Coach Spotlight: Lee Mahony – From ITF Player to National Coach and the Future of Racket Sports
Lee Mahony is a former ITF player and Malta National Coach whose career spans Europe and the UK, with fresh insights on padel and pickleball’s rise. An SPC member with a wealth of experience across Europe and the UK, Lee shares his reflections on life as a player, coach, and his thoughts on the growing rise of Padel and Pickleball in the racket-sport world.
Q: Good morning Lee, it’s great to have you as a guest in our new series of ‘Coach Spotlights’! Please tell our readers a little about you and your career in tennis so far.
A: Thank you very much for the opportunity to be featured in this great series!
My tennis journey began on the ITF circuit, where I was proud to reach a career-high ranking of 496. It was a thrilling period filled with tough matches, unforgettable rivalries, and a few too many late-night pasta dinners before tournaments!
Each event brought new adventures; travelling to different countries, experiencing new cultures, and learning important life lessons (top tip: always learn how to ask for water in the local language!).
Those on-court battles taught me the value of mental toughness and resilience, qualities that continue to guide me today, both in life and in coaching.
Q: Thanks very much Lee. What would you say would be your career highlight so far?
A: Without question, being appointed National Coach of Malta was one of the proudest moments of my career. Leading the national team was an incredible honour, a mix of strategist, mentor, and cheerleader all in one!
I’ve also had the privilege of working with several UK national players, helping them refine their technique and reignite their love for the sport. Watching them grow, both as players and as people, has been incredibly rewarding.
For me, coaching isn’t just about producing results, it’s about building character and creating an environment where players can thrive. We worked hard, laughed a lot, and celebrated every small victory along the way.
Q: The emergence of Padel and Pickleball is a hot topic right now. What are your personal thoughts?
A: As a lifelong tennis lover, I’ve watched the rise of Padel and Pickleball with real interest. Both sports are brilliant in their own right – fun, accessible, and sociable. They make it easier than ever for people of all ages to pick up a racket and enjoy being active.
The social element is a huge draw. These sports bring friends and families together in a relaxed environment, promoting community, fitness, and connection.
They also offer fantastic health benefits, improving coordination, agility, and cardiovascular fitness. As more people look for ways to stay active, Padel and Pickleball have created a welcoming entry point for beginners — and that can only be a good thing.
That said, I firmly believe tennis will always hold its place as a premier racket sport. Its history, complexity, and gladiatorial energy make it unmatched. The tactical depth and endurance required give tennis a timeless appeal that continues to inspire generations.
Q: How about in the UK — how is Pickleball and Padel impacting clubs specifically at this moment?
A: In the UK, both sports have exploded in popularity… and I don’t see this as a passing fad.
Tennis clubs across the country are investing in new Padel courts to meet demand, which shows there’s genuine, lasting interest. The Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) backing gives both sports additional credibility and helps integrate them into the wider tennis community.
The community buzz is also undeniable. You can now find local Padel and Pickleball groups in almost every region, and the social side makes them especially attractive to new players.
My advice? Jump on the train early! These sports are here to stay, and there’s space for everyone to get involved.
Q: Would you personally recommend tennis clubs to invest in Padel and Pickleball courts?
A: Absolutely, but with a balanced approach.
Adding these facilities can attract new members, increase participation, and enhance community engagement. However, it’s important that this doesn’t come at the expense of tennis itself.
I’d suggest clubs aim for something like a 75/25 split in favour of tennis, where possible. That way, they can embrace innovation without losing the traditions and culture that make tennis special.
By striking the right balance, clubs can create vibrant, inclusive environments that celebrate all racket sports, while ensuring tennis remains at the heart of their identity.
Q: What’s next for Lee Mahony and family?
A: My focus remains on developing talented players and continuing to share my passion for tennis, both in the UK and abroad. Away from the court, family time is my reset… whether that’s watching football, travelling, or simply enjoying time together. The next chapter will definitely involve more coaching, more learning, and hopefully a few more adventures!
Q: Finally, I have a round of quick-fire questions for you!
Winners of Australian Open 2026: Sinner / Świątek
If you weren’t a tennis coach: Property Developer
Football Team Supported: Crystal Palace
Other Sports Followed: Football
Players to watch in 2026: Fils / Fonseca
Go-to Takeaway: Thai
Favourite Car: Maserati
Pick one of Padel, Pickleball, or Beach Tennis: Only Tennis for me!
Conclusion
Lee Mahony’s journey captures everything that makes great coaches stand out — dedication, adaptability, and an enduring love for the game. His balanced view on the evolution of racket sports reflects both wisdom and passion — traits that continue to shape the next generation of players.
At SportsProsConnect, we’re proud to have Lee as part of our global coaching community — a coach who continues to inspire, lead, and give back to the sport.
👉 Check out Lee’s SPC profile: Visit https://sportsprosconnect.com/profiles/leemahony/
👉 Or his website: https://www.mahonytennis.com/
👉 Ready to explore global coaching opportunities? Visit www.sportsprosconnect.com/jobs/
👉 Become an SPC member today for access to exclusive jobs, profile support, interviews, and networking with coaches like Lee around the world.
