In an exclusive interview, Miami’s Coles family reveals how a casual invitation to play padel ignited a passion that’s now shaping the sport’s future in America. From Birgit, the “Momager” who fell in love with padel “in 30 seconds,” to her son Mateo, who traded horseback riding for a top-30 US ranking, the Coles embody the explosive growth of this addictive sport. Discover how this dynamic family is turning Miami into a padel powerhouse and why they believe this racket sport is poised to take the nation by storm. Read on for an insider’s look at padel’s rise in Miami, straight from the family at its forefront.
In the sun-soaked city of Miami, where racket sports have long been a staple, one family is leading the charge in the rapidly growing world of padel. Meet the Coles, a dynamic family whose passion for padel is not only shaping their lives but also contributing to the sport’s explosive growth in the United States.
At the helm of this padel-loving clan is the matriarch, affectionately known as the “Momager”, Birgit. She shared that the family’s journey into padel began with a simple invitation from her nephew Johan to try out a “fun new game” at her brother-in-law’s house. With a strong tennis background, she found herself instantly smitten. “I absolutely fell in love with it in 30 seconds,” she recalls, a sentiment that would soon spread throughout her family.
The Coles family’s padel prowess is perhaps best exemplified by Mateo, currently ranked 28th in the US. Mateo’s path to padel was anything but straightforward. After playing tennis in his youth, he unexpectedly pivoted to equestrian pursuits, dedicating nearly a decade to horseback riding. It wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic hit, confining many to their homes, that Mateo discovered the family member’s padel court and ignited his passion for the sport.
Eva, Mateo’s sister, was initially hesitant to join the family’s new obsession. However, last March marked a turning point, and she found herself unable to resist the allure of padel. Despite Miami’s scorching summer heat, Eva became a regular on the courts, eventually competing in the US Open and reaching the semifinals in Division 2.
The Coles’ love for padel extends beyond their immediate family. With 12-15 extended family members joining in for occasional mini-tournaments, padel has become a true family affair. This collective enthusiasm has inspired the Coles to invest time and money into growing the sport in the United States, recognizing its incredible social appeal and universal enjoyment.
As Mateo’s career in padel flourishes, his Mother has embraced her role as “Momager,” supporting her son’s ambitions while simultaneously developing her own skills on the court. Drawing parallels to her past involvement in Mateo’s equestrian pursuits, she now finds herself competing in padel tournaments alongside her son. Her primary focus, however, remains on supporting Mateo’s career and facilitating connections with experienced coaches from padel-rich regions like Spain and South America.
The Coles consider themselves fortunate to be at the epicenter of padel’s growth in the US. With approximately 10 new clubs opening in the South Florida area alone in the past year, they have a wealth of options for play. Their favorite spot? The Design District Reserve, though they’re known to frequent courts all over Miami.
As padel continues its upward trajectory in the US, the Coles family stands as a shining example of how this sport can bring families together while fostering a competitive spirit. Their story is not just about athletic achievement, but about the power of shared passion and the exciting potential of padel in the American sports landscape.
With their combination of talent, enthusiasm, and commitment to growing the sport, the Coles are undoubtedly a family to watch in the world of padel. As the sport gains traction in the US, their influence both on and off the court is sure to play a significant role in shaping its future.
