Looking ahead to 2026–27

Michaelmas is only a few weeks away, and the club is preparing for its second season in the National University Padel League. This is what lies ahead.

A bigger league

The NUPL keeps growing. UK PADEL, the league's title sponsor, says that 28 universities and more than 450 players will take part in 2026–27, up from 20 universities last season. To make room for them, the league is moving from four regional conferences to five by adding a new London conference. We will publish our conference, opponents and fixture dates on the Events page once the league confirms them.

Last season set a high standard. In our first year in the league, two of our men's pairs qualified for the national Finals Day at Rocket Padel in Bristol in April. The task now is to build on that in all three divisions.

Freshers' Fair

The club will be at the Oxford SU Freshers' Fair at the Examination Schools on the High Street on Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 October. Come and say hello, whether you have played for years or have never held a padel racket. If you cannot make it, register your interest online and we will send you details of taster sessions.

Trials, training and Cuppers

If you would like to be considered for the league squad, register your interest and we will send you details of trials. In term, training takes place on weekdays at Smash Padel Oxford in North Hinksey. Our partnership with the venue gives members reduced booking fees, free racket rental and booking times reserved for them. Smash Padel Oxford is due to add three canopy-covered courts in late 2026, which will allow play all year round. On Sundays in term the courts also host Cuppers, the inter-college competition.

The Varsity Match

Hilary Term brings the Varsity Match against Cambridge, expected in the seventh or eighth week of term. We will confirm the date and venue nearer the time.

Follow @oxfordunipadel for news through the year. We look forward to seeing you on court.