ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Squash Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waterways throughout Australia.
We pay our respects to the Elders of the past, present and emerging, and acknowledge their ongoing connection to land, sea and community.
For they hold the memories, the traditions and the cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the country. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
MattSchmidt
Squash Australia President
05PRESIDENT’S REPORT
I am pleased to present the 2023-2024 President’s Report for Squash Australia.
Our 2022-2026 Squash Australia strategic plan, continues to provide a clear and strong focus for all of our decisions and activities. As a sport we have continued to work closely with our valued stakeholders, seeking to be transparent and collaborative, and lead with enthusiasm.
An example of this collaboration was our annual forum and AGM gathering in Brisbane in November 2023 where our State and Territory Board members and staff, the Squash Australia Board and most Staff, stakeholders and a number of Life Members met face to face. We spent time discussing our strategic areas of focus, sharing best practice, getting a hands-on experience of Squash Stars and gaining valuable updates and insights from the AIS and Australian Sports Commission.
At the 2023 Annual General Meeting, Board members Simon Weatherill finished his term due to overseas work commitments and John Cowling also finished on the Board. John and Simon contributed many hours to our sport, and worked diligently to set up many processes. The Board extended Cindy Flower’s appointment for a further term. In January 2024, Simon suddenly passed away which was a great loss to the sport.
There have been many achievements over the 2023-2024 financial year, however some highlights include:
• implementing a new Affiliation system. Moving to a new membership model is a massive operational and logistical challenge, however we are already seeing the benefits of having a clearer record of our player numbers and improved data to drive our Sport;
• hosting the successful World Junior Squash Championships in Melbourne, July 2023 and the return of the Squash Australian Open to the PSA World tour in March 2024;
• the implementation of Squash Stars, our flexible School program, expanding our reach into school settings;
• the announcement in October 2023 that Squash would be included in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. This is a great opportunity to leverage and showcase our Sport on the ultimate world stage;
• our gala awards dinner held in Brisbane in November 2023 celebrating many achievements and contributions to the Sport;
Weareconfidentthatmovinginto2024-2025,wehaveclearstrategicprioritiesandopportunities on which to focus. In collaboration with the Australian Sports Commission we have implemented a Steering Group to explore how we can better collaborate, communicate and work together across our strategic priorities of Participation, Profile, Facilities and Performance. The passion and commitment of our squash community is inspiring, and evident at multiple levels. A sincere thank you for all that you contribute to our sport.
Also, a significant thank-you to our State and Territory member associations for working collaboratively to improve our sport. I would like to personally acknowledge our volunteers, local boards and staff, coaches and officials. As we continue to work better together we can make significant contributions to the sport that we all care so much about.
I would like to thank those that support us financially – the Australian Sports Commission, the AIS and the Commonwealth Games Association of Australia. We are pleased that the Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow in 2026, but disappointed that Squash will not be part of a significantly reduced program.
Its pleasing to see our players are achieving some promising results. We have many talented athletes who are working hard, and a supportive high-performance team, working together towards future success.
I wish to acknowledge and thank the dedicated Squash Australia staff, led professionally by our CEO Robert Donaghue. Our staff are a true asset and work effectively to deliver great outcomes.
The Squash Australia Board continue to lead our sport strategically and I thank the Board members for their contributions.
Thank you to all of the contributors to our great sport throughout 2023-2024. We will continue to develop our organisation, collaboration and increase our engagement to improve the experience for all squash participants in Australia. Thank you to everyone for your contribution. It is a privilege to work with you all.
Matt Schmidt President
07CEO REPORT
Robert Donaghue Squash Australia CEO
It has certainly been another eventful year for Squash in Australia.
The year was of course highlighted by possibly the most important day in the sport’s history - the 16th October 2023 - when the International Olympic Committee voted Squash into the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. So much work has been done behind the scenes for many, many years to make this a reality and there is still so much excitement one year on for the impact that inclusion will have on the sport and for those who could play themselves into the frame for selection.
On the home front the highlight was welcoming the squash world in July 2023 to Australia for the World Junior Championships in Melbourne at the Melbourne Sport & Aquatic Centre.
The long build-up to the event was over when players from across the globe joined us at the MCG for the opening ceremony. Not even the news the following morning that Victoria had pulled out of hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games could dampen the mood.
The World Juniors turned out to be an incredible success. Australia’s players did themselves proud, and the quality of squash from the future stars of our sport was incredible. The Australian women’s team finished their World Championships campaign on a high, becoming the best-performing Australian junior women’s team since 2003 by finishing in seventh.
The event delivered a bigger digital footprint than ever before for the World Squash Federation, and viewers around the country were able to view highlights via 7plus in an agreement that included the broadcast of the City Tattersall’s Group Australian Open.
In September we announced that the City Tattersalls Group Australian Open would shift to March 2024 in a realignment of the tournament within the PSA Tour schedule. Later in the year we were given approval
to stage the tournament in the heart of the Sydney, with the glass court on Martin Place set to be a spectacular addition. Whilst the weather ultimately had a significant impact on the Glass Court, this didn’t dimmish the success of the return of the SAO to the PSA World Tour for the first time in over a decade.
In another significant reform, July 2023 saw the launch of the MySquashAUS platform and a national membership model which has moved the sport to individual participant registration and online payment in line with the way other major sports in Australia operate. This provides a sustainable, simpler and fairer way to distribute the costs across our game with all money collected through the Membership model going directly to Squash Australia and State & Territory Associations to help administer and service our game at all levels.
The project has been a significant undertaking, and it could not have been possible without the support of players, coaches, referees, volunteers, clubs and centres around the country.
As I write this report, the Commonwealth Games Federation has confirmed that Squash is one of 13 sports which will not be on the sport program for the Glasgow 2026 Games.
While athletes were originally looking forward to competing at a home Games before Victoria withdrew as hosts last year, they remained hopeful of still having the opportunity to compete in 2026 once Glasgow was announced as the new host city.
With limited preparation time and the need to keep operating costs low, the program in Glasgow was reduced to just 10 sports, however with Scotstoun Sports Complex housing an existing venue that successfully hosted the sport in 2014, squash remained hopeful of inclusion in 2026.
While our inclusion in the program for the LA 2028 Olympic Games provides an unrivalled incentive for our leading players, the Commonwealth Games has been the pinnacle for our players for the last three decades, highlighted by Rachael Grinham carrying the flag into the opening ceremony in 2022 and Australia contributing 11 gold and 33 total medals since 1998.
The announcement is a blow to our athletes who have had their dream of competing in the Commonwealth Games taken away from them.
I would like to acknowledge the continued support of the Australian Sports Commission, the AIS and Commonwealth Games Australia as our major funding partners. The continued support and guidance that they provide SqA is invaluable and critical to our long-term success.
We also look forward to working closely with the Australian Olympic Committee as we embark on our debut Olympic campaign.
Thank you to the states and territories for your continued support and collaboration throughout the year and in particular to the Presidents, Executive Officers and staff.
Finally, a special thanks to the SqA Board & Staff for your great support, commitment and dedication.
Robert Donaghue Chief Executive Officer
HONOUR BOARDS HONOUR BOARDS HONOUR BOARDS HONOUR BOARDS
HALL OF FAME
2022 Heather McKay IMMORTALS
2022 Geoff Hunt
LEGENDS
2005 Ken Hiscoe
2008 Vicki Cardwell
2012 Sarah Fitz-Gerald
2011 Michelle Martin
2022 Rachael Grinham
2022 Chris Dittmar
2022 David Palmer
GENERAL MEMBERS
2022 Albert Armstrong
2022 Colin Clapper
2022 Dean Williams
2023 Chris Sinclair
MEMBERS
2006 Rhonda Thorne
2007 Rodney Martin
2008 Cam Nancarrow
2008 Kevin Shawcross
2008 Rodney Eyles
2009 Sue Newman (King)
2009 Barbara Wall
2011 Liz Irving
2015 Steven Bowditch
2022 Jenny Irving
2022 Marion Jackman
2022 Brett Martin
2022 Women’s Teams 19641967 v UK
2022 Men’s Teams 1967-1971
LIFE MEMBERS
1976 John Cameron
1978 Jean Walker OAM
1981 Heather McKay MBE, AM, AO
1982 Geoff Hunt MBE, AM
1982 Vin Napier OBE
1985 Victor Belsham AM
1985 Neville Johnson OAM
1990 Colin Clapper AM
1993 Bob Finch AM
2007 Margaret Zachariah
2007 Ken Watson
BOARD& CEO PROFILES
With a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of SA in Recreation, Planning & Management, he has 20 years of experience as a successful, results-oriented leader. His extensive background includes education, event delivery, sports management, business development, marketing, and sponsorship. He has considerable experience in strategic planning and delivering effective governance leadership and currently serves as the Executive Director of ACHPER SA (The Australian Council for Health, Physical Education, and Recreation). His areas of specialty include governance, stakeholder management, marketing, and project management. He has held 10 years of directorships across various public, private, and not-forprofit organisations, including Squash South Australia, the South Australian Cricket Association (Game Development), Uni SA Sport (Chair), Sport SA Awards Committee (Chair), Good Shepherd Lutheran School (Chair), and has served as Past President of the Concordia Old Collegians Cricket Club. Additionally, he is the Squash Australia Profile Working Team Chair.
