Category: News

Beyond the Game: Padel and Social Connection

Padel has emerged as one of the fastest-growing global sports phenomena in recent years, capturing the attention of investors and enthusiasts alike. However, while the rise of padel is impressive, there’s a more significant trend underlying its success: the search for meaningful connections in an increasingly isolated world. Padel, though powerful, is merely an ingredient in a broader solution to one of society’s most pressing challenges—loneliness. We need to be aware of this in order to build sustainable and profitable padel facilities. Padel: More than Just a Sport At its core, padel offers a unique blend of athleticism and social interaction. Unlike many traditional sports, where competition takes center stage, padel thrives on the social bonds it fosters. Players are drawn not just by the thrill of the game, but by the opportunity to connect with others. This is especially relevant in a world where loneliness has become a growing issue, as factors like remote work, flexible schedules, and retirement generate more free time—time that padel facilities are uniquely positioned to fill by offering a space for meaningful social interaction. Padel, therefore, stands out because it provides a structured, yet informal, environment where people can meet, socialize, and forge lasting relationships. For many, it’s easier to form connections through shared active, health-conscious activities like padel than through traditional social settings, such as bars or clubs…or Tinder. In this sense, padel is more than just a sport—it’s an antidote to loneliness. Tribal vs. Community: The Distinction To fully understand the future potential of padel, it’s essential to recognize the distinction between tribal and community dynamics. Padel is not just about building communities; it is inherently a “tribal phenomenon”. This is a critical distinction that defines its limits and its power. Tribes, unlike communities, have a deeper, more instinctual bond. They are united by shared identity and purpose rather than by proximity or convenience. A strong parallel can be drawn with the concept of Soho House, a social club that emphasizes community by attracting a like-minded crowd, making the concept work effectively. In contrast, padel facilities, with their tribal nature, cater to a much broader audience united by a shared passion for the sport and the desire for connection. While this broad appeal is a strength, it also poses a risk: attracting such a diverse crowd may, over time, dilute the identity of the club. Without a well-defined concept, padel clubs may struggle to maintain a distinct character, making it essential to invest in strong branding and clear positioning. If handled wisely, this tribal identity makes padel a powerful component in the evolving landscape of social clubs. It can serve as the foundation for multiple social experiences, which brings us to the central point: Padel is an ingredient, not the entire dish. The broader industry is hospitality, and the real opportunity lies in leveraging padel as part of a holistic solution to combat loneliness. The Role of Branding in Padel Facilities As padel continues to grow, the future of padel facilities will hinge on branding. Non-branded clubs will inevitably become undervalued, turning into commoditized service providers where the focus is purely on the game. These facilities will lack the emotional connection that can transform a space into a vibrant social hub. Without a clear identity, they’ll struggle to attract and retain players in the long term. Successful padel facilities of the future will be those that create and maintain strong, branded concepts. These concepts should focus on the broader social experience, incorporating padel as a key ingredient in a lifestyle offering that addresses loneliness. Facilities that fail to invest in branding and identity will face a harsh reality: they’ll be viewed as commodity clubs, offering a basic service for minimal cost. Take many of the clubs that rely solely on aesthetic appeal, for example. Though they may be nicely packaged, they often lack a deeper connection to their audience. These are commodity clubs—functional, but not exceptional. While they may meet the immediate needs of their members, they fail to tap into the true potential of padel as a tribal and social experience, making them ultimately unsustainable in the long run. Padel as Part of the Solution In conclusion, the future of padel facilities lies not only in recognizing the sport’s growing popularity, but in understanding its deeper role within the hospitality industry. Padel is a powerful tool for fostering social connections, yet its long-term success will depend on creating meaningful, branded experiences that go beyond the game. By embracing padel’s tribal nature and integrating it into broader, well-conceptualized social club formats, facility owners can create vibrant, sustainable environments. Without a strong identity and clear focus, padel clubs risk becoming commoditized services. The key will be to invest in branding and to align padel offerings with the broader societal need for connection, ultimately positioning padel as a vital component of modern hospitality. Pierfrancesco Iazeolla – CEO WSBSPORT Follow us for more padel tips and news! If you want to take advantage for our advice for your sports club get in touch with us!

WSBSPORT Announces Strategic Expansion into the growing UK Padel Market with Padel Ventures partnership.

