“You try it once and you’re hooked.” That’s how Andy Knee describes padel—a rapidly rising sport that’s gaining popularity across Spain, Sweden, and now throughout the UK. This autumn, Andy is bringing the excitement of padel to Somerset with the launch of PadelStars Taunton, the area’s first dedicated padel centre.
For Andy, opening in Taunton is more than just a business decision. It’s a return to a community he cherishes—an active town with a strong sporting culture but without any padel facilities. “Taunton has excellent sports amenities, yet no padel courts,” he notes. “We’ve seen incredible enthusiasm for padel in towns like this, so we’re confident Taunton will embrace it too.”
Padel combines elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller court using solid paddles and walls that the ball can rebound from, making it dynamic and social. Easy to learn but addictive to play, padel is precisely the experience Andy aims to offer with four new panoramic courts—three under a high-tech canopy, all floodlit for evening play.
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But PadelStars is about more than just sports facilities. It’s a hub for community spirit and social connection. “We want PadelStars to be a welcoming space where people can enjoy great sport while making friends, whether they’re beginners or experienced players,” Andy explains.
Situated next to Blackbrook Leisure Centre, the venue includes a clubhouse with a heated social area and refreshments, blurring the lines between active play and social engagement. Accessibility is a priority. “We welcome everyone—no strict memberships, just flexible pay-and-play options,” Andy says.
Affordability is key too, with courts starting at just £6 per person per hour—a competitive price aimed at encouraging as many people as possible to try padel. “Although quality facilities come with costs, we strive to keep it affordable. Our motto ‘Play Happy’ reflects the joy and energy we want to create,” Andy adds.
This ethos is already evident in the feedback from other PadelStars centres, where players range from 12-year-olds who look forward to padel as the highlight of their week, to a 52-year-old man who’s never felt fitter. “The atmosphere is always vibrant, full of laughter and friendly competition,” says Andy.
Andy’s passion for the sport began two decades ago in Barcelona when, despite language barriers and being a novice, a spontaneous game forged friendships and a lifelong love for padel. After years abroad and working in global sports, the growing popularity of padel inspired him to launch PadelStars with business partner Jamie and bring that feeling of connection and activity to the UK.
At PadelStars Taunton, newcomers will benefit from free beginner sessions, equipment hire for the first month, and discounted court fees during opening weeks. Social events are planned to foster camaraderie, including social nights, leagues, tournaments, and competitions catering to all levels.
Recognising the importance of inclusivity, the centre places strong emphasis on junior development, school engagement, and community outreach. Collaborations with Blackbrook’s existing youth programs enhance access, while efforts to welcome diverse groups—including those with disabilities—reflect the inclusive vision Andy champions.
Looking forward, Andy’s goal isn’t just financial success but creating joyful experiences. “From the smiles on our players’ faces to the lively buzz of the club, the true measure is how much people enjoy being part of PadelStars,” he says.
Optimistic about padel’s potential in the UK, Andy predicts the sport could rival golf, tennis, and football in popularity within a decade. “Padel is a sport you try once, immediately love, and can’t stop playing. We’re excited to see that passion grow here in Taunton.”