The Padel School Podcast

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The Padel School Podcast

Sandy Farquharson

156 episodes

1 week ago

In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest gaps between amateur and professional padel: how players actually train. Fresh from Barcelona and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the highest-level finals ever played, Sandy shares what stood out most—not just the level in matches, but the detail and intention in how the pros prepare. From practicing individual shots to adapting to slow courts, we explore why training (not just matches) is where real improvement happens. We also reflect on coac...

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In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest gaps between amateur and professional padel: how players actually train. Fresh from Barcelona and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the highest-level finals ever played, Sandy shares what stood out most—not just the level in matches, but the detail and intention in how the pros prepare. From practicing individual shots to adapting to slow courts, we explore why training (not just matches) is where real improvement happens. We also reflect on coac...

Show more...

Episodes (20/156)

The Padel School Podcast

From Plateau to Progress: The Training Shift That Changes Everything

In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest gaps between amateur and professional padel: how players actually train. Fresh from Barcelona and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the highest-level finals ever played, Sandy shares what stood out most—not just the level in matches, but the detail and intention in how the pros prepare. From practicing individual shots to adapting to slow courts, we explore why training (not just matches) is where real improvement happens. We also reflect on coac...

4 days ago

14 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Control the Controllables: How Top Players Handle Losses

Losing matches is part of padel—but knowing how to respond to those losses is what really defines your level. In this episode, we break down how to bounce back after a tough defeat, a match you feel you should’ve won, or even a frustrating losing streak. We talk about why margins in padel are so small, how expectations and emotions can spiral after a loss, and why focusing on the process—not the outcome—is the key to long-term improvement. You’ll learn practical ways to reset mentally, reflec...

1 week ago

16 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Why the Pros Rarely Miss: The Real Padel Lessons You Don’t See on TV

Tom and Sandy discuss lessons from Premier Padel, including Tom's recent training session with Juan Lebrón and Leo Augsburger in Madrid! In this episode, Sandy and Tom break down key lessons from Premier Padel tournaments and Tom's recent training sessions in Madrid with Juan Lebrón and Leo Augsburger! They explore why pros make fewer unforced errors, how they “find their range” early in matches, and why choosing the right shot matters more than perfect technique. You’ll hear why...

2 weeks ago

21 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Should Tennis Players Go All In on Padel? The Honest Truth

In this episode, Sandy and Tom tackle one of the biggest questions tennis players ask when they discover padel: should you play both… or is it time to go all in? Drawing from their own journeys — from Sandy switching overnight to Tom juggling pro tennis with Friday-night “pizza, beers and padel” sessions — they break down why dabbling only takes you so far, why the two sports aren’t as complementary as people think, and the common pitfalls tennis players hit when transitioning to padel. They ...

3 weeks ago

15 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Before You Hire a Coach… Listen to This

Bad coaching can hold your game back — sometimes more than no coaching at all. In this episode, Sandy and Tom discuss the hidden problem many padel players face: receiving poor guidance that creates bad habits and slows progress. Drawing from their own tennis and padel experiences, they share how to spot good coaching, avoid common pitfalls, and why the best coach isn’t always the best player. They also give a sneak peek at The Padel School’s 2026 project, designed to support players and coac...

1 month ago

12 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

The Real Costs Behind the Padel Court

In this episode, we explore why padel isn’t as accessible as it could be—despite being one of the easiest sports to pick up and enjoy with friends. From court costs, indoor vs. outdoor play, and equipment, to coaching availability, we break down the barriers that make the game more challenging for newcomers. Tom and Sandy also share insights on how the sport could evolve in the next five years, making paddle more affordable and reachable for players everywhere. Whether you’re a beginner, look...

1 month ago

19 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Unlock Your Next Level: The Real Reason Your Progress Has Stalled

Are you playing padel several times a week but still feel like you’re not improving? You’re not the only one. In this episode, we break down why more court time doesn’t automatically lead to progress — and what you should be doing instead. Sandy and Tom explore the hidden traps many players fall into: repeating the same habits, avoiding structured drills, relying only on matches, and never addressing the real weaknesses in their game. You’ll learn how to set up smarter training sessions, what...

1 month ago

19 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Padel’s Biggest Question: Is the Olympic Dream Closer Than We Think?

Padel’s growth has been explosive — but is it ready for the Olympics? In this episode, Sandy and Tom dive deep into one of the sport’s biggest questions: when will padel become an Olympic sport? Drawing from their recent experiences at the FIP Euro Cup and years of involvement in international tournaments, they break down what still needs to happen for padel to make that leap. From governance and global participation to youth development, gender balance, and the business of club growth, they ...

1 month ago

18 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

The Overhead Decision That Defines Your Padel Game

Knowing when (and how) to hit the bandeja or vibora can be the difference between holding the net or losing the point. In this episode, Tom and Sandy break down the key differences between the two shots, when to use each one, and how to adapt your overheads to conditions, opponents, and your own level. They also discuss why the bandeja is still essential in the modern game, how the vibora evolves from an attacking weapon to a tactical tool, and the best ways to practice both so you can build...

