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Dan Troy
Founder & Head Coach

Dan Troy is the founder and head coach of the British Padel Academy, dedicated to improving player development and raising the standard of padel coaching across the UK. With over 25 years of experience in sports coaching and a BSc in Sport & Exercise Science with a specialism in sports psychology, Dan combines scientific insight with practical expertise to help players and coaches reach their full potential.

Every session counts.

Dan’s Padel Journey

Dan discovered padel in 2016 and quickly immersed himself in the sport, traveling from India to Thailand to learn from clubs worldwide. Upon returning to the UK, he was employed by Richard Hall Smith (Padel United) to head up coaching at what was Go Padel in Maldon, and has been at the forefront of developing padel in the UK ever since.

 

Today, he is widely recognised for nurturing talent from beginner to GB-level players. His coaching approach emphasises the unseen 99%—preparation, analysis, and mindset work off the court. Dan believes winning is a by-product of consistent learning and deliberate practice, encouraging players to engage with the mental, tactical, and physical aspects of the game alike.

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Coaching Philosophy

 

  • Player Development at All Levels: Dan coaches everyone from beginners to national-level athletes, tailoring sessions to each player’s needs.

  • Analytical Approach: He is known for his detailed analysis of patterns, helping players improve through structured feedback and thoughtful practice.

  • Holistic Growth: Dan integrates fitness, mental strategies, and match awareness into his sessions, encouraging players to learn beyond the court.

  • Mentorship: He supports players’ broader development, providing guidance, resources, and inspiration to help them reach their goals.

 

“Winning is just a by-product of learning.” – Dan Troy (The Padel Paper)

 

 

Achievements & Impact

 

  • Founded the British Padel Academy, which operates across multiple UK clubs, delivering elite coaching and developing player pathways.

  • Developed some of the UK’s top-ranked players, including the highest-ranking GB player and many national representatives at junior, senior, and veterans’ levels.

  • Featured in The Padel Paper for his innovative coaching methods and dedication to raising coaching standards.

  • Offers the Introduction to Coaching Course, equipping aspiring coaches with foundational skills and padel-specific techniques.

  • Works closely with clubs to enhance coaching programmes, player pathways, and club performance nationwide.

 

 

Case Study: Mentoring Elite Players


Dan has played a pivotal role in developing elite athletes, from GB No. 1 Aimee Gibson to rising stars including Rosie Quirk—recently selected for the GB women’s squad—Chloe De La Mare, Stan Hunt, Liam De La Mare, and many others. His coaching combines tactical precision, performance psychology, and tailored training plans, preparing players to compete at the highest national and international levels.

 

Philosophy in Practice

 

Dan believes that learning extends beyond the court. He encourages players to explore books, documentaries, and research related to sports performance, fostering curiosity, discipline, and long-term growth. His sessions are energetic, focused, and designed to build confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of padel.

 

 

Media & Recognition

 

Dan Troy and the British Padel Academy are increasingly recognised nationally and internationally. Clubs regularly seek his expertise, and media outlets highlight his approach to coaching and player development.

 

Read more about Dan’s journey and coaching insights in The Padel Paper.

 

Ready to elevate your padel game?

Contact the British Padel Academy to find out about coaching programmes, courses, and player development opportunities.

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