The partnership will provide Premium Consulting Services and high quality courts to public and private venues throughout the UK. WSBSPORT, a global leader in consultancy services for the sports industry, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Padel Ventures. This collaboration marks WSBSPORT’s official entry into the UK market, with a shared mission to deliver top-tier consulting and development services for the rapidly growing padel sector. Through this partnership, WSBSPORT and Padel Ventures will provide comprehensive planning, consulting, and development services to individuals, businesses, and organisations looking to establish or expand padel facilities in the UK, a nation that boasts a rich racket sports history. With WSBSPORT’s extensive experience and successful track record in over 200 projects worldwide, and PadelVentures’ deep understanding of the UK sports market, this collaboration is set to become the cornerstone of the UK’s padel industry growth trajectory. “We are very pleased to announce Gareth Evans of Padel Ventures will be part of our UK entry strategy,” said Pierfrancesco Iazeolla, CEO of WSBSPORT. “Gareth brings almost 20 years’ of experience in sport as a professional athlete and business consultant. As a result, he knows the industry extremely well and draws on a rich network to support our mission to introduce high-quality padel services to the UK market. WSBSPORT provides planning, consulting, and development services for individuals and companies who want to develop a profitable and cost-efficient padel business. We can help from start to finish. WSBSPORT has a unique and distinct role to play in the development of the UK padel market, having pioneered and been part of this industry since the beginning. We believe the partnership with Padel Ventures will help us promote padel and bring our know-how to sport, leisure, community, and residential venues throughout the United Kingdom.” Under the leadership of Pierfrancesco Iazeolla, who leads a group of architects, engineers, designers, marketing specialists, and sport managers operating across five continents, WSBSPORT has established itself as a key force in the global sports consultancy industry. The company’s role in the UK market will focus on guiding clients through the entire lifecycle of padel project development, from initial planning and feasibility studies to marketing and operational support, ensuring that each project is both profitable and sustainable. “WSBSPORT’s entrance into the UK market is a significant milestone for both our company and the sport of padel,” said Gareth Evans, Founder of Padel Ventures. “Together, we aim to fill a void in the British market by offering unmatched consulting services that not only help our clients succeed in the padel industry but also set new standards for quality and professionalism in the UK.” As part of their strategy, WSBSPORT and Padel Ventures are committed to raising awareness of their consulting expertise through media engagements and interviews. Both Iazeolla and Evans will be available to discuss the partnership and their vision for padel’s future in the UK. This effort will enhance WSBSPORT’s reputation and build trust in its consulting services on an international scale. The first consulting projects under this partnership are already in motion, with a focus on helping clients navigate the unique challenges and opportunities within the UK’s emerging padel market. These services are designed to cater to a wide range of clients, from sports and leisure operators to community organisations and residential developers. About WSBSPORTWSBSPORT is a world-leading brand in consultancy, design, and construction of sports facilities, specialising in 5-a-side soccer and padel clubs. With over 25 years of experience, WSBSPORT offers a complete solution including feasibility studies, market research, financial planning, branding, architectural master planning, and project management. Our state-of-the-art sports equipment and fields, ranging from indoor and outdoor soccer pitches to padel and pickleball courts, are designed for safety, performance, and customisation. We have successfully completed over 200 projects across five continents, ensuring each project thrives under optimal conditions. Our offices are located in Europe and the USA, enabling us to provide ongoing support and professional advice globally. For more information, visit www.wsbsport.com. About Padel VenturesLaunched in late 2023, Padel Ventures offers the UK’s only end-to-end padel project services, covering everything from planning and design to groundworks and court installation. Led by industry expert and former rugby union professional Gareth Evans, Padel Ventures partners with the world’s top suppliers to ensure the highest quality standards. By the end of 2024, Padel Ventures will have completed 34 courts across 20 various projects for both private and commercial clients. Padel Ventures aims to be at the forefront of the nation’s padel boom, helping clients navigate this rapidly growing sport and ensuring successful project outcomes. As we continue to grow, we are expanding our sales and technical teams, with 2025 poised to be a landmark year for padel in the UK. WSBSPORT Jazmin Kuan Veng Fusion Communications | WSBSPORT     (+39) 3453284185  Email: jazmin@fusioncommunications.com www.wsbsport.com Padel Ventures Gareth Evans Managing Director | Padel Ventures Ltd (+44) 7872013852 Email: gareth@padelventures.co.uk https://padelventures.co.uk/about-padel-ventures/

