In Part 3 of our exclusive interview with George Modler, co-founder of the Padel Directory, we dive into his ambitious plans to launch the USA Padel Directory on January 1st. Building on the platform’s success in the UK, George shares insights into how the U.S. version will connect players, clubs, and businesses, offering a one-stop resource for America’s rapidly growing padel scene. From interactive maps to tailored support for clubs, George reveals how the directory is set to reshape the landscape of U.S. padel.
“The U.S. is much bigger than the UK, and if padel really gets to where people are hoping, the directory will be a must,” George said. The idea for the expansion was first suggested by Ben Nichols, a padel advocate who saw the directory’s potential to fill a critical gap in the U.S. market.
To ensure success, the team has taken a cautious and thoughtful approach. “We’ve worked slightly slower on this one purely because we wanted to educate ourselves on the U.S. market,” George explained. “We don’t have feet on the ground there, so we’ve gone slower, acclimatized ourselves to the different brands and clubs, and worked with Ben Nichols and Austin Edwards, who’s been great at connecting us with the right people.”
“I see a number of pickleball clubs that are considering putting padel in, and if they all come at once, we’ll have to ensure that we stay on top of this so we can provide as much valid information as we can,”
The U.S. platform will feature many of the successful elements of its UK counterpart, including an interactive map and detailed club subpages. However, it will also incorporate features tailored to the unique needs of the American market. “For our member clubs or affiliated clubs, they’ll have more details and branding on their pinpoint and a click-through to their bespoke subpage,” George said.
One of the biggest challenges, George noted, will be keeping up with the rapid pace of club openings. “I see a number of pickleball clubs that are considering putting padel in, and if they all come at once, we’ll have to ensure that we stay on top of this so we can provide as much valid information as we can,” he said.
“If it works in the UK and it works in the U.S., why wouldn’t we expand elsewhere? Asia is definitely on our radar.”
Despite the challenges, the Padel Directory’s expansion has been met with enthusiasm. “People like the idea and think it’s going to help the sport,” George shared. “It’s not competing with anyone—we just want to work alongside everyone and ensure that we can help the sport grow.”
Looking ahead, George envisions the directory becoming a global platform. “If it works in the UK and it works in the U.S., why wouldn’t we expand elsewhere?” he said. “Asia is definitely on our radar.”
As the USA Padel Directory prepares to launch in one of the sport’s most promising markets, it’s clear that the platform is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of padel. Whether you’re a player, club owner, or industry stakeholder, the Padel Directory is shaping up to be an indispensable resource for the growing community.
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