MATT SCHMIDT
Squash Australia President
ALEX DORE
Squash Australia Director
Alex is the founder of Gradeo, an educational technology startup specialising in online assessment. Previously, he was a Director in PwC Australia’s Management Consulting practice, where he led multiple flagship projects in education and skills. He has extensive experience in strategy, process improvement, and project management, along with over a decade of governance expertise in membership-based not-for-profit organisations.
GREG BLYCHA
Squash Australia Director
He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Masters of Business from the University of New South Wales. He is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management WA and earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies (Management) from the University of New England. His qualifications include the Governance Foundations for Not-For-Profit Directors from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, as well as being a graduate of the Royal Military College Duntroon. Additionally, he holds an Advanced Diploma in Personnel Management, an Advanced Diploma in Logistics Management, and a Diploma in Project Management.
His experience includes serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Cranbrook, Chief Operating Officer of Football West, and Director of Operations for the Road Safety Commission WA State Government. He has also served as an Australian Regular Army Officer. He currently holds roles as Chair of the National Facilities Working Group for Squash Australia, Chair of the Nominations Committee for Squash Australia, and is a Nominations Committee Member for Gymnastics WA.
He has considerable experience in leading and managing large teams across Defence, State and Local Government, and the sporting notfor-profit sector, with a focus on strategic planning, governance, sports administration, and continuous improvement.
CINDY FLOWER
Squash Australia Director
Cindy holds a Certificate in Neuroscience from the Neuroscience School in Canada, a Positive Psychology Course from Positive Difference in Melbourne, and has completed the Company Directors Course through the Australian Institute of Company Directors, where she is a member (MAICD). She also has coaching skills certification from the Forton Group in Australia, a Masters in Business Administration from the University of South Australia, a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment from ASC Training and Development, and a Bachelor in Human Resource Management from the University of South Australia.
With over 20 years of expertise in organisational reform and development, Cindy focuses on optimising performance improvement by supporting leaders to identify, develop, and implement innovative solutions to complex cultural challenges. As a self-employed Organisational Change Consultant, she is highly-experienced in gender diversity, governance, and workplace culture. She specialises in organisational change and development, using creative approaches to implement change and efficiently deploy resources. Passionate about shaping an engaged, high-performing culture, Cindy excels at building and leveraging an extensive network and facilitating challenging conversations.
She currently serves as a Director of Squash Australia and a Director for Women in Innovation, and in the past has served as the Chair of Diving SA.
CARMEL ACKERLY
Squash Australia Director
Carmel Ackerly holds a Graduate Certificate in Public Health, is a Lead Auditor for Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001) and has a Master of Management with a thesis on “What Would It Take for Corporates to Invest in Social Enterprises.” She is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA), possesses a Graduate Diploma of Education & Training and a Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary). Additionally, she is a Fellow of the Institute of Leaders and Managers and a member of both the Australian Training and Development and the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Carmel is a leadership, business improvement and change management professional with experience across a wide range of industries, including banking remediation, health, community services, education, government, business, retail, franchising and manufacturing. She is a strategically-focused, values-driven professional whose systemic thinking is underpinned by a solid operational background. Customerfocused, she has proven stakeholder and relationship management skills.
STUART HOGBEN
Squash Australia Director
He holds a Masters in Engineering and Management (MEng) and has 25 years of experience as an executive leader at Ford Motor Company, AOL TimeWarner, Fujitsu, DXC, SoftwareONE, Interactive and Crana Consulting. His roles have included Vice President, Business Unit Director, Managing Director, Managing Consultant, Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer.
He has been a registered Australian Company Director since 2016 and is a member and guest speaker at the CEO Institute. Additionally, he is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and is a Certified Cybersecurity Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), as well as a member of the Australian Information Security Association.
JOANNE MARTIN
Squash Australia Director
She holds a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) certification, a Bachelor of Business (BBus) and a Diploma in Sport & Recreation Management.
She is an experienced board director, deputy chair committee member, chair and corporate executive with extensive expertise in strategic planning, governance and compliance oversight, business growth and transformation, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and organisational performance leadership. Her experience spans various highlyregulated and competitive industries, including community services, education, financial services, and the water industry, across public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Currently she serves as a Board Deputy Chair, non-executive director and as a member of multiple board committees. She is also a strategic planning consultant and a wellbeing micro-business owner with experience in previous roles as committee chair, CEO, CIO, general manager, executive manager and member.
SIMON WEATHERILL VALE
The Squash community was saddened by the sudden passing of former Board member Simon Weatherill on 20 January 2024.
One of the country’s leading sports administrators, Simon was a longstanding member of the Victorian squash community, having coached and managed King Club, Wantirna and Leggetts, Prahran.
He went on to become Chief Executive of the State Sport Centres Trust which includes the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, host venue for a number of prominent tournaments including the 2006 Commonwealth Games and 2023 WSF Junior World Championships.
Simon was elected to the Board of Squash Australia in 2021, with President Matt Schmidt remembering an experienced and dedicated director always looking to take the sport forward.
“Highly regarded in Sports Management, Simon was dedicated in his vision for Squash,” said Schmidt. “With a passion for effective Governance, he strongly advocated the need to maintain existing and seek new facilities and also promote participation at the grassroots.
“We pay tribute to a remarkable professional, an outstanding administrator and highly-respected colleague.”
JENKINS AO
A message from the Chair of the Australian Sports Commission –Kate Jenkins AO
It was an honour to be in Paris for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics and see the incredible performances of our Australian athletes and teams which have left long lasting memories in the hearts of all Australians.
While not every sport the Australian Sports Commission supports was on show in Paris, I know the joy and pride that sport can bring us all, and the opportunities it provides.
As we look towards a home Games in Brisbane in 2032, my vision is for sport to be safe, fair, accessible and inclusive for everyone, with every athlete supported to reach their full potential.
We want to bring out the best in everyone involved in sport because that’s how we will become the world’s best – by working together and bound by a common purpose.
We encourage and help Australians of all backgrounds, ages and abilities to get involved in sport and we advocate for sport and the positive influence it has on the nation.
Our grant programs support athletes, coaches, officials and organisations, while our Sporting Schools program is helping more children access free and fun sporting activities than ever before. More than 9,200 schools are registered with the program and our goal is to reach 32 million participants by Brisbane 2032.
Our high performance sport system is more united than ever through Australia’s High Performance 2032+ Sport Strategy and our shared commitment to Win Well. It was wonderful to see the Win Well ethos alive in Paris and as we approach the end of Horizon 1, see the country’s peak Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games
sporting organisations come together to deliver the best outcomes for our athletes, our sports and for all of Australia.
Likewise, work continues to help Australians to Play Well with stakeholders coming together to discuss how to put the nation’s first codesigned Sport Participation Strategy into action with workshops held across the country.
We are proud that our Australian Institute of Sport Campus has been the home of sport in Australia for over 42 years and a $249.7 million investment from the Australian Government to upgrade our high performance facilities will ensure we continue to be world-leading.
I know success will be greatest when every part of the system is able to perform their role at their best, and I look forward to leading the ASC, including in its work towards ensuring there is a lasting legacy for all Australian sports and the community from this green and gold decade - when the eyes of the world will be on Australian athletes, Australian sport and Australian venues.
