The Pollen Club, Manchester

Manchester isn’t short on creative corners, but few capture the city’s character quite like The Pollen Club. Set just off the canal, surrounded by concrete, it feels raw and familiar - industrial pillars & walls framing courts that hum with energy. It’s raw, understated, and effortlessly cool.

On May 2nd, after a week of rain, the sun broke through for the first time in weeks - the kind of warmth that signals summer’s arrival in the North. It was the perfect setting for our first physical event. Invite-only, small, and close to home. The tournament was run by Nil, the Head Coach at The Pollen Club, with players travelling in from across the country to take part. The level of play was strong, but it still had that easy, social feel that makes padel what it is.

Andre and Jamie, who’d made the trip from Newcastle, took the win after a tight 7-6 final. The atmosphere mellowed into the afternoon; people lingered long after the games had finished, sat around in the sun with drinks in hand before heading into the city together.

For us, it was more than just a launch. It was a moment that captured what we’ve been trying to build - a modern reflection of Manchester sport and culture. Close to the noise of the city, but with its own rhythm. Concrete courts, good food, familiar faces, and that first day of summer light bouncing off the glass.