2 months ago

12 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Padel Tactics Every Player Gets Wrong

Most players lose matches not because of their technique, but because of their tactics. In this episode, Sandy and Tom break down the most common tactical mistakes club players make, and the simple changes that can instantly raise your level. From poor court positioning and “no man’s land” errors to weak communication and rushed decision-making, they unpack the habits that hold players back and how to fix them. You’ll learn how to move better as a pair, improve your on-court communication, ...

2 months ago

16 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

How to Hit the PERFECT LOB in a Game!

The lob might look simple, but it’s one of the hardest shots to master — and one of the most effective when you get it right. In this episode, we break down exactly how to hit a lob that gives you time, creates pressure, and completely changes the rhythm of the point. You’ll learn how to choose the right height and depth, when to play it, and how to avoid the classic mistake of giving your opponent an easy smash. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to hit lobs that frustrate your...

2 months ago

11 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Why You’re Not Getting Better at Padel (Even If You Play All the Time)

In this episode, Sandy and Tom tackle one of the biggest frustrations for players — putting in the hours but not seeing improvement. They unpack the real reasons why more court time doesn’t always mean more progress, from technical habits and tactical awareness to the importance of focused training. Whether you’re playing for fun or pushing to compete, this episode will help you understand what’s holding your game back — and what to do differently to finally break through that plateau. EXPL...

2 months ago

15 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Stop Using the Glass Wrong: When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Use It

In this episode, Sandy and Tom dive into one of the most misunderstood parts of padel — the back glass. Everyone says you need to use it, but few players actually know when they should. They unpack how your level, playing style, and racket sport background all influence when (and when not) to play off the wall. From why ex-tennis players often get caught out to how to use the glass to build a smarter, more complete padel game, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to finally make ...

2 months ago

17 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

How Adaptable Are YOU? Make People Want To Play With You!

We’re back with a new video podcast – this time, no couch and no fluff. In this episode, we catch you up on our recent trips with the Red Bull TV team, from Premier Padel at Roland Garros to the Reserve Cup in Marbella. Sandy reflects on how these events have evolved and what they reveal about the sport’s growth. But the big focus of today’s conversation is a question every player should ask themselves: how do you become the partner everyone wants to play with? From the pros at the very top t...

3 months ago

17 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

What We Wish We Knew at the Start of Our Padel Careers

In this episode, Sandy and Tom rewind the clock to the very start of their padel journeys and share the biggest regrets they carry to this day. From not competing seriously enough in the early years, to overlooking key areas of development, to simply not knowing the pathways that now seem so obvious—they break down the choices that shaped (and sometimes slowed) their progress. It’s an honest look at the lessons they wish they had learned earlier, with plenty of stories, reflections, and pract...

3 months ago

17 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Why You’re Not Improving at Padel (And How to Fix It)

It’s the golden question players ask us all the time — in clinics, on our platform, and even after matches: “Why have I stopped improving?” The truth is, most players experience 6–9 months of steady progress before they hit the dreaded plateau. It’s frustrating, but it’s also avoidable. In this episode, we break down the 3 T’s that hold players back: ✅ Technique – why good coaching (and the right kind) matters to break bad habits ✅ Tactics – how to truly understand positioning, patterns, an...

3 months ago

17 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

The SECRET Pros Know About Training

Think you have to book lessons to improve your padel? Think again. In this episode, we break down why recreational players don’t need a coach to train like a pro—and how you can take control of your own improvement. From ball machines to simple drills with friends, we’ll share practical ways to build confidence, consistency, and long-term progress—even if you don’t have regular access to a coach. We’ll also talk about the importance of self-analysis, training more than you play, and how small...

3 months ago

10 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

How To NEVER Let Your Partner Down

In this episode, Tom and Sandy dive into one of the toughest parts of padel: how to truly support your partner and bring the best out of each other on court. Whether you’re new to the game and worried about letting someone down, or you’ve been competing with the same partner for years, this conversation hits home for every level of player. They introduce the Three P’s—Prepare, Push, and Practice—as the framework to become a reliable, competitive, and confident teammate. From showing up early ...

3 months ago

12 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

Crack the Americano Code: Secrets to Finishing on the Top Court

How do you win your next Americano? Whether it’s a social rotation at your club or a competitive mix-in, everyone’s chasing that elusive goal — finishing on the top court. In this episode, Sandy and Tom break down exactly how to give yourself the best chance. From building instant rapport with new partners (think “speed dating on a padel court”) to navigating side choices without awkwardness, they share simple ways to start strong. They also dive into the tactical side: how to stay patient un...

4 months ago

14 minutes

The Padel School Podcast

REVEALED: Which Racket Sports Transition Best to Padel?

In this episode, Sandy and Tom are back together after busy weeks of training and travel — including Sandy’s three-week road trip across the US to explore padel in Charlotte, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston. They dive into how the sport is developing in America, the challenges clubs face when they’re the only ones in their region, and what that means for the game’s growth. From there, the discussion shifts to a big question: which racket sports give players the best foundation for padel? D...

4 months ago

17 minutes