NWG Arena in Prato is the headquarters of NWG Padel Evolution, the training programme launched by NWG Italia. The venue lists 12 padel courts, including a central arena with more than 400 seats, alongside three tennis courts, four pickleball courts and spaces for physical preparation, physiotherapy and recovery.
Maxi Sánchez takes technical charge of the programme
Maxi Sánchez has been appointed technical director of NWG Padel Evolution. The former world No. 1, who reached the top in 2018, is tasked with shaping the project’s sporting methodology, with Shark Academy serving as its training arm. The programme targets young players as well as coaches and clubs joining the national network of affiliated centres announced by NWG.
When the project was presented at the Italian Padel Awards, Sánchez linked his new role to passing on the experience gained during his professional career.
Develop tomorrow’s young talents.
Sánchez’s remit extends beyond sessions held in Prato. NWG Padel Evolution plans a scouting system, coach education pathways and a shared methodology for affiliated clubs.
AiBall adds video and data to coaching
NWG Arena is integrating AiBall technology to analyse training sessions and matches. Cameras and software process playing sequences to generate indicators on shot accuracy, rally length, movement and selected tactical patterns. Players and coaches can then use those data points to follow specific aspects of performance and compare progress over time.
AiBall also has a direct link with tools already selected by international governing bodies. In January 2026, the FIP Academy selected AiBall as its official AI supplier. The federation says the algorithms cited in its validation work exceed 95% accuracy. NWG describes the technology as support for the coach rather than a replacement for human analysis.
A measurable target for the Italian network
NWG Padel Evolution plans to use Prato as the development centre for a national network of affiliated clubs. Antonio Rainone, the project’s patron and NWG co-founder, has set a concrete target: helping at least two Italian athletes establish a stable place in the world ranking.
Sánchez’s methodology, coach education and video analysis are the three operational components announced for that goal. NWG Arena is intended to function as a training base, a player-monitoring site and a coordination point for clubs entering the programme.
