DECEMBER 2024
2025 NZ SQUASH OPEN ON TRACK TO SELLOUT MYSQUASH A NEW ERA KAYE JACKSON A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO SQUASH
New zealand’s most trusted home builder
Independent research by leading consumer magazine Reader’s Digest found G.J. Gardner Homes to be New Zealand’s Most Trusted Home Builder once again.
Talk to us today and see why more New Zealanders trust G.J. Gardner to build their homes year after year.
0800 42 45 46 / gjgardner.co.nz
5. The Notice Board
6. The Boast Survey - Win a pair of New Balance shoes
7. Junior Squash
8. Tribute to Kaye Jackson
10. NZ Squash Open - On track to sellout
11. PSA World Tour / Squash Trivia
12. SNZ High Performance Programme
14. Nurturing Future Coaches
15. Coach Mentoring
18. A New Era: MySquash Competitions launching soon
19. ‘Have-A-Go’ Squash Day in Otago
20. Referee in the Hot Seat / Hey Ref!
22. Volunteer of the month
23. Blast from the past
24. SquashLevels - Most improved
25. Club Uplift - Two new guides are out
Stay updated with our other channels
Chief Executive Update
Tēnā koutou
As we approach the end of the year, we find ourselves in the whirlwind of wrapping up projects while diving into the festive season with its many functions and social gatherings. It’s a busy yet exciting time! Adding to the excitement is our countdown to the launch of MySquash on 29th January. With the date fast approaching, I want to reassure everyone that we are fully committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition from iSquash to MySquash Competitions. A huge thank you goes out to all the club change leaders who are playing a critical role in making this happen for our members—you’re our heroes behind this transformation!
Meanwhile, many of us are still on the squash court, proving that this sport is more than just a game; it’s a passion. I often wonder why
A COLLECTION OF POEMS BY ROD HAYES
Rod Hayes, a former NZ Rep at Junior, Senior and Masters level, and coach of several NZ Champions is pleased to share with the squash community this recently published collection of poems.
Rod invites readers to experience the highs and lows of squash through a lens of humour and heartfelt reflection.
In ‘Sport But Not As You Poet’ you’ll find a unique blend of poignant, heartwarming and lighthearted verses that capture the essence of sport, coaching, and the bonds formed on and off the court. The book is a celebration of the camaraderie, challenges, and triumphs that define the game and the community who play it. It will resonate with anyone who has ever picked up a racket.
Titles such as “The Fight” and “What Lights Your Fire?” explore different sides of the game, while “Special” and “The Coach Calls Time” could apply to any sport. Surprisingly perhaps, “Mindless Violence”, and “Nasty Nick” apply only to squash, while “Triple Skunk” will be familiar to some older players.
Perfect for Christmas stockings or as a thoughtful gift for those who cherish sport and its stories, this collection will entertain and inspire. Don’t miss out—grab your copy today and share the joy of squash with your loved ones in a series of short and easy reads.
Cost: $30.00 (+ $7 postage fee for deliveries outside the greater Christchurch area)
To order a copy, email hayesport@xtra.co.nz
Include your name and indicate delivery method.
I continue entering tournaments and club events at this busy time of year, but I know the answer: it’s the camaraderie, the thrill of competition, the endorphin rush, and the sheer love of the game that keeps me playing.
Looking ahead, it seems December and January are set to bring dry and warm weather! On behalf of the national office, I want to wish everyone a joyous festive season, a wonderful summer, and a chance to recharge. Here’s to ending the year on a high and stepping into 2025 with energy and optimism!
Ngā mihi Martin Dowson
The notice board
What’s happening in our community
DON GREEN CUP –TUESDAY, 26TH NOVEMBER
Report supplied by Mark Gribben
The annual match between the Fernhill and Otago Squash Clubs was held on 26th November. Fernhill hosted the event on the 90th anniversary of the court being built at the historic Dunedin Club. Gerard DeCourcy deserves all the credit for resurrecting the rivalry after it lapsed for a period around the turn of the century.
Otago won the latest match after Fernhill enjoyed 3 years of holding the trophy but the occasion is more important than the result.
The trophy is named after Don Green who was an esteemed member of both clubs and won a national title in 1956. DeCourcy has become a latter day Green. Both served as Presidents of the Otago club and were made life members. In 1976 Don Green was also awarded SNZ Life Membership. They both also served as Presidents of New Zealand’s national body and served World Squash, DeCourcy as a vice president and Green as a delegate. These days, Gerard is in charge of disputes for the international body and devotes his local time to boosting the squash playing fraternity at the Dunedin Club - as well as still spearheading their team every year.
EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT:
Kathryn McKay Appointed Manager for Trans-Tasman Masters Team
Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kathryn McKay as the Manager for the Trans-Tasman Masters Team, set to compete against Australia in Perth in September 2025. With her extensive experience both as a player and a manager, Kathryn is uniquely qualified to lead our team through this test series.