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
ZENA WOOLDRIDGE OBE
WORLD SQUASH FEDERATION MESSAGE
A message from the President of the Australian World Squash Federation – Zena Wooldridge OBE
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Dear Friends, as we approach the first anniversary of the announcement of squash’s inclusion in the LA28 Olympic Games, we also transition from IOC recognised sport to Olympic Programme Sport at the start of the new four-year Olympic cycle to LA. Last year’s message talked about the sport’s new trajectory and we’re already seeing heightened interest in squash from various quarters, which is hugely encouraging.
This transition broadly coincides with WSF’s election and strategy cycles, so an appropriate time to reflect on what we’ve achieved as a WSF squash community and via our partners. One of the cornerstones of our 2022-25 strategy is to unite the sport behind a common vision and values. Two values in particular, collaboration and inclusion have been key drivers in our approach. We are a small International Federation with big ambitions and increased (Olympic) responsibilities, but no more resources. Critical to our effectiveness, we have revamped our commissions to be more diverse, more gender balanced and more skills-based, boosting WSF’s capacity and capability. In tandem, our partnership with the Professional Squash Association steadily gains momentum. We recognise we are very different organisations with different roles but have shown we are very definitely stronger together.
WSF’s annual report will be distributed to Member Federations at the end of October, so please do ask Rob for a copy if you’d like to know more about last year’s activities of WSF.
We expect our Olympic plans to gain impetus over the next few months, including LA28’s reveal of the venue, possibly in December. In response to the most frequently asked question from athletes, coaches and federations since last October, we will also start to work with the IOC on squash’s qualification process, with confirmation expected in early 2026. Alongside plans for delivering a spectacular LA28 squash experience is our critical
strategy to keep squash in for Brisbane 2032, driven by the WSF-PSA-SqA partnership. We must draw upon our collective strengths to respond to Brisbane’s process for prospective new sports. This includes boosting squash’s profile in and relationship with Brisbane via a co-ordinated combination of PSA Tour Events and WSF World Championships. Hence, Squash Australia’s current strategy has perhaps never been as important to the future of squash globally; and the importance of WSF’s (and PSA’s) support to accelerate your strategy has probably never been as crucial.
Australia is already one of WSF’s most engaged nations across a broad spectrum of activity: including championships, coach and referee development, and contribution to WSF commissions. On behalf of WSF I’d like to thank our Australian colleagues and friends who dedicate time and expertise either directly or indirectly to WSF’s activities, including three Commission chairs: Sarah Fitz-Gerald (Coaching), David Mandel (Audit & Risk) and Garry Irwin (Masters).
It’s been an incredible last year for squash globally in so many respects, and the WSF Board has become used to dealing with the challenges of operating in an increasingly turbulent and unpredictable environment. As a Federation of Federations, we must continue to consider how we ensure WSF delivers value to our Member Federations whilst also considering the best interests of athletes. In that respect we really value our relationship with Squash Australia, thank you for your engagement and support over the last year, and look forward to our continuing partnership.
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MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS REPORT
Internal and external communications have been a key focus for Squash Australia in the last 12 months with an ever-increasing need to inform, promote and educate to a variety of stakeholders.
The organisational reset nationally onto the MySquashAUS platform has been an administrative challenge, but not one too confronting to overcome as has been witnessed by numerous national sporting organisations undertaking the similar practices in recent times.
Key to the acceptance of such a transition has been clear communication to states, clubs and participants, and this was a key component of the staged rollout onto the RevolutionseSport platform.
While there was always going to be some bumps in the road, Squash Australia used a variety of communication techniques to ensure messaging was clear, accurate and easy to consume. The rollout was staged to reduce the impact of widespread changes taking place all at one time, and in turn, communications were also staged at a similar pace.
Beyond the Break Consulting have continued to be the communications arm of Squash Australia, providing day-to-day support and dedicated marcomms operations at our biggest events. Squash Australia utilises BTB’s resources and network to move forward with dedicated projects such as the presence of the overhauled Squash Stars brand to a wider audience, the creation of Squash Smarts (which will rollout even more extensively in 2024/25), the evolution of the Squash Australia brand and emergency communications plans.
Elsewhere, communications, media and marketing have had a continued point of focus and also opportunity in the last year.
SQUASH AT THE OLYMPICS
Last October’s announcement that our great sport would enter the Olympic programme at LA 2028 will provide wonderful on and off-court opportunities as the Games draw ever-nearer.
When it was evident the IOC would be voting squash in at their October session in 2023, Squash Australia
lobbied the the Australian Olympic Committee to hold a media event celebrating the momentous occasion for all of the sports.
Within 72 hours, CEO Rob Donaghue and Australia’s No.1 player Jess Turnbull were invited to play a central role at a media conference in Sydney which was attended by national sports media. For the first time ever, squash was being being viewed in an official capacity alongside the Olympic rings. It was a significant moment for the sport, and one which achieved widespread media recognition throughout the country.
This also opened the door for national coach Stewart Boswell to appear on Olympic broadcaster Channel 9’s flagship sports show - Wide World of Sports - while Squash Australia was also able to offer and facilitate media requests for legends of the game including Michelle Martin and Sarah Fitz-Gerald.
As the curtain came down on Paris 2024, squash is now placed firmly inside the current Olympic cycle and Squash Australia will continue to work with the AOC and media outlets to achieve even greater visibility outside the sport’s community in the coming years.
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
The success of our major events continues to play a major role in Australia’s place in the sphere of the sport globally.
No bigger change in recent times was the elevation of the Squash Australian Open back into the PSA World Tour. The event obviously went through its
challenges due to external uncontrollable factors, however the media interest generated in the event prior to its relocation augers well for the future. While some national television spots which were secured needed to be rolled back, there was genuine interest in the event across all forms of media and discussions are already taking place ahead of our 2025 event.
From an international perspective, the Australian Junior Open goes from strength to strength on court and our media operations are supporting that. There is widespread demand for high quality imagery for this event not only from domestic participants, but also those travelling from overseas to be a part of it. Images and news stories from these events are being regularly circulated in the media in Pakistan, Malaysia and other nations from which international players are travelling.
Rogue Gun Photography continues to be Squash Australia’s official photographer at our hallmark closed and open tournaments, and the library of images we now have to promote the game is stronger than ever. A dedicated investment in this area in recent times has had the desired outcome and opportunities will continued to be canvassed in terms of day-to-day video content and other archived content which will be relevant in years to come.
Following a tremendous working partnership at the 2023 World Junior Championships, Squash Australia’s relationship with the communications teams at the WSF and PSA means we are often able to now source images and vision of our players participating at tournaments around the world, including World Teams Championships and World Championships qualifying.
LIVE STREAMING
Squash Australia has continued to deliver content at major events for SquashAUS.TV which is powered by the WorldSquash.TV platform.
As was the case with the 2023 World Junior Championships, the 2024 Squash Australian Open was also streamed live on 7plus, one of the country’s most prolific free streaming providers which garners a huge potential audience via the Seven Network.
Squash Australia has also invested in intelligent camera systems which were used at WJC and the Australian Open, which is opening up a richer streaming experience at our other events including the recent Australian Junior Championships in Sydney.
By utilising modern camera equipment and associated software, and developing the MySquashAUS competition module with a streaming component in mind, we are now able to stream multiple courts from our main events complete with on-screen graphics in line with major international tournaments with far larger broadcast budgets.
As live streaming moves to become a fundamental element of nationally-recognised events, we’re proud to now be able to operate this technology in-house which is both cost-efficient as well as satisfying the desires of key stakeholders including participants and their families.
DIGITAL EXPOSURE
Communications across the digital field is the most consistent way we can organisationally communicate with stakeholders on a broad basis, and we continue to work with BTB to create innovative content
solutions in a cost-effective way. Statistics are showing we are delivering content which is garnering more interest and more can still be done.
While our Facebook audience grew by just over four percent last year, engagement with users was up by 37.5%. Following a 36% rise in engagement in 2022/23, it shows we are moving in the right direction.
User impressions were also up 49.8%, spiking during key events such as the Australian Open, Australian Junior Open and Australian National Championships, as well as at the time squash was brought into the LA 2028 Olympics.
Specifically-curated video content has been well-received and across our channels and SqA is getting strong cut-through by collaborating with states and territories on their own posts.
