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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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Build the Future of Squash in the US Together - Courtwall Seeks U.S. Partner
Courtwall International , a global leader in squash court construction since 1984, is looking for a dedicated U.S. partner representative...


Padel Popularity: Global Surge in First Half of 2025
In the first half of 2025, global padel popularity significantly increased, marked by an 86% rise in tournaments, expanded international reach to 38 countries, and substantial growth in participants from 91 nations. Online engagement mirrored this trend, with notable increases in website traffic and social media interactions, underscoring padel’s rapid global expansion.


A Comprehensive Guide to Planning and Building Padel Courts (Part 2)
Part 2 of our padel court guide dives into structural foundations, lighting design, permit processes, and long-term maintenance. Learn how to build a stable base, ensure proper drainage, install compliant lighting, and avoid delays in approvals. Essential reading for architects and investors aiming to create safe, high-quality padel courts. A must-read before breaking ground – practical, detailed, and regulation-ready insights await.


Squashing the gender gap: How Ynys Môn Squash Club is changing the game for girls
Ynys Môn Squash Club, founded by Shaun Sullivan in 2018, has transformed from just 5% female participation to nearly 40%, with girls now outnumbering boys in junior sessions. Driven by a vision of inclusivity and inspired by his daughter, Shaun introduced free coaching for women and girls with support from Sport Wales. Stories like 16-year-old referee Rhian Jones highlight the growing confidence and leadership among girls. The club is setting a powerful example for gender equ


England’s 10-Year Health Plan: Impact on Racquet Sports Facilities
England’s 10-Year Health Plan will inject £400 million into community sport infrastructure. The SFN analyzes how this public investment impacts racquet sports facilities, especially Squash, Padel, and Pickleball. Opportunities include visibility and school integration, while risks arise from subsidized competition. Public-private cooperation is key to sustainable growth.


A Comprehensive Guide to Planning and Building Padel Courts
This expert-developed guide from SFN covers everything architects and investors need to plan and build padel courts—from indoor vs. outdoor design, space requirements, and court types to surface selection, permitting, foundations, and a comprehensive checklist. Ideal for first-time planners seeking clarity and precision.


Open Squash, New York – a blueprint for mission-driven, financially viable “community squash”
Open Squash, a non-profit with two Manhattan clubs, redefines urban squash by combining scale, inclusivity, and personalised member engagement. With a mission-first model, tiered pricing, and strong community outreach, the club proves that squash can be both financially viable and socially impactful—even in one of the world’s most expensive cities.


Padel Goes Global: Key Findings from the 2025 Playtomic Report
The 2025 Global Padel Report by Playtomic highlights a 26% surge in new clubs, over 7,000 new courts, and rapid expansion beyond traditional hotspots. Countries like the US, Indonesia, and Colombia are emerging as key markets. Digital platforms drive accessibility, while multi-racquet facilities and Olympic aspirations reshape the sport’s future. Padel is evolving into a global, tech-enabled, and commercially sustainable phenomenon.


AI for Better Matches: How Artificial Intelligence is Enhancing Racquet Sports Facilities
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing racket sports facilities by enabling instant skill assessment, fair player matchmaking, and dynamic rating systems. These technologies enhance the player experience by ensuring balanced matches, building social connections, and supporting progress tracking. Clubs that integrate AI tools can boost member retention, stand out from global platforms, and attract new demographics in the digital age.
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