Tax and Sport Clubs: 3 Things You Have to Know

Thoroughly know and fully control the tax status of sport clubs can be complex. Many wonder, “are sport clubs tax exempt?” Here’s a breakdown of the key points you need to know. Eligibility for Tax-Exempt Status To be tax-exempt, sport clubs often qualify under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 501(c)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code. If you want more info you can check a detailed guide here. Filing Requirements Tax-exempt sports clubs must comply with annual filing requirements based on their gross receipts. Clubs need to maintain detailed records of income and expenditures, especially if they have nonmember income, to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Income Restrictions To maintain tax-exempt status, sports clubs must adhere to income limitations from nonmember sources. Moreover, clubs cannot distribute profits to members, either directly or indirectly, such as through reduced membership fees from nonmember income. Are sport clubs tax exempt? Yes, they can be, provided they meet specific IRS requirements. Whether organized under 501(c)(3) for charitable purposes or 501(c)(7) for social and recreational activities, maintaining compliance with IRS regulations is crucial. Keep these three key points in mind to navigate the complexities of tax exemption for sport clubs successfully. For further details on filing and compliance, visit the IRS website or consult with a tax professional. Understanding these requirements will help ensure your sport club benefits from its tax-exempt status while avoiding potential pitfalls. Follow us for more soccer tips and news! If you want to take advantage for our advice for your sports club get in touch with us!

4 Soccer Field Positions to Know for Your Line-Up

Understanding soccer field positions is crucial for any team, especially in the fast-paced world of 5-a-side indoor soccer. Each role requires specific skills and responsibilities to ensure a well-rounded and effective team. Here’s a breakdown of the four main positions you need to know for your 5-a-side line-up: Goalkeeper (GK) The goalkeeper is the backbone of the defense. Their primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. In 5-a-side soccer, the goalkeeper’s responsibilities include: Goalkeepers must also be adept at playing the ball with their feet, as indoor soccer often involves more passing back to the keeper under pressure. They also need very good hand throwing as the goalkeeper’s throw-in is mainly done with the hands. Defender The defender, often referred to as the “last man”, is the main defensive anchor of the team and is positioned as the low point of the team. Key responsibilities include: A good defender needs strength, tactical awareness, and the ability to communicate effectively with teammates to organize the defense​ Wingers In 5-a-side soccer, wingers play a crucial role in both offense and defense. Their responsibilities include: Wingers need to be fast, agile, and possess excellent dribbling and crossing abilities to effectively contribute to the team’s dynamics​ Pivot/Striker The forward, also known as the pivot, is the primary goal scorer. Their main tasks include: Pivots need excellent shooting accuracy, speed, and the ability to make quick, intelligent runs to outmaneuver defenders Mastering these four positions is essential for any 5-a-side indoor soccer team. Each role has unique demands and requires specific skills to ensure the team’s overall success. By understanding and optimizing these positions, you can create a balanced and competitive line-up that is ready to take on any challenge on the soccer field. Follow us for more soccer tips and news! If you want to take advantage for our advice for your sports club get in touch with us!

A Big Future Ahead: WSBSPORT’s 5 a side journey in the USA.

