Businesses serve up charity padel tournament

A North East charity sports event is set to make a racket for a good cause, bringing together businesses to raise funds for young people across the region.

Newcastle-based video-first marketing agency B7 has partnered with accountancy firm Blu Sky to host a charity padel tournament in aid of NE Youth and YMCA Newcastle.

Taking place on Tuesday, 30 June, the event will bring together 32 teams from businesses across the region, with organisers aiming to raise £3200 through £100 team entry fees.

Companies including Clive Owen LLP, Evelyn Partners, FRP, Seriös Group, Muckle LLP, NEL Fund Managers and Mincoffs have signed up, alongside a range of entrepreneurs, founders and business leaders.

The tournament builds on the growing popularity of padel among the business community, with B7 and Blu Sky using the sport as a way to connect organisations while supporting local causes.

David Broom, founder of B7, said: “Padel has become a brilliant way for people in business to spend time together in a setting that feels natural, active and genuinely enjoyable.

“Like golf, it gives people a chance to step away from the usual meeting room environment, look after their wellbeing and build relationships. 

“We felt there was a real opportunity to take that energy and turn it into something that could support the wider community.”

The chosen charities both work to help young people build confidence, access opportunities and develop their potential.

YMCA Newcastle was selected following Blu Sky's previous involvement with the organisation, while B7 has worked closely with NE Youth on projects highlighting the experiences and achievements of young people across the region.

David added: “NE Youth and YMCA Newcastle both do important work with young people across the region, and they are charities we have a personal connection to through previous projects, introductions and events. 

“The response from businesses has been fantastic, and it is great to see so many people willing to get behind the day.”

Steve Robinson, chief financial officer and chief growth officer at Blu Sky, added: “Padel has become the networking event people actually want to attend – and that says something about where business relationships are heading. 

“We've seen it ourselves: the conversations that happen on a padel court are different to the ones in a boardroom. 

“When B7 and Blu Sky began sharing ideas on something that genuinely matters to the region, it was an easy yes. 

“YMCA Newcastle is close to us; we’ve seen the work they do with young people who just need someone to invest in them. 

“If we can raise serious money while doing something we enjoy, that's exactly the kind of initiative Blu Sky wants to be part of.”

With almost all team places already filled, organisers hope the event will not only raise valuable funds but also strengthen connections within the North East business community while supporting the next generation.

Businesses interested in supporting the event can contact David at david.broom@weareb7.com and Steve at steven@blusky.co.uk. 

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