The Rally Collective, based at PADELHUB Fleet in Hampshire, is already having a profound effect on women who have discovered a community made just for them.
The Rally Collective’s mission is to bring women together, build confidence, create friendships and have fun, both on and off the padel court. It offers a supportive community where every woman feels encouraged, included and inspired to play.
“Our vision is simple – we want every woman who enjoys playing padel to feel like she has a place to play,” said founder Jodie Packham. “The Rally Collective has been created to bring women together, whatever their level, so they can enjoy great matches, improve their game and become part of a friendly, supportive community.”
On Saturday 18 July, The Rally Collective began the first of four consecutive Saturdays of free women’s padel sessions. The sessions offer an inclusive community for women who want to play more regularly but struggle to find playing partners of a similar level or organised opportunities for women.
“Perhaps the best part of the morning came after the final point had been played,” said Jodie (pictured above). “Instead of rushing home, many of the ladies stayed behind, swapping phone numbers, arranging future games and enjoying coffee together. Watching new friendships form is exactly what The Rally Collective is all about.”
Just two days before, The Rally Collective organised it first ladies-only tournament, which brought over 30 women into the club.
“The standard of padel was brilliant across all levels, but what stood out most was the sense of community,” said Jodie. “It was wonderful to see so many women encouraging each other, meeting new playing partners and simply enjoying being part of something special.”
“I’ve been hooked ever since…”
The welcoming and supportive environment and regular matchplay is already having an incredible effect on the lives of the participants.
Grace said: “Padel has been a Godsend for me. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2022, and undergoing an operation and chemo through 2023 to date (my last session will be in January 2027) I went from being very active to nothing at all, feeling depressed and anxious.
“My lungs and stamina were not where they used to be and I struggled to climb a flight of stairs or take my dog for a walk. I saw an advert for pickleball and tried that but it was too slow. I then saw an advert for a padel session tried it and loved it. I have been hooked ever since.
“My stamina has improved, my lungs are getting there and stair climbing is getting easier. I feel more alive and am grateful for the exercise and friendship padel has given me.”
Another player who has attended the sessions, Jo, said: “Padel is something for me. My life can be pretty full-on, so it’s a chance to laugh, switch off from the daily juggle, and spend time with a fantastic group of women.
“It’s also brought our local sporting communities together. Through playing padel with players from my walking football club, we’ve introduced new people to both sports! It’s amazing how one sport can open the door to another and create new friendships and opportunities.
“For me, padel is about community, confidence, and having fun, whatever your gender or age.”
Jan added: “Padel has been such a great way to make new friends. It’s so inclusive and for a female in her mid-60s it’s great that I can enjoy a sport spanning all ages groups without feeling out of my depth. If you haven’t already tried it, get out there and give it a go. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
- The Rally Collective’s next tournament is at PADELHUB Fleet on Thursday 27 August at 7pm, then Padel And Brunch on Sunday 27 September