SPORT DEVELOPMENT REPORT
The FY24 period saw substantial progress for Squash Australia, led by key staff and impactful initiatives. Reena Raja took on the role of Sport Development Coordinator in March 2024, leveraging her experience as the longest-serving staff member of Squash Australia. Mia Ararat, from Deakin University, completed her term as Sport Development Intern, making significant contributions to our best-ever Pride in Sport (PSI) submission and our successful Play Well Grant Program.
This year, we strengthened participation through Squash Stars, supported by the Play Well grant, and expanded outreach via events like the Victorian Institute of Sport Open Day and ACHPER Conferences. We also advanced digital engagement with the launch of MySquashAUS and integration of services like SquashLevels, Pivot and SquashTV, setting the stage for FY25 developments.
I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our dedicated volunteers and staff, whose tireless efforts are the backbone of Squash in Australia. Their commitment helps us make squash more accessible and enjoyable, driving our mission to get more people playing the sport, more often. Together, we are shaping a stronger future for squash.
A message from Shaun McEachin, National Lead - Sport Development
Participation and Engagement Play Well
Squash Australia received a Play Well grant from the Australian Sports Commission, supporting Phase 2 of Squash Stars, our National Squash Participation Program. This funding bridges the gap between initial school engagement and ongoing participation at squash centres, promoting lifelong involvement and capitalising on the sport’s inclusion in LA 2028.
Squash Stars - Sporting Schools
In 2024, Squash Stars grew from 12 to 29 programs, with participation rising from 872 to 4,874 children. The program achieved 100% delivery success, with 100% teacher satisfaction in content and resources. Teachers unanimously recommended Squash Stars, reinforcing its impact in school sports.
In Community
Squash Australia showcased the sport at the Victorian Institute of Sport Open Day, engaging over 2,000 participants, and at ACHPER Conferences, where 50 teachers experienced the Squash Stars program. These events expanded our community reach and strengthened squash’s presence in schools.
Expanding Reach through Partnerships
Squash Australia partnered with Gecko and AusISO to broaden the Squash Stars program across New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland. These collaborations have increased participation in metropolitan and regional areas.
Technological and Digital Experience MySquashAUS
MySquashAUS offers clubs and members a seamless platform with integrations for SquashLevels, Pivot bookings and SquashTV. Looking ahead, FY25 will introduce a modern competition management module and integration with the Squash Australia Learning Centre.
Education
In 2024, coach and official development advanced with 12 Level 1 Practical Coach Certification Courses, bringing the total to 114 in progress or certified. Level 2 saw three new coaches and there are currently two Level 3 coaches. Additionally, two new tutors were introduced, supported by bimonthly catch-up sessions.
For officiating, 25 officials are delivering or in progress at Level 1, 15 at Level 2, and seven at Level 3. The program is supported by 11 appraisers, with bi-monthly sessions promoting continuous improvement.
DIVERSITY& INCLUSION
2024 Rainbow Racquets Tournament
Hosted in Sydney, the Rainbow Racquets Tournament attracted participants from across NSW, ACT, Victoria and Brisbane, celebrating diversity and inclusion within the squash community.
Silver Status
Squash Australia achieved Silver status on the Pride in Sport Index in recognition of our continued efforts to foster inclusive environments forLGBTQ+ athletes, coaches, and officials.OurRainbowRacquets program and participation in IDAHOBIT further demonstrate our commitment to diversity.
2023 Men’s World Team Championships
The city of Tauranga in New Zealand hosted the first post-Covid Men’s World Team Championships in December 2023. The four-year gap between events saw Australia field a full lineup of Men’s World Team debutants. Australia’s top ranked male, Joseph White, was joined by World Cup teammate Nicholas Calvert, Commonwealth Games team member Rhys Dowling and Victoria’s Dylan Molinaro, who was making his senior Australian team debut.
Australia’s new-look Men’s team was seeded 14 for the event and faced a young Netherlands team on Day 1 to lock in a top 16 finish. With the tie level at one-rubber all and games level at 1-1 in the deciding match between the number three players, 21-year-old Molinaro showed nerves of steel to win 3-1 and see Australia into the last 16.
Losses to France in the pool round and Switzerland in the round of 16 meant
HIGH PERFOR MANCE REPORT
Australia took on Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand to secure a top 12 finish. After New Zealand’s world number three Paul Coll defeated White 3-0 to put New Zealand ahead in the tie, Molinaro again showed maturity beyond his years, defeating Elijah Thomas 3-0 to level the tie. Rhys Dowling then led 2-0, before staving off a spirited fightback from Temwa Chileshe in the deciding rubber to win 12-10 in the fifth game, seeing Australia to an upset victory against the hosts.
Although the team were unable to climb any higher than 12th, going down to Hong Kong and Malaysia in final two playoff matches, it was an excellent result for a young team. All four men have many years and World Team Championships ahead of them, and their performances in New Zealand showed promising signs for future international championships.
2023 Men’s World Team Championships Team
Nicholas Calvert (QLD)
Rhys Dowling (NT)
Dylan Molinaro (VIC)
Joseph White (NT)
Stewart Boswell (Coach)
Rhys Dowling celebrates after winning the deciding rubber against New Zealand 12-10 in the fifth to upset the hosts and secure a top 12 finish for Australia.
2023 & 2024 Trans Tasman Test Matches
The realignment of calendars in New Zealand and Australia meant there were two junior Trans Tasman Test Matches in the space of five months – December 2023 in Tauranga, New Zealand and April 2024 in Melbourne, Australia.
December 2023 – Tauranga
Australia travelled to New Zealand in December, determined to win away from home for the first time ever. However, they came up against a fired-up New Zealand outfit who made the most of their home soil advantage on Day 1, racing to an 11-5 lead. The New Zealand Under 19s were particularly dominant, sweeping the four boys matches and only losing one girls match. Day 2 turned out to be a much more even affair, with matches tied at 8-8 for the day. New Zealand’s strong result on Day 1 proved to be the difference though, taking back the shield with a 19-13 victory.
The Australian Men’s Team at the Opening Ceremony of the Men’s World Team Championships in Tauranga, New Zealand. From L to R: Stewart Boswell (Coach), Joseph White, Rhys Dowling, Nicholas Calvert, Dylan Molinaro.
April 2024 - Melbourne
The Australian junior team didn’t have to wait long for their shot at regaining the Trans Tasman shield, facing off against New Zealand in Melbourne in April at the end of a gruelling week of squash, with the AJO and OJC being held immediately prior.
Australia’s young brigade again led the charge, with the U15 and U17 teams winning all eight of their matches on Day 1 to set up a dominant day to lead 10-6. Day 2 was more of the same for the Australian team, winning six of the eight U15 and U17 matches to lead the march towards victory. Another 10-6 victory for the day saw Australia reclaim the Trans Tasman shield in style, 20 wins to 12.
The victorious Australian team with the shield in Melbourne after defeating New Zealand 20-12 in the 2024 Trans Tasman Test Match.
The Australian and New Zealand junior teams on the glass court in Tauranga, New Zealand for the 2023 Trans Tasman Test Match.
2023 TRANS TASMAN TEAM 2024 TRANS TASMAN TEAM
Under 15 Girls
Tina Ma (VIC)
Lilly Wilson (QLD)
Under 17 Girls
Joanne Joseph (VIC)
Sarbani Maitra (QLD)
Under 19 Girls
Amelie Guziak (VIC)
Emmy Lamb (NSW)
Madison Lyon (QLD)
Courtney Scholtz (VIC)
Under 15 Boys
Henry Kross (NSW)
Marcus Wang (NSW)
Under 17 Boys
Darcy Hayes (VIC)
Jackson Wylie (NSW)
Under 19 Boys
Ken Lamb (NSW)
Andre Lynn (VIC)
Thomas Scott (NSW)
William Slade (NSW)
Coaches
Jenny Duncalf
Jemma Wratten
Under 15 Girls
Tina Ma (VIC)
Lilly Wilson (QLD)
Under 17 Girls
Joanne Joseph (VIC)
Sarbani Maitra (QLD)
Under 19 Girls
Emmy Lamb (NSW)
Madison Lyon (QLD)
Courtney Scholtz (VIC)
Hannah Slyth (WA)
Under 15 Boys
Henry Kross (NSW)
Joel Raj (QLD)
Under 17 Boys
Kasper Cheung (NSW)
Marcus Wang (NSW)
Under 19 Boys
Darcy Hayes (VIC)*
Daniel Marsh (WA)
Haider Naqvi (VIC)
William Slade (NSW)
Coaches
Jenny Duncalf
Amelia Pittock
*Darcy Hayes replaced Thomas Scott who withdrew from the team with injury.
