Padel Life Exclusive: Dylan Carneiro on Coaching, the SA Padel Ball League, and Growing the Sport in South Africa

When you meet Dylan Carneiro, his passion for Padel is clear. What started as a casual game quickly grew into a career of coaching, organizing leagues, and championing the sport in South Africa. We sat down with Dylan to discuss his journey, South African Padel League and the bright future of Padel on home soil.

The Journey into Coaching

Dylan’s love for Padel began with a friend’s introduction. “I was looking for something competitive but social, and Padel ticked both boxes,” he says. From the first game, he was hooked. As his skills grew, so did his desire to help others improve.

“Transitioning to coaching wasn’t smooth sailing,” Dylan admits. “The biggest challenge was learning to communicate—breaking down advanced techniques into simple, actionable steps.” Over time, he found his rhythm, adapting his style to match players’ goals.

“For beginners, I focus on building confidence and keeping it fun. For advanced players, it’s about refining tactics and pushing them to think critically.”

Watching players progress is the ultimate reward. “Seeing someone go from struggling with their serve to nailing it in a match—it’s unbeatable.”

South African Padel League: A Platform for Growth

The idea for the South African Padel League was born out of a need for structured competition. “We looked at leagues overseas and thought, why not here?” Dylan explains. The vision is clear: promote Padel, provide opportunities to compete and grow the community.

The league sets itself apart by prioritizing inclusivity. “We’re not just about elite competition. We want to engage players of all levels, from juniors to seasoned pros.”

In its first year, the league will host regional tournaments, a national championship, and workshops for players and fans alike.

“We’re focusing on partnerships with schools and clubs to get juniors and women involved. Open days and free training sessions will introduce Padel to a wider audience.”

The Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Padel’s growth in South Africa faces hurdles like limited courts and low awareness. “It’s a challenge, but the interest is there. With more facilities, events, and visibility, we’ll overcome these barriers.”

Local clubs, Dylan says, are critical to this growth. “They’re the heartbeat of the sport. Clubs are where skills are built, and communities are formed.”

Dylan’s league is already laying the groundwork. “We’re creating mentorship programs so aspiring players can learn from seasoned coaches. The goal is to provide technical skills and mental preparation for competition.”

Spotting Talent and Future Stars

Dylan is optimistic about the rising talent pool. “I recently watched a young player win against more experienced competitors—her determination was incredible. If we support players like her, there’s no reason we can’t compete on the international stage.”

The South African Padel League will also serve as a springboard for players to gain global exposure. “We’re building pathways for our players to showcase their talent abroad—through tournaments, international partnerships, and overseas clubs.”

Community, Sponsorship, and Beyond

Building a fanbase and engaging the local community are key priorities. “Social media will play a huge role in telling player stories, sharing highlights, and fostering excitement around events.”

Sponsorship is another focus. “We’re looking to partner with brands that share our vision of promoting health, sport, and community. Events and activations will create value for both brands and the league.”

Dylan’s Vision for South African Padel

Looking ahead, Dylan sees a bright future. “In five years, I want the South African Padel League to be a cornerstone of the sport in Africa. I want thriving clubs, junior development programs, and South African teams competing internationally.”

His advice to young players? “Stay curious, practice as much as possible, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s a coach or a teammate, learning from others is the best way to improve.”

With leaders like Dylan driving the sport forward, Padel’s journey in South Africa is just getting started.