and teams.

Strategic Initiatives

The strategy focuses on practical initiatives that can support the whole padel ecosystem, from grassroots participation to high-performance development and international collaboration.

• Promote growth by engaging diverse player profiles and expanding participation through targeted outreach and development programmes.
• Work with all stakeholders involved in padel internationally and on the island of Ireland, with a focus on the long-term sustainability of padel from junior development to lasting economic and structural viability.
• Work with existing and new clubs and courts, offering the benefits of affiliation with the national governing body for padel in Ireland.
• Strengthen partnerships with local clubs, schools, sports organisations, and stakeholders to foster an inclusive padel environment.
• Use FIP and Padel Europe affiliation to increase visibility and access resources for Irish players and coaches.
• Invest in training and education programmes for players, coaches, and officials.
• Organise events and tournaments that build community, showcase the sport, and encourage wider involvement.
• Continue to work with existing sponsors and attract new partners whose values align with PFI goals for growing padel on the island of Ireland.
• Develop a comprehensive growth strategy covering grassroots initiatives, inclusion, high-performance programmes, and sustainable infrastructure.