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Insights Library — All Posts by Category
Explore the Racquet Sports Institute Insights Library—a single place for decision-grade analysis, benchmarks, and practical playbooks. Because no courts, no players, our content keeps facilities at the center while connecting market signals to design and day-to-day operations. You’ll find deep dives on ecosystem trends and country developments, proven facility models, smart management (planning, community, programming, operations tech), architecture that turns strategy into built performance, updates on our forthcoming AI.
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Padel and Pickleball: A new systematic review examined the affect on mental health
Padel and pickleball are more than trending racket sports—they offer distinct mental health benefits for players. A 2025 systematic review highlights that pickleball boosts life satisfaction, happiness, and social connection, particularly in seniors. Padel enhances self-confidence and reduces anxiety among competitive players but increases mental fatigue. Club operators can leverage these findings to optimize programs and improve member wellbeing.
Elite Squash as a driver of squash development: Victor Crouin’s perspective
French No. 1 Victor Crouin shares how high-level squash can drive the sport’s growth. From inspiring youth and families to leveraging media visibility, he stresses the role of passionate coaches, strategic promotion, and outdoor courts. For Crouin, elite squash isn’t a magic fix, but a powerful tool when used wisely — creating a virtuous circle between grassroots participation and top-level performance.
LA28 Awards Venue Naming Rights for First Time in Olympics Games History
For the first time in Olympic and Paralympic history, LA28 introduces venue naming rights, unlocking a new commercial model for the Games. Comcast Squash Center at Universal Studios will host Squash’s Olympic debut, while Honda Center in Anaheim retains its name to host Volleyball. These groundbreaking partnerships with Comcast and Honda mark a milestone in LA28’s mission for privately funded, innovative Games. Additional partners are expected as the countdown continues.
Racquet Sports at the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta
The 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta strategically features squash due to its logistical fit and sustainable venue use. Badminton, historically significant but requiring greater resources, is excluded temporarily. Emerging sports like padel and pickleball await wider adoption before potential inclusion, reflecting careful strategic decisions balancing tradition, sustainability, and local capabilities.
PSA Squash Tour Prize Money Up 18% to Record $12.5M Following 2024-25 Season
The PSA Squash Tour hit a historic high in 2024-25 with $12.5M in player compensation, marking an 18.4% rise from the previous season. This follows the rollout of a new tour structure aimed at long-term stability ahead of squash's LA28 Olympic debut. With 1,019 events across 70 countries and balanced earnings between top male and female players, the season reflects PSA’s commitment to global growth, financial equity, and athlete opportunity.
Sport Shops in Racquet Facilities: Adapting to the Online Challenge
Sports shops in racket facilities face challenges due to online competition. Shaun from Oliver emphasizes competitive pricing, honest advice, product testing, efficient service, essential accessories, profitable restringing services, and brand partnerships as crucial for success.
The Social Club Revolution in Racquet Sports
Racquet sports like padel and pickleball are booming not just for fitness, but for their social appeal. This article explores how the rise of “social clubs” is reshaping the racquet sports industry by combining sport, hospitality, and community. From facility design to programming and member experience, it outlines how true social value—not just branding—will define the next generation of racquet clubs.
Exploring the Future of Pickleball and Padel Facilities: IAPPF 2025 Conference Preview
The 2025 IAPPF International Conference & Expo will be held in Austin from October 1–4, gathering global professionals in pickleball and padel. Led by industry pioneer David Johnson, the event offers educational sessions, targeted networking, and insights into growth trends like multi-sport facilities. With decision-makers in attendance, it serves as a key platform for suppliers, operators, and investors shaping the future of racquet sports venues.
From School Squash to Student Nights: SquashUP Reenergizes the Sport in Germany
The Squash Up! initiative is reigniting interest in squash across Germany through school partnerships and social events for university students. Led by former champion Simon Frenz and supported by the German Squash Federation, it combines teacher training and lively “Squash Up! Nights” to engage new players. With pilot programs in Hamburg and Norderstedt showing strong demand, the initiative aims to expand nationally and rebuild the sport’s grassroots base.
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