2024 World Junior Championships
The 2024 Australian World Junior team travelled to the United States in July for the World Junior Championships, which were held at Houston Squash Club in Texas. Twelve players – six men and six women – competed in the individual event from 12-17 July, before the Junior Men’s and Junior Women’s Teams events were held concurrently for the first time. Four players were selected for each team.
Perth’s Hannah Slyth achieved the highest finishing position amongst the Australian women (51st), while fellow West Australian Daniel Marsh was the highest finisher of the junior men (53rd). Outside of Slyth and Marsh, Queensland’s Sarbani Maitra was the only other player to reach the second round – an impressive feat given she was the youngest member of the team (15) and will be eligible for three more World Junior Championships.
Slyth then led the junior women in the team event as the only returning member of the strong 2023 team. She was joined by Emmy Lamb (NSW), Joanne Joseph (VIC) and Maitra.
Wins over Chinese Taipei and Brazil and losses to Hong Kong and India saw Australia placed in a 9-12 playoff pool. A close fought 2-1 loss to France, followed by a tense 2-1 victory over Scotland – where Lamb staged a huge fightback in the deciding match – meant all four positions were possible on the final day. A 3-0 loss against a tough Japan outfit ultimately saw the Australians finish 11th. While the team didn’t reach the same heights as 2023, all four women will be eligible for selection again in 2025, with Joseph and Maitra having multiple future World Junior Championships ahead of them.
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All four junior men were on debut at a Junior Team Championships. After his strong individual performance, Daniel Marsh played in the number one position and was joined in the team by Thomas Scott (NSW), Haider Naqvi (VIC) and William Slade (NSW).
After a slow start against Korea, crucial wins from Marsh and Slade against the Philippines saw Australia through to the playoff rounds. A strong Pakistan team knocked Australia out of the main draw, though there was still a chance to equal the performance of the 2022 team (12th) in the playoff rounds with a victory against Kuwait. Thomas Scott went on first in the number two position, using his skill and experience to put Australia ahead 1-0 after a gruelling five games, before Marsh secured the win for Australia with a strong 3-1 victory.
Losses to Malaysia and Japan on the final two days meant Australia didn’t improve on their 12th place finish from 2022, though the final result was an excellent outcome for an inexperienced team.
The Australian Junior Men’s and Junior Women’s Teams at the 2024 World Junior Championships. From L to R: Nathan Turnbull (Coach), Haider Naqvi, Thomas Scott, William Slade, Daniel marsh, Hannah Slyth, Emmy Lamb, Joanne Joseph, Sarani Maitra, Cassie Thomas (Coach).
2024 World Junior Championships Team
Junior Women Junior Men
Joanne Joseph (VIC)
Emmy Lamb (NSW)
Sarbani Maitra (QLD)
Hannah Slyth (WA)
Soha Khatri (SA)
Kasper Cheung (NSW)
Daniel Marsh (WA)
Haider Naqvi (VIC)
Thomas Scott (NSW)
William Slade (NSW)
Courtney Scholtz (VIC)
James Slade (NSW)
Jenny Duncalf (Coach)
Nathan Turnbull (Coach)
Cassie Thomas (Coach)
Stewart Boswell (Coach)
2023 Australian Junior Championships
26 September – 1 October 2023
The Australian Junior Championships were held at Daisy Hill Squash Club for Queensland’s turn of hosting the event in 2023. The AJST Platinum event attracted 211 players from across the country and all eight states and territories were represented at the event.
The individuals event saw WA’s Oscar Curtis and Queensland’s Madison Lyon take out their second U19 Australian Junior Championship title before leading their States into the Teams event.
U19 BOYS
Winner – Oscar Curtis (WA)
Runner Up – Andre Lyn (VIC)
Third Place – Kenneth Lamb (NSW)
Winner – Haider Naqvi (VIC)
Runner Up – Jackson Wylie (NSW)
Third Place – Darcy Hayes (VIC)
Winner - Kasper Cheung (NSW)
Runner Up – Marcus Wang (NSW)
Third Place – Henry Kross (NSW)
Winner – Kaveen Kohombange (VIC)
Runner Up – Thomas Wang (NSW)
Third Place – Domenic Christou (WA)
Winner – Kai Dumbleton (QLD)
Runner up – Benjamin Boardman (NSW) Third Place – Grayson Coleman (QLD)
&COMPETITIONS EVENTS
U19 GIRLS
Winner – Madison Lyon (QLD)
Runner Up – Courtney Scholtz (VIC)
Third Place – Hannah Slyth (WA)
Third Place – Emilia Scott (NSW) U15 GIRLS
Winner – Sarbani Maitra (QLD)
Runner Up – Tina Ma (VIC)
Winner – Lijana Sultana (QLD)
Runner Up – Joanne Joseph (VIC)
Third Place – Emmy Lamb (NSW) U17 GIRLS
Third Place – Isabella Wilcox (QLD) U13 GIRLS
Winner – Olivia Van Zon (SA)
Runner Up – Nadia Van Zon (SA)
U11 GIRLS
Winner – Yashica Jiwa Mohan (VIC)
Runner Up – Anette Chow (NSW)
Third Place – Abbey Boswell (QLD)
The Australian Junior Teams Championship is growing following the addition of divisions and making the event accessible for some of our smaller states/territories attracting 10 teams from seven states/territories across the two divisions. Division 1 was won by Victoria in a tight battle over Queensland however, Queensland got their gold medal in Division 2 with ACT close behind.
DIVISION
2024 Australian Doubles Open
10 February 2024
The Australian Doubles Open returned to Carrara Squash Centre on the Gold Coast in a reduced format due to the impending announcements of Commonwealth Games and many high-performance athletes relocating overseas. The one day event saw three titles up for grabs with the Men’s Open, Combined A and Combined B grade all hotly contested.
MEN’S OPEN DOUBLES
Winner – Brendan McDonald/David Turner
Runner Up – Nicholas Calvert/Lachlan Coxsedge
COMBINED A GRADE
Winner – Kenneth Lamb/Shona Coxsedge Runner Up – James Boswell/Joel Raj
COMBINED B GRADE
Winner – Grace Commons/Lily Wilson Runner Up – Oliver Bradley/Tracey Partridge
2024 Australian Open
20-24 March 2024
Sponsored by The City Tattersalls Group, the Australian Open was set for a glass court in Martin Place however, due to severe weather the event was played out indoors at Sydney University. The World Tour Bronze level event brought a strong contingent of international players from as high as 10 in the world rankings. Players putting on spectacle matches across the five days resulting in two new champions. In the Men’s draw, Egypt’s Youssef Soliman and Victor Crouin of France took to court seeing an athletic performance from the two players with Youssef edging it out in 4 games, 8-11, 4-11, 11-4, 6-11 (61m). In the Women’s draw, Egypt’s Salma
&COMPETITIONS EVENTS
Hany took on countrywoman Amina Orfi in an exciting three-setter, with Hany taking the title 11-5, 11-8, 11-9 (46m).
This 2024 Australian Open saw a graded event take place with over 180 participants, utilising five facilities to get all 500 matches played throughout the week.
