Starting Padel Young: Coaching Tips For Junior Players

Padel is booming. It is not just adults who are enjoying our amazing sport. 

Across the globe, more junior players are picking up a padel racket, drawn in by the fast pace, sociable vibe and accessible learning curve. But coaching young padel players and developing their love of the game comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities.

Whether you're a coach or a parent looking to nurture the next generation of talent, here are some essential tips from the Padel39 team to help young players thrive on the court.

1. Focus on fun first

For juniors, enjoyment is everything. 

If a child associates padel with pressure or boredom, they’re unlikely to stick with it. Use games-based learning wherever possible - target practice, rallies with scoring challenges, or mini-tournaments with friends.

The goal? Create sessions that spark smiles while still teaching the fundamentals.

2. Keep techniques age-appropriate

Younger players don’t need to master every stroke straight away. 

Prioritise building up foundational skills:

• Correct grip (continental is key)
• Simple forehands and backhands
• Controlled volleys
• Understanding how the ball reacts off the glass

Introduce more advanced shots (like the bandeja or vibora) only when they’ve developed good consistency and confidence with the basics.

3. Teach positioning and movement early

One major difference between padel and tennis is how crucial positioning and teamwork are. 

Get juniors used to:

• Moving together with their partner
• Returning to centre court positions
• Judging whether to attack or defend

Use cones or court markers in drills to help visualise ideal positioning.

4. Encourage Communication and Teamwork

Since padel is always played in doubles, helping juniors build communication habits early is crucial. This includes:

• Calling shots (“mine!” or “yours!”)
• Encouraging each other
• High-fiving after points (win or lose)

These soft skills will pay dividends later and help build friendships along the way.

5. Adapt equipment for younger players

Make sure you're using junior-friendly gear:

• Lighter rackets with smaller grips
• Slower balls (like low-compression padel balls)
• Adjusted court sizes or net heights for very young beginners

This reduces strain on growing bodies and boosts confidence.

6. Set realistic goals

Setting small, achievable goals can keep kids motivated. For example:

• “Can we hit 10 volleys in a row?”
• “Let’s try a full rally using the back wall!”
   

Avoid overemphasising match wins or rankings. Focus on effort, improvement and enjoyment. There is so much more to padel than just chasing the victory.

7. Make sessions inclusive and positive

Not every child wants to be the next World Padel Tour star - and that is absolutely fine.

Cater for all levels and personalities by mixing competitive and social formats. Celebrate progress at every stage and create a welcoming environment where every child feels valued.

Final Thoughts

Starting padel young is a fantastic way to develop coordination, fitness, social skills and a lifelong love for sport. As a parent / coach / mentor, your role is more than just teaching technique. You are helping build confidence, resilience and joy through padel.

With the right approach, those early lessons can lay the foundation for a happy and healthy relationship with the game, whether they play for fun or aspire to go pro.

Find out more about how we support junior players here at Padel39.