The 5 a side in recent years has exploded in the U.S.A. taking ground even compared to the most historically practiced sports on American soil such as basketball, an example of this is the conversion of many basketball courts in 5 a side. WSBSPORT is the main player in this market and the experience gained in the U.S.A. has allowed us to become the market leader; we talk about the future of 5 a side with Miguel Bonilla, WSBSPORT’s Global Sales Manager. 1.      How can be described the journey of the 5 a side in the US? 1.      How can be described the journey of the 5 a side in the US? After more than 20 years in the industry, being world leaders in the construction of fields and development of 5-a-side soccer complexes, we decided to undertake a new adventure in the USA. Since 2015 WSBSPORT has been building the foundations in this country to grow slowly but steadily and we are reaping the fruits of that work being today the absolute market leader. It is a great satisfaction for our company to be the reference for all American entrepreneurs who want to open a small sided soccer complex. 2.      What are the fundamental points of the success of 5 a side in American market? 2.      What are the fundamental points of the success of 5 a side in American market? The American customer is very demanding in terms of quality, not only in the product but also in the service. We are the only company in the USA that offers a solid product in all its components and at the same time aesthetic because our fields have that Italian design that distinguishes ourselves. In addition, we are very careful in the engineering of the fields to guarantee their solidity and safety of the players. More than 20 years of experience have allowed us to develop the most advanced product. As far as service is concerned, customers prefer to work with us because in addition to offering the best small sided soccer fields on the market, we offer a turnkey service that includes an installation with teams of qualified local installers with whom we ensure a very efficient after sales service and we provide consulting services with which we ensure that the projects are sustainable, generate a quick ROI and profitability. 3.      How owning a 5 a side club has changed over the years? 3.      How owning a 5 a side club has changed over the years? The ideal 5v5 facility should now be a global entertainment experience that starts from the organization to the after match and beyond, and we bring undisputed advice and know-how that are fundamental to the success of the club. Operators are also betting on the digitalization of the practice. We now offer tools that film matches and provide players with real-time statistics. Players can record their best goals at the touch of a button located inside the field or on a wristband that they can wear, then review their actions and share them on social media. It displays the number of balls touched, running speed, number of goals scored. Sports tourism is also getting bigger, and we have created connections with the most important european 5v5 soccer networks to develop joint competitions. 4.      What are the perspective of 5 a side in the US and how these will impact the business? 4.      What are the perspective of 5 a side in the US and how these will impact the business? Soccer is growing by leaps and bounds in the USA and we expect 5-a-side to go hand in hand with that growth. The 2026 World Cup will be a “lightning rod” that will inspire more American children to take up the sport so we expect this boom to be reflected in the number of new complexes and we will be there to meet that demand. 5.      How will WSBSPORT invest in the US market to support the 5 a side growth 5.      How will WSBSPORT invest in the US market to support the 5 a side growth Our plans for this market with great potential are very ambitious. I can’t reveal too much at the moment, but I can say that we are investing money to be able to meet all the demands of American customers. We have always been pioneers and promoters of innovation in our sector and the American market motivates us to continue with this approach.

WSBSPORT & LAB FIVE: 5 A SIDE AND EXPERTISE SERVICES IN THE US

LAB FIVE and WSB SPORT are partnering to provide the best five a side soccer fields and expertise services in the US market.  LAB FIVE and WSB SPORT are partnering to provide the best five a side soccer fields and expertise services in the US market.  “WSB Sport is a premium strategic company for LAB FIVE’s development across the country as they have a strong knowledge of the US market. They are definitely a real partner for LAB FIVE with very good quality products and services and expert team” says Sebastien Abonnel, CEO and Founder of Lab Five. Sebastien Abonnel, CEO and Founder of Lab Five LAB FIVE is a specialist developer and operator of 5-a-side soccer centers in the US, starting with the opening their first centers here in California (Los Angeles) in 2020 and San Jose in 2021.  LAB FIVE develops innovative systems and fosters avant-garde technologies to enrich the game and help players hone their skills. Committed to diversity and inclusiveness, LAB FIVE gathers common ground amateurs, enthusiasts, and professionals, who share the values of equality, fairness and humanity. We highlight human experience, with a pinch of performance. The Technology serves the competitive spirit, but having fun is at the core of the game. Coming from Europe, the executive team has a 12 year extensive and experienced background in the five a side industry. AB FIVE gathers common ground amateurs, enthusiasts, and professionals, who share the values of equality, fairness and humanity. With a long term vision and strong ambition, LAB FIVE is acquiring and developing five a side soccer centers in different parts of California initially and elsewhere in the US over the longer term. A second round of fundraising is completed with a French Entrepreneur to move forward and develop 4 others locations in the US. LAB FIVE is acquiring and developing five a side soccer centers in different parts of California 4 others locations in the US. The Los Angeles soccer center operates leagues, rentals, pick-up games, academy for Kids, but also camps/clinics and corporate league and events, provides 8 five-a- side fields each are equipped with the latest generation of turf, high quality rebound walls, and a net surrounding the field plus cameras to record the game but also statistic tools, in short, Lab Five has all the equipment required to provide the best soccer experience ever. It offers club house which includes food and beverages corner and a terrace is well positioned to enjoy the LA weather.  LAB FIVE is also equipped with a big outdoor tv screen to enjoy all games during  game night. You should visit…. You should visit….