MEN’S WOMEN’S
Winner – Youssef Soliman (EGY)
Runner Up – Victor Crouin (FRA)
MEN’S PREMIER GRADE
Winner – Rhys Dowling (NT)
Runner Up – Bradley Fullick (NSW)
MEN’S A GRADE
Winner – Shane Kendall (NSW)
Runner Up – Daniel Santamaria (NSW)
MEN’S B GRADE
Winner – Kieran Willathgamuwa (NSW)
Runner Up – Victor Vo (NSW)
MEN’S C GRADE
Winner – Chase Rogers (NSW)
Runner up – Ryan Hay (NSW)
MEN’S D GRADE
Winner – Brendan Day (NSW)
Runner Up – Alex Mietzke (NSW)
MEN’S E GRADE
Winner – Thomas Wilkins (NSW)
Runner Up – Leighton Culver (NSW)
Winner – Salma Hany (EGY)
Runner Up – Amina Orfi (EGY)
WOMEN’S PREMIER GRADE
Winner – Alex Haydon (SA)
Runner Up – Madison Lyon (QLD)
WOMEN’S A GRADE
Winner – Emmy Lamb (NSW)
Runner Up – Aimee McConnell (NSW)
WOMEN’S B GRADE
Winner – Romy Ehrlich (NSW)
Runner up – Fatimah Khan (NSW)
WOMEN’S C GRADE
Winner – Adrienne Toohey (NSW)
Runner Up – Laura Saunders (NSW)
WOMEN’S D GRADE
Winner – Georgina Murphy (NSW)
Runner Up – Snigdha Singdha (NSW)
2024 Australian Junior Open
8-11 April 2024
The 2024 Australian Junior Open was held at the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre, attracting 280 participants, the largest AJO event ever held. The international players came from 16 countries with largest contingents from New Zealand and Malaysia. The four-day AJST platinum event was action-packed featuring over 800 matches to crown 10 champions with three Australians amongst them.
The Sarah Fitz-Gerald trophy was won by New Zealand’s Ella Lash in a tight battle over Australia’s Madison Lyon 3-2 (6-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-7, 11-4). On the men’s side, the David Palmer Trophy was captured by Australia’s own Thomas Scott over Malaysia’s Wong Lee Hong 3-0 (11-6, 11-8, 11-5).
U19 BOYS
Winner – Thomas Scott (AUS)
Runner Up – Wong Lee Hong (MAS)
Third Place – Oliver Dunbar (NZL)
U17 BOYS
Winner – Ibrahim Zeb (PAK)
Runner Up – Brodie Bennet (NZL)
Third Place – Saatindraa T S Mohan Raj (MAS)
U15 BOYS
Winner – Yahya Khan (PAK)
Runner Up – Henry Kross (AUS)
Third Place – Azan Ali Khan (PAK)
U13 BOYS
Winner – Huzaifa Shahid (PAK)
Runner Up – Ong Hung Yu (MAS)
Third Place–Muhammad Fawad Khan (PAK)
U11 BOYS
Winner – Edward Lam (MAS)
Runner Up – Aleister Loo (AUS)
Third Place – Muhammed Harmas Ali Raja (PAK)
U19 GIRLS
Winner – Ella Lash (NZL)
Runner Up – Madison Lyon (QLD)
Third Place – Sophie Hodges (NZL)
U17 GIRLS
Winner – Mehwish Ali (PAK)
Runner Up – Xin Yi Lee (MAS)
Third Place – Aria Bannister (NZL)
U15 GIRLS
Winner – Tina Ma (AUS)
Runner Up – Lilly Wilson (AUS)
Third Place – Brooke Valois (NZL)
U13 GIRLS
Winner – Mahnoor Ali (PAK)
Runner Up – Emily Senior (JPN)
Third Place – Yusra Rashid (NZL)
U11 GIRLS
Winner – Aradhana Singh (IND)
Runner Up – Sashana Istritharan (MAS)
Third Place – Abbey Boswell (AUS)
2024 Oceania Junior Championship
12-14 April 2024
The Oceania Junior Championships were held in Australia for their bi-annual hosting following the Australian Junior Open at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, Melbourne. The event saw 253 entrants from Australia, Oceania and abroad battle it out for the title of Oceania Junior Champion with players from six different nations claiming titles. Four Australians took home gold, including Aleister Loo, Tina Ma, Joel Raj and Madison Lyon.
U19 BOYS
Winner – Oliver Dunbar (NZL)
Runner Up – Arthur Pak Ki Law (HKG)
Third Place – Freddie Jameson (NZL)
U17 BOYS
Winner – Brodie Bennet (NZL)
Runner Up – Saatindraa T S Mohan Raj (MAS)
Third Place – Riley Noonan (NZL)
U15 BOYS
Winner – Joel Roshan Raj (AUS)
Runner Up – Henry Kross (AUS) Third Place – Nevellton Jinggan (MAS)
U13 BOYS
Winner - Yuanxi Liu (CHI)
Runner Up – Thomas Wang (AUS) Third Place– Lee Manhae Lucius (MAS)
U11 BOYS
Winner – Aleister Loo (AUS)
Runner Up – Nathan Lin (AUS) Third Place – Edward Lam (MAS)
U19 GIRLS
Winner – Madison Lyon (AUS)
Runner Up - Ella Lash (NZL)
Third Place – Sophie Hodges (NZL)
U17 GIRLS
Winner – Xin Yi Lee (MAS)
Runner Up – Erin Wylie (NZL)
Third Place – Justine Pausch (NZL)
U15 GIRLS
Winner – Tina Ma (AUS)
Runner Up – Brooke Valois (NZL)
Third Place - Lilly Wilson (AUS)
U13 GIRLS
Winner – Emily Senior (JPN)
Runner Up – Mahnoor Ali (PAK)
Third Place – Sehrish Ali (PAK)
U11 GIRLS
Winner – Aradhana Singh (IND)
Runner Up – Abbey Boswell (AUS)
Third Place – Addison Rouse (NZL)
2024 Australian National Championships
13-16 June 2024
The 2024 Australian National Championships took place at the refurbished Belmont Squash Centre in Perth, WA with both Open and amateur divisions played out across the four days of competition.
Australia’s top-ranked players rose to the challenge at the Australian National Championships in Perth by taking out both the men’s and women’s titles.
In the Women’s event, Jessica Turnbull became second player to win the title for third year running after a four-setter against SA’s Alex Haydon, 3-1 (8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-3).
In the Men’s event, Joseph White broke through for his first National Title with victory over Rhys Dowling 3-2 (11-6, 11-6, 5-11, 6-11, 11-7).
MEN’S CLOSED PSA
Winner – Joseph White (NT)
Runner Up – Rhys Dowling (NT)
MEN’S A GRADE
Winner – Jamie Herring (WA)
Runner Up – Sam Henderson (WA)
MEN’S B GRADE
Winner – Brendan Marsh (WA)
Runner Up – Domi Diaz (WA)
MEN’S C GRADE
Winner – Ashton Clement (WA)
Runner Up – Domenic Christou (WA)
MEN’S D GRADE
Winner – Craig Taggart (WA)
Runner Up – Brandon Kitt (WA)
WOMEN’S CLOSED PSA
Winner – Jessica Turnbull (QLD)
Runner Up – Alex Haydon (SA)
WOMEN’S A GRADE
Winner – Fiona Whooley (WA)
Runner Up – Isla Harris (WA)
WOMEN’S B GRADE
Winner – Katherine Tonkin (WA)
Runner Up – Katy Scott (WA)
WOMEN’S C GRADE
Winner – Jessica Jellis (WA)
Runner Up – Teagan Scott (WA)
STATE& TERRITORY REPORTS
SQUASHACT
It has been another big year of Squash in the Nation’s Capital. The year has been marked by significant developments and successful tournaments, which have contributed to the growth and promotion of Squash in the Territory. Squash ACT and its clubs continued to see increased participation in social competitions and growing numbers in juniors.
Jansher Khan Canberra Open
In August, Squash ACT hosted the 2024 Jansher Khan Canberra Open for the third year in row. The PSA event attracted numerous international players and players from around the country which was a pleasure for all to see on court.
Results:
PSA Men’s
Winner: John Meehan (SCO)
Runner UP: Nicholas Calvert (QLD)
PSA Women’s
Winner: Erin Classen (WA)
Runner-Up: Amelie Guziak (VIC)
Competitions
Inter club Pennant numbers have been maintained over the past 12 months, which had been declining for several years post COVID. Clubs around the territory are thriving with local clubs seeing an increase in membership and increasing number of players back on court competing in social and inhouse competitions.
Uni Sport Nationals
The Squash competition was held as a mixed-teams competition out of the University of Canberra. The event saw consistent numbers with previous years and had new universities enter the event. ACT had representation with a team entry from students studying at the Australian National University.
Champions: University of Sydney
Masters
The 2024 Australian Masters Championships was held in the ACT at Woden Squash Centre and Weston Creek Community Centre. The event saw 352 players descend onto Canberra for two weeks of competition. The courts were buzzing and had an
incredible atmosphere during both the individuals and teams’ events. Squash ACT was honoured to be afforded the opportunity to host such a prestigious event, and we hope to be able to continue to support Masters squash with future events.