Kathryn’s deep knowledge of the game, combined with her excellent rapport with players, will be a significant asset to the team, ensuring a positive experience both on and off the court. Her leadership and dedication to the sport make her an ideal choice for this role, and we have no doubt that she will bring a wealth of expertise and passion to the team.
Go the Kiwis!
FEATURED IN THE POST
Mackenzie Tait and Ben Jones are making a hit on the national and international squash courts.
The Masterton Squash Club juniors this year reached the giddy heights of an A Grade ranking, and along with fellow club member Liberty Jones represented New Zealand Secondary Schools in the annual TransTasman series with Australia.
Read the full article HERE
CONGRATULATIONS LWAMBA
A massive congratulations to NZ#2 and WR#89 @ lwambachileshe_squash who recently took down the world number 48 in three games to make his first overseas 15K final.
Lwamba’s last two tournaments of the year are:
• Worker bee Manchester Northern open (27th November - 1st December)
• Madeira international tournament (4th-8th December)
Keep up the Mahi
RALLY WALLS INTRODUCED TO SPECIALIST SCHOOL
The Rotorua Specialist School recently purchased one of our Rally Walls, providing their students with special needs an opportunity to learn new racket skills – and have a lot of fun while doing it!
HELP US MAKE THE BOAST EVEN BETTER !
Thank you for being a reader of The Boast! We’d love your feedback to ensure our magazine stays engaging, useful, and relevant. This survey will only take 2–4 minutes.
We will give out a pair of New Balance shoes to a lucky winner.
junior squash
Welcome to our new section on Junior Squash, which will showcase great mahi being done both locally and internationally to inspire the next generation of squash stars.
This month we share the story of the Northern Squash Club in the UK, and how they have grown their junior membership numbers at their four-court club to over 200 players!
BREAKING THE MOLD:
How a Northern squash club in England built a thriving junior program
In the landscape of English squash clubs, it’s rare to find a member-owned establishment with a robust junior program. Yet, Northern Squash Club in Newcastle defies this norm. With a history dating back to the 1890s as a rugby club and the addition of four squash courts in 1956, the club has evolved into a vibrant community hub. Today, it boasts around 450 members, with an impressive junior membership exceeding 200.
CLICK HERE to read the full story
2025 WORLD SQUASH JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS TO BE HELD IN EGYPT
We’re excited to share that the 2025 World Squash Junior Championships will be held in Egypt at the renowned Black Ball Sporting Club in New Cairo, from July 21 to August 1, 2025. The event will feature both junior men’s and women’s individual and team competitions.
As we all know, Egypt is a powerhouse in world squash, with a rich history of producing top-level players and hosting world-class events. For our junior development players, the opportunity to compete in such an iconic squash hub will be an unforgettable experience. We would like to extend our thanks to the Egyptian Squash Federation, Black Ball Sporting Club, and the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports for their support in making this event possible. We are sure it will be an incredible experience for all players, coaches, and officials.
We’ll share more details as the event draws closer and look forward to an exciting and memorable World Junior Championship in New Cairo!
Above: Nick Mattew coaching workshop at the Northern Squash Club
The 2024 NZ Junior team at World Juniors in Houston, USA
Right: Leading the charge is Richard Vitty, an England Squash Level 4 Qualified Coach with 40 years of coaching experience
Kaye Jackson –A lifetime of Service to Squash
SQUASH LOSES A CHERISHED MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY
by Aileen Buscke
It is with great sadness that we were advised of Kaye Jackson’s passing last week, Kaye will be remembered as one of squash’s icons who gave a lifetime of service to the game.
Few participants in squash can boast the multiple accomplishments as she could, in almost every area of the game. A successful player, a coach, a referee, an administrator, a selector, a manager, and a statistician. She served on countless committees, and has a long list of masters’ titles, national representation and awards to her credit.
Kaye first became involved in squash when she arrived in NZ 55 years ago.
As a competitor she reached an A grade level and was always a formidable opponent. She continued to play competitively in both squash and tennis (including coaching) right up to 7 weeks before she died.
Her outstanding record includes many Masters Age Group titles:
16 NZ titles, 2 Australian and 2 World Masters. She was in the Auckland Masters team on several occasions. As a tennis player Kaye has a NZ Masters Doubles and Mixed Doubles titles to her credit.
She joined Squash Auckland as statistician and development officer in the 1990s. At the same time, she was Auckland regional coach for more than a decade. Not one to be idle, multiskilled Kaye was also a national referee for several years and for a time she was an international WSF (World Squash Federation) referee!
Her versatility was recognised in the number of awards she received throughout her sporting life.
