Meet Oskar Wynne - Club Manager in Ilford

London April 19th

Tell us, Why Rocket Padel?

-I had already heard many good things about Rocket Padel from friends within the Padel industry. Rocket Padel produces incredibly high quality, market leading Padel venue’s and puts community and involvement at the heart of their mission. Simply put, this resonates with my own beliefs that sport should promote inclusivity and fun at all levels, and the right facilities can have a hugely positive impact on people’s lives.

What sparked your interest in becoming Club Manager in Padel?

-I love Padel and have a passion for growing the game. I wanted to join a project that made me excited to get up and go to work every day. I’ve heard great things about the company and share their values I’ve loved it so far and am motivated to contribute towards offering as many people as possible the opportunity to enjoy Padel at an amazing venue!

Can you share a bit about your background and how it led you to this role?

-My background is in tennis, I played a lot as a junior and still compete for Devon today. I worked in coaching for a long time and loved it, working closely with people was very rewarding and I enjoyed the social aspect of the work. A few knee injuries and a business management degree led me into the world of fintech and payment solutions!! However, I missed working in sport every day and want to work in a space that I am passionate about…. Rocket Padel!!

What do you hope to bring to the club and what are your goals for enhancing the member experience?

-With my background in coaching and passion for working with people I hope to create an atmosphere where everybody feels happy, welcome, and excited to spend time at the club. I want to create a club which can cater for you whether you’ve played Padel for 20 years or only heard of it yesterday! One way to do this is by providing a coaching and tournament programme that leads the way in providing first class coaching for beginners and advanced players. I’m also open, so if you feel there is something we can improve or haven’t thought of, I’m all ears!

What's your favourite thing about the Padel community, and how do you plan to incorporate that into your role?

-My favourite thing about the Padel community is without doubt the inclusivity. Padel is such an amazing sport in that the barriers of entry for beginners are low but the journey to ‘mastery’ is very long, so it opens itself to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. I want to create a space where people feel welcome and included and we provide opportunities for everyone.

What will set Rocket Ilford apart from the clubs in London?

-6. We want to provide premium facilities and a premium experience at a price that players can afford. Whether it’s the playing facilities, the lounge areas, or the customer service, we want to set the standard for Padel across London. Plus, of course Padel is best played indoors!

Can you share a story about a particularly meaningful connection or friendship you've formed through Padel?

-The first time I played Padel was at a court that was installed at the tennis club I was coaching at. A colleague and I noticed two players having a game of singles, we both happened to be free at the time, so jumped on court with the pair and ended up having a great game and a few drinks afterwards. We still do the same thing together 5 years later!

What aspect of working at Rocket Padel club are you most looking forward to?

-The people! We can talk about our facilities (and they will be amazing!), but the people are what make a club, whether that’s staff or players or both, so I can’t wait to get started on building the Rocket Padel, Ilford community!

And lastly, when can we see you kicking out smashes on court in Ilford?

-Me? Maybe never! But we are open from now for anyone who can, can’t yet or wants to try for the first time - Welcome!