Centre Upgrades
Weston Creek Community Centre had a complete overhaul of their four squash courts. They received new glass front walls, tins, sanded floors, painted walls and line markings measured and replace to the correct position.
Challenges
With economic household burden weighing on many, there will be a need to be an incentive to draw new and existing players back into the game. With an increase in urban development in the nation’s capital, Squash centres are currently at an increased risk of being redeveloped. Additionally, the ACT Government is significantly changing their support system for SSOs which will provide significant hurdles and difficulties financially for sporting bodies.
Looking Forward
Squash ACT is excited to run a coaching course and continue to put plans in place to grow the Jansher Khan Canberra Open. We are continuing to complete grant applications to find ways to support the sport to move in a positive direction. We are in the process of reviewing our competition structure and guidelines to align with Squash Australia, the functionality of revSPORT and ensure the sport is benefiting those that play.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank and show appreciation to the Squash ACT board, clubs, volunteers, committees, coaches and officials for all their hard work, time, effort and support of Squash.
We hope to make this next year even better.
Thomas Calvert Development Officer
SQUASHNSW
Squash NSW President’s Report 2023 – 2024 Financial Year
July 2023 saw Squash NSW start the year with a healthy surplus in the accounts from 2022/23 and more affiliated members (associations, clubs centres and professional bodies) than in previous years. These outcomes were achieved through concentrated effort and despite some initial difficulties with the new revSPORT affiliation model.
Due to the work of our peak body, Sport NSW, we received good news from the NSW Government Office of Sport with our grant from them increasing from $55,000 in previous years to $100,000 in 2023/24. We chose to direct this grant towards increased participation across NSW including for women and girls and culturally diverse communities. We did not achieve as much as we would have liked due to receiving it late in the FY and recruitment difficulty but we are now well-established to achieve more in 2024/25.
January 2024 saw our current CEO Tessa Berger join us. Tessa comes from a high performance sporting background (Football NZ) and has strong business, government and not-for-profit experience.
• Further expansion in our membership through affiliation of our associations, clubs, centres, professional bodies and players under the new revSPORT platform
• Improving value for all members
• Establishing participation programs to increase the number of players, coaches and officials across the state
• Continuation of our successful junior program together with development of improvements under a new High Performance Pathway to expand engagement and achieve a truly bestpractice high performance environment where all of our junior athletes can develop to their potential
• Work in the facilities area to support maintenance and upgrade existing facilities and the limited number of new facilities on the horizon.
• Improving professionalism and processes for the board, including the establishment of a Finance Audit and Risk Committee and a Nominations
Committee to meet NSW Office of Sport expectations
• Collaborative work with Squash Australia and the other states and territories which will lead to improvements in efficiency in NSW and across the sport
Looking to 2025 FY, we can expect:
• An increase in value for affiliation to drive more engagement and numbers in the sport
• Expanded participation programs to assist clubs to increase numbers
• The potential for even more support from the NSW Government as overall funding is again increasing. However, this will only be achieved if the level of professionalism and governance in the sport improves to match. This will start with the board but will be expected throughout the sport
• Full implementation of the Performance Pathway for our junior athletes to consolidate and extend current gains
• Improved communications across all platforms, and
• Renewed vigour in pursuit of opportunities for development of more multi-sport indoor facilities including squash.
John Small President
SQUASHNT
Introduction
As the Chairperson of Squash NT, it is my pleasure to present the annual report summarising the notable events and achievements that took place in 2024. This year has been marked by significant developments and successful tournaments, which have contributed to the growth and promotion of squash in the Northern Territory.
Darwin Squash Centre & Squash NT Board Changes
In May this year, Dean Kidd resigned his position as Darwin Squash Centre (DSC) Manager. The board thanks Dean for the time he invested in running the courts and serving the NT Squash community. Stepping down from his role as Squash NT Chair, Darren Barclay took up the role of Interim DSC Manager for a six-month period. The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank Darren Barclay for six years of service on the Squash NT Board (four of those as Chair) and almost six months as Interim Darwin Squash Centre Manager. Darren’s dedication to the sport and the community is next to none. The commitment of time and resources that he has contributed through a difficult time have been tremendous. The Board would also like to thank Sarah Lewis (three years) and Lachlan Cowley (six years) for their passion and service on the Board and welcome Rebecca Moussa and Patrick Maxwell to the board. I, Naomi Ireland, took up the role of Squash NT Chair, after Darren resigned.
NT Open and Junior Championship - May 2024
The highlight of our annual calendar, the NT Open and Junior Championship, held in May 2024, was a resounding success. This event showcased the talent and dedication of our local squash community and drew participants from across the territory.
This year the Bendigo Bank NT Open was a PSA Challenger tournament bringing professional players to the Territory. Home grown Rhys Dowling won the Open, providing some great quality, entertaining squash.
Development and Outreach
In 2024, Squash NT continued its commitment to developing the sport at the grassroots level. The Darwin Squash Centre Junior program numbers continue to rise and new programs, such as Beginners Squash were started. We organised several coaching clinics for our regional centres of Gove and Alice Springs, sessions aimed at introducing squash to new enthusiasts and nurturing young talents in our remote communities.
Conclusion
As we conclude the year 2024, Squash NT is working hard to continue providing squash to our enthusiastic regional community. We owe our success to the dedication and passion of our members, volunteers, staff and most of all the squashies of the NT!
To wrap up 2024, we will need to recruit a new Darwin Squash Centre Manager and look for new board members, however, we are excited for the opportunities fresh faces and ideas can bring.
On behalf of Squash NT, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our achievements in 2024. Together, we will continue to grow and strengthen squash in the Northern Territory.
Sincerely,
Naomi Ireland Chairperson
SQUASHQLD
Squash Queensland has had a busy year working with extremely limited resources for such a large state.
This year Squash Queensland has worked hard to foster relations with all levels of government and has been able to engage successfully with the Queensland Government once more after many years of frustration.
Squash Queensland attended both the Queensland Olympic Committee AGM and the Oceania National Olympic Committee conference. This enabled us to connect directly with Chancellors and Vice Chancellors from the Queensland University Alliance, the Brisbane 2032 Director of Sport, Kieren Perkins from the Australian Sports Commission and the President and Secretary General of the Queensland Olympic Committee.
Squash Queensland is involved in ongoing regional networking events with other sporting bodies, hosted by the Department of Tourism and Sport’s Darling Downs South West and North Coast offices in Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast.
We have also engaged directly with a range of Local Government Councils throughout Queensland regarding their support for squash, particularly around new facilities.
The Queensland Junior Championships were held in Rockhampton in 2024 and will head to Townsville for 2025. Two positive outcomes were Central Region’s re-establishment as an affiliated partner and the reforming of the Central Bulls, who came back into the QJC Teams event this year.
At this year’s QJC there were 103 competitors, the largest state or territory junior championships, showing the strength of the sport across the state.
This year Squash Queensland won a QUT x QSport Hackathon project fund to develop a sports technology solution, of which the prototype is being presented to the market for development which will support community activation across Queensland
and bring in alternative revenue.
Of course, there have been setbacks as well, mainly in the facilities space. The private ownership model that developed as the sport boomed last century continues to cause problems as courts are demolished or repurposed. The major losses this year are the nine-court centre in Toowoomba and the six courts at Brassall in Ipswich. Squash Queensland realises the need to change our delivery model and have courts built at multi-sports complexes. Squash Queensland has accordingly met with local governments from across the state, many of which are favourably disposed to this model. However, there is much work to be done in this area.
The year ahead promises to be an exciting one for the sport with a number of projects in store that will boost the sport’s profile and will increase participation.
Andrew Dent President
SQUASHSA
2023-24 brought considerable staffing changes for Squash SA with Deb van Zon replacing longstanding Competitions Coordinator Tanya Virgens and James Rogers starting as General Manager after working his way up the association, starting as a contracted coach in 2001.
Continuing on the path of our 21-23 Strategic Plan for the whole organisation, whilst implementing a more direct and manageable Business Plan for squash and racquetball kept our focus on grassroots participation, school programs, integrity education and quality competitions for all.
