19/06/2026
Thank you 🙏 Wigan Council
“Often people just want to talk... it doesn't really matter what it’s about.” 🗣️
Riki is the co-founder PadelParx, a social padel club at Wigan’s Cotton Works where the focus is as much about mental health and connection as it is physical fitness.
As a member of our Wigan Manbassadors network, he’s passionate about supporting the men’s wellbeing, and encouraging healthy conversations.
Riki says: “I’ve previously worked in the hospitality industry and burn out/addiction – and, therefore, poor health - is all too common.
“Also, even though I’m from a relatively small town in New Zealand, I know a number of people who have taken their own lives. That’s why I want to help in any way possible.”
For Riki, sports like padel can play an important role in improving the health of our communities.
“As soon as I started playing padel I knew that it improved my mood and my mental health,” he explains. “It gave me some of the exercise that I was missing. Being outdoors and playing a sport with your mates is hard to beat.
“People are often so busy that they don't have an opportunity to just sit and chat. At Padel Parx I make sure the team are welcoming, friendly and chatty. They will have a conversation with anyone if that person wants to have a conversation.
“We have a weekly Padel Pals session and I believe it’s definitely helped some people.
"If there are 12 guys playing padel every week then then there will be at least one that's had a bad day, week or maybe an even longer… and just having that freedom to get outdoors, get active, meet new people, develop a new skill and have a laugh will have improved their mood.”
Our Wigan Manbassadors network includes more than 70 local businesses, voluntary groups, charities and other organisations who are passionate about supporting the health and wellbeing of men across the borough. 🫶
Want to know more? Head to the link in the comments.