A CONVERSATION WITH MATS JONMARKER

Mats Jonmarker is the CEO and founder of MTJ Sports, an Illinois based company since 2006, and a leading supplier and installer of indoor and outdoor sports surfaces and equipment in the United States. MTJSPORTS has partnered with WSBSPORT to offer complete indoor soccer systems with turf, boards, goals, netting, scoreboards, and bleachers along with with full turnkey installation. Mats Jonmarker MTJSPORTS has partnered with WSBSPORT WSBSPORT and MTJSPORTS recently participated of United Soccer Coaches Convention together. It was the perfect opportunity to ask him a few questions and get to know him better: Mats tell us something about yourself and your passion for the sports world. Mats tell us something about yourself and your passion for the sports world. Mats: I follow different sports with great passion: baseball, golf, hockey, soccer, tennis and more. I coached youth soccer in the 90’s (U10-12 Teams). I play golf on a regular basis and like to work out on regular basis. My passion for sports is simple to me!  It is great for one’s health and offers  good social activity for friends and family.  That is what we promote at MTJ Sports –  more sports and recreation opportunities for people of all ages. Mats: Why did you decide to start a company like MTJ Sports? Why did you decide to start a company like MTJ Sports? Mats: The key questions in our business is always WHY?  That’s how Steve Jobs invented Apple 20 years ago.  MTJ Sports stands for creating more opportunities at higher quality for people to participate in sports and recreation. We believe in working with our customers as a true business partnership. We believe in continuous improvement of sports facilities, in cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships by being open and honest and most of all we believe in keeping our word.  Our word is our bond. Mats: What is your value proposition? What is your value proposition? Mats: We maintain a diverse portfolio of high quality products that uses cutting edge technology to enhance athletic playability. We focus on quality products & services and align with Key vendors and  strategic alliance partners like WSBSPORT.  MTJ Sports Provides access to the Design, Manufacturing & Construction of High-Quality Sports Surfaces & Equipment Mats: What are the characteristics of the American soccer market? In which cities is this sport most practiced? What are the characteristics of the American soccer market? In which cities is this sport most practiced? Mats: You will find that American Soccer market is now growing everywhere throughout the country – rural and urban.  Soccer in America is Booming. Mats: What kind of agreement did you make with WSBSPORT? What kind of agreement did you make with WSBSPORT? Mats: MTJ SPORTS will be committed to promote and install WSB SPORT Systems in mainly the Midwest of America, but also committed to support sales and installation throughout North America and other Countries as needed to make the 5-A-Side Soccer a success for both of us. I researched WSBSPORT and others and found WSBSPORT to show most amount of experience, quality products and desire to develop presence in the North American Soccer market. We are perfect together. Mats MATS JONMARKER: WSBSPORT SALES AGENT | MTJ SPORTS PRESIDENT AND CEO    

WSBSPORT AT UNITED SOCCER COACHES CONVENTION 2021

UNITED SOCCER CONVENTION is the ultimate event for coaches of all levels, sportsmen, investors and sector operators peerless in its opportunity for education, networking, advocacy, and recognition. Due the pandemic situation and to guarantee the safety of all the attendees, all of those opportunities and more will now be delivered in an interactive digital form.  During this event we will have special offers for those who will be interested in jumping on the bandwagon of 5-a-side soccer world. Visit our booth if you want to know more about our  flexible payment plans for existing facilities. Visit our booth if you want to know more about our  flexible payment plans for existing facilities. Our portfolio includes more than 180 projects in 13 countries and 4 continents for Sport facilities such as YMCA (Anaheim, California), Las Vegas Legends (Nevada), Sofive (5 facilities NY, NJ, PA and MD), Le Five (France), Futbol Club (Italy), The Football Center (Dubai), Fit Five (Belgium), US5 Center (Los Angeles, CA), Lab Five (Los Angeles, CA) and PSG Park (China). 180 13 4 The United Soccer Coaches Digital Convention will run Monday-Friday, January 11-15, 2021. United Soccer Digital Convention