New national policies and platforms for membership and registration saw a lot of operational time being absorbed, however in effect, it has helped forge closer relationships with our clubs, players and clearly demonstrated the need for a “Club Support Officer” role to be added to the staffing structure. Squash SA remains committed to Squash Australia’s direction and use of the national membership platform and competition software.
Squash SA’s licenced venue “The Southern” which was purchased in 1996 to fund squash and racquetball development in SA was a high priority over the past months as it was in dire need of refurbishment and a change of management structure. The Board extensively investigated all avenues of management structures before finally settling on hiring an experienced hospitality manager to steer us into the future and hopefully provide a significant increase in resources to fund operations specifically related to our sports.
Also in the past year, Squash SA has:
• Once again run our most successful HighSchool events
• Met budget for the first time since COVID
• Increased attendance at our annual awards dinner by 50%
• In conjunction with clubs, facilitated and/or funded six senior and nine junior tournaments
• Increased social media metrics exponentially through reach and engagement
• Expanded on diversity programs
• Implemented successful player rules and safety sessions to improve the enjoyment and safety of pennant
The Board and staff of Squash SA look forward to the next 12 months of promoting and developing the sports of squash and racquetball and thank our member clubs and stakeholders for their commitment and support.
Matt Boyce Chair
SQUASHTAS
2024 has been a steady year for Squash Tasmania.
Our junior numbers are improving, with regular Squash to Schools presentations at Eastside, Kingborough, Devonport and Penguin.
On court Level 1 Squash Coaching Accreditation has been held at Kingborough and Devonport with some 10 participants successfully completing their Accreditation.
Deloraine Council has finally commenced work on their new squash centre and work is expected to be completed late 2024, with their first Open Tournament scheduled to be held in June 2025.
Highly-regarded squash Coach Vicki Cardwell conducted coaching sessions in the NW and Southern Regions, attended by many juniors and seniors.
The State ran three PSA well-attended events, two in the South and one in the North, with our visiting overseas players showcasing their skills. These events are always well attended and are a stepping stone for our State Players to gain a threshold on the world squash stage.
Devonport Squash Club continues to maintain an excellent relationship with it’s local Council, and has successfully gained a $24,000 sponsorship over three years, 2023, 2024 and 2025 to assist with the continuation of the highly-attended PSA tournaments.
Tasmania Masters tournaments have spread their wings to include two new centres. These events have proven popular, and now will feature on our 2025 calendar of events.
With 2025 looming, we anticipate another exciting year of squash, and it is our goal to continue to grow the senior and junior intake.
Finally my thanks go out to my fellow Committee Colleagues, who have given me guidance, and offered valuable advice during my time as the 2024 Squash Tasmania President, making my role a lot easier.
Leon Barnett President
SQUASH& RACQUETBALLVIC
Over the past year, one of the most notable changes has been the fresh new look of our office. Our General Manager, Dennis Makaling, completed his first full year at S&RV, during which time we experienced several staffing changes. Prayansh Desai transitioned to Athletics Victoria, Aditya Rajpal returned to India, and Jason Turner’s role was adjusted to fewer hours. Looking ahead, Dennis plans to appoint a Competition Manager, who will soon oversee many aspects of events, competitions and social media.
Our Board has also seen some changes. Tim Batty stepped down due to work and time commitments, while we welcomed two new members: Chris Rucinski from Monash University and Michelle Morris from MI Global Partners, rounding out our Board’s composition.
I would like to acknowledge the immense contributions made over the last 12 months by Dennis Makaling, who continues to lead with dedication despite a reduced staff; Shane Skidmore, who provides invaluable support for our racquetball events; Donna Millington, who consistently offers accounting expertise; and each Board member for their leadership and guidance.
This year also brought several notable achievements, including the formation of the Victorian Junior Panel/ Committee, which has provided valuable insight and support to the General Manager.
I would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to Peter Wright for his remarkable 39 years of service as President of the Australian Masters Squash Association, as he steps into retirement.
Lastly, we remember those we lost this year: Simon Weatherill, former Chief Executive of the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and former Squash Australia Board Member, as well as Life Members Chris Fuhrmeister and Brian Galt-Smith. Their presence will be deeply missed by the entire squash and racquetball community.
Sarah Fitz-Gerald President
2024 was another exciting and eventful year for Squash and Racquetball Victoria, with a wide array of tournaments showcasing the strength and enthusiasm of our community. In total, we hosted 10 AJST events (including one Gold, four Silver and five Bronze), three PSA tournaments, eight Senior Graded events, five Masters tournaments and six Racquetball competitions.
A special highlight was the Silver Junior tournament at Horsham Squash Club, marking the first junior event held there in many years. This was followed by the ‘Battle of the Border,’ a friendly competition between South Australia and Victorian juniors, also hosted in Horsham.
Monash University held its first Senior Graded tournament, drawing nearly 90 competitors—a fantastic debut for the venue. Additionally, the prestigious Hopman Cup celebrated its 50th anniversary, with a successful tournament held at MSAC, bringing together regional clubs for this timehonored event.
From a coach education perspective, we successfully accredited 15 new Level 1 coaches through courses held at both MSAC and Portland. On the referee education front, our referee committee conducted a ‘Parent and Player Referee Education’ session, as well as a Level 1 Squash Referee Program, which attracted five participants.
We currently have 53 affiliated clubs and associations, with 1,600 members registered in RevSport. The transition to RevSport by clubs and members has shown notable improvement compared to the previous financial year, as expected.
As we head towards the end of 2024, we aim to improve our participation numbers through membership registrations and introducing more social programs through our clubs and schools in 2025.
Dennis Makaling General Manager
SQUASHWA
Squash WA has enjoyed an action-packed 2024. It was filled with success, challenges, improvements and losses, but overall, Squash was a winner in 2024.
We continue to see new faces in centres, competitions and junior programs – a testament to all the hard work put in by staff, Board and our small but mighty army of volunteers.
The Olympics announcement came at the perfect time for us in WA, as this was the beginning of many firsts in a long time for us.
WA Open International and Australian National Championships
Western Australia became the Mecca of squash in Australia in June with three major events running back-to-back. On the first weekend of June the Golden Open took place in Kalgoorlie and attracted 135 players along with a full cast of Professional Squash Association (PSA) players.
The following weekend saw the biggest WA Open tournament in 30 years take place with just over a cool 200 players, including the PSA players and just when we were about to take a breath, the Australian National Championships were upon us which saw the top male and female players in Australia vying for glory and national team selection.
State Masters Championships
Squash WA ran our first State Masters Championships in many years. The event managed to attract 93 entries. More than half of the players were in the younger brackets between 35 and 50 years of age. Presentations were followed by delicious food, a few drinks and loads of laughter and camaraderie; something the squash community in WA is renowned for.
State Junior Championships
The individual’s event took place at the end of June at the State Centre in Belmont, entries were at a 10 year high of 73, with 139 matches played.
State Centre Upgrades
Significant upgrades continue at the State Squash Centre, Belmont. We will soon be installing an elevator, level 1 balcony, and more.
Other successes this year included building on our junior pathway by introducing Zone Squads. Our junior pathway is gaining momentum, and the selection of both Division 1 and Division 2 State Teams is testament to our increasing junior cohort.
As with many of the States, we faced a few challenges.
•Two of our Metro centres were closed this year after being sold to investors.
•The RevSport roll out caused a lot of frustration and confusion within the squash community, but WA continued to lead the roll out and do the best we can under the circumstances, a tribute to the resilience of WA members.
•Engagement with schools has been steady, which is challenging when many of our other indicators are trending up.
•Pennants (Metro) continues to be challenging due to the heavy resource load and lessening of player commitments. We have maintained our pennant numbers and will continue to drive this side of our participation.
Overall, 2024 was an amazingly successful year for Squash in Western Australia. The growth and buzz could not have happened with the support of Sponsors, Department of Local Government, Sport and Culture Industries (DLGSCI), City of Stirling, Healthway, Squash Australia and numerous local sponsors throughout the year. Whilst I may be General Manager, these successes could not have happened without my amazing colleagues in Serena Richardson, Roxy Edery (in the office) and a handson Board. Finally, the biggest thank you goes to our volunteers… the most amazing people who choose to be part of the solution to growing squash in WA, instead being part of the problem. THANK YOU!
Leigh-Anne Kaye General Manager
SPONSORS
