Richy Bailey

From his early days as a promising player to his current role as a passionate coach, his journey in padel has been marked by significant milestones and a steadfast dedication to excellence. Among these milestones, one moment stands out as particularly memorable: the exhilarating victory of two players he trained over one of Spain’s top pairs. This triumph validated his coaching approach and reinforced his belief that anything is possible through diligent training and the power of teamwork.

For the past 17 years, Coach Bailey has dedicated himself to growing his academy in Malaga, Spain, where he coaches individuals of all levels and ages to unlock their true potential. His coaching philosophy revolves around training the player to develop as a person and vice versa. He firmly believes that padel serves as an exceptional platform for personal growth, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and overall well-being.

In 2023,  Bailey reached another pinnacle in his coaching career as he was appointed head coach of the Finnish national team, a testament to his leadership and coaching abilities. The Finnish federation also entrusted him with the task of elevating their best coaches to a professional level, recognizing his expertise and dedication to the sport.

His coaching journey began in 1998 when he obtained his coaching certification, laying the foundation for a career devoted to nurturing talent and fostering a love for the game. Complementing his coaching credentials, he pursued a degree in Physics from UA in Madrid, reflecting his commitment to both academic rigor and athletic achievement.

As a player, he achieved success on the courts of Madrid, breaking into the top 10 pairs in a fiercely competitive environment. Despite the allure of pursuing a professional playing career, he recognized the challenges inherent in making a living from the sport at that time. Instead, he chose to channel his passion for padel into coaching, where he could make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

Additionally, he boasts an impressive playing career, having represented the US team in six World Championships from 2008 in Calgary to 2018 in Miami. Throughout those years, his team achieved the best results in its history, further solidifying his expertise and commitment to the sport.

As he continues to guide and inspire his students to become the best versions of themselves, he is reminded of the transformative power of sport. Beyond the wins and losses, it’s the journey of self-discovery, the bonds forged, and the lessons learned that define the true essence of padel. And as he looks to the future, he remains committed to empowering his students to pursue their dreams, both on and off the court.