Rising star turns padel into purpose to support Breast Cancer UK

A rising star in the UK padel community, 23-year-old West Midlander Ben Coeulle has planned a series of fundraising events in 2025 to raise money for Breast Cancer UK.

Ben’s motivation to fundraise came after news of his cousin’s breast cancer diagnosis earlier in the year. At just 32 years old, Danielle had found a lump in one of her breasts. The cancer had since spread to her lymph nodes and for several months she underwent chemotherapy treatment. She then underwent surgery followed by a year-and-a-half of radiotherapy.

The British padel player, who was ranked 28th in Great Britain, said: “Watching her navigate such a life-changing illness was incredibly tough. It showed me just how vital it is to support breast cancer research and raise awareness. I was determined to make a difference.”

How to put the ‘fun’ in fundraising

His first fundraiser took place in his hometown, where he ran the Royal Sutton Fun Run in Sutton Coldfield with his brother, Louis. The event, open to people of all ages and abilities, encouraged participants to raise money for good causes. Although not a keen runner, Ben endured the 8.5-mile run and raised more than £800 in donations.

Next came a series of padel events across the UK. This included an invite-only tournament in Manchester on 4–5 July, where Ben continued training while boosting his fundraising efforts. Comedian Jason Manford even joined him on court!

The biggest event took place at We Are Padel Derby on 12 July – where Ben trains four or five times a week. More than 40 people competed in tournaments across the 11 courts until one player claimed the title.

The event was open to the public and created a party atmosphere with padel, music and food while also raising awareness and vital funds for the charity. Organisers encouraged supporters to wear blue or orange to match the charity’s colours.

Ben, who works for HSBC in the commercial banking team, said: “The padel community is really social and everyone was keen to support me and help stage the tournament in Derby. Every step I took and every point I played was dedicated to helping Breast Cancer UK continue their amazing work in preventing breast cancer, supporting those affected and funding vital research. No woman or man should suffer from this type of illness.”

Why a passion for padel?

Ben’s passion for padel came from his dad, who played in Great Britain Masters competitions. He started playing socially about five years ago, but for the last two years has been competing in tournaments. His aim is to climb the rankings board and become one of the top 10 padel players in Great Britain by the end of the year.

His education at an independent school instilled in him a love of sport and the drive to never be idle. He also plays water polo – previously coaching the England team – and is a big advocate for keeping active and healthy.

Breast Cancer UK estimates that at least 30% of breast cancer cases in the UK could be prevented by making lifestyle changes. This equates to around 17,000 breast cancer cases each year.

Being active reduces the risk of breast cancer by around 20%. Physical activity is thought to lower the level of certain circulating hormones and reduce inflammation. This helps to lower the likelihood of breast cancer developing and progressing.

Ben was keen to raise money for Breast Cancer UK to help fund the research work the charity undertakes.

“All the research you do to try and resolve the issue is so important. I didn’t want to do it for a mainstream charity. Breast Cancer UK felt more personal and had a family kind of vibe which really appealed to me,” he added.

What next?

His fundraising target is £1,500. However, he aims to exceed it by arranging even more padel events before the end of the year.

To follow Ben’s fundraising journey check out his Instagram @ben_coeulle_padel and to make a donation visit his JustGiving page. 

Has Ben’s story inspired you to take on a challenge of your own to support Breast Cancer UK? Find out how you can start your own fundraising effort by clicking here, or contact the team here to get started!