1991
Derek Cook Trophy for contribution to Refereeing
1997
Sport Auckland Achievement Award, contribution to squash
2007
Sport Auckland, Volunteers, heart of sport award.
2013
Personality of the Year – Squash Auckland.
2015
Squash NZ Rob Roche Award for Meritorious Service to Masters Squash.
2015
Awarded a Life Membership of Squash Auckland
2017
Master of the Year – Squash Auckland
Kaye is also one of the few Kiwi players to be recognised on the World Squash Roll of Honour.
As a coach and administrator Kaye led a busy and varied life. Her first job in NZ was in 1985 in the office at Royal Oak (RO) and she later became their first professional coach. She was their squash club champion 7 times between 1980 and 1990. After a few years at the club Kaye left for a stint up north as Northern Development officer which included travelling around the North Island with the mini court.
Her next move was returning to Auckland where she managed and owned the St Lukes Squash Centre with former NZ squash representative Peter Dibley. At the time the centre was very popular and in 1996 it was named the Auckland Club of the Year.
In the 1998/99 season she returned to the Royal Oak Club (RO) again as coach and administrator which included the organising of several successful tournaments each year. She played Masters squash interclub every season and was equally as skilled on the tennis court. She was for some years a valued member of RO Ferrier Cup team, the top tennis doubles competition in Auckland. When she moved north to Snells Beach Kaye continued her association with RO and her legacy there remained very strong. They published a wonderful tribute to Kaye on their Facebook page describing her as the cornerstone of their club for many years. She was known for her incredible talent on court, her sharp sense of humour and her unwavering dedication. They added that she had left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
She joined the Warkworth Squash and Tennis Club in 2011 and was there for the rest of her life. President from 2014 through to 2020 and she also held multiple positions at the same time, coaching, club captain, bar manager and organised countless tournaments particularly juniors. When Warkworth added their third glass back court, a major undertaking for a small club. Kaye was on the working committee as well as club captain. The court was opened in 2013 and that year the club was named the Auckland Club of the Year.
Warkworth also sent a glowing tribute of Kaye to their members. It read ‘Kaye was not only a valued member of our club but a dear friend to many. Her warmth, her dedication and unwavering enthusiasm for our shared passion will be greatly missed. Every one of us has a story, a moment or a lesson learned from her that makes us grateful for the times we’ve shared.’
John Fletcher, SNZ National Development Manager worked with Kaye for many years. He said, ‘Kaye showed unlimited dedication to the game of squash across every single aspect of the sport, with countless
hours spent on and off the court encouraging and supporting the participation of players at all levels. Nothing could stop her from ensuring the task at hand was completed as players expected, and emails from her in the early hours of the morning as she worked on interclub draws after getting home late from her own matches not being uncommon! Her knowledge of squash was immense, and I feel privileged to have been one of the many who were taught and inspired by Kaye.’
Martin Dowson, SNZ Chief Executive supports the many accolades. He couldn’t add any more other than reinforcing all the points made. She was a pleasure to work with and only ever wanted the best for the sport.
Squash Auckland, who Kaye was closely associated with for much of her working life said her services were deserving of high praise. She was a cherished member of the squash community and her warmth, dedication and unwavering enthusiasm for all aspects of the game will be deeply missed.
My personal tribute to Kaye as a friend and work colleague also fully endorses all that has been penned. Kaye’s life revolved around her sport and family. I will particularly miss her amazing knowledge and work ethic. She was hard working and very much ‘old school.’ She did as much voluntary work, if not more than paid work such was her passion for the game.
In her position as Auckland Interclub and Teams’ Controller, Kaye never broke the rules, and I mean never!! During teams’ events or interclub many clubs would request ‘exceptions to the rules’ hoping for change. But they never got it past Kaye. She always said that was what rules are for. It didn’t matter whether you were a Cousin Shield or Mitchell Cup player or an F Grader, you still got the same treatment.
Kaye will be fondly remembered by many in squash and tennis for her dedication and massive contribution to the sports. She was very efficient, focussed, practical, downto-earth, totally reliable and generous. There were no airs and graces about Kaye. Her depth of knowledge and experience will be sadly missed. So willing to help right to the end with no expectations in return.
She was a loving and proud mother and grandmother; her family’s loss is enormous, and thoughts are with them all.
If as author Robert Bryrne said: The purpose of life is a life of purpose then Kaye Jackson found and fulfilled hers. We are the winners.
Image credit: localmatters.co.nz
2017 – a successful season of squash for Kaye winning three gold medals in the masters 70-plus division.
NZ Squash Open On Track To Sellout
The New Zealand Squash Open is looking likely to sellout, with tickets in hot demand for the nation’s premier squash competition.
The Open is being held at Christchurch’s iconic Isaac Theatre Royal from March 4th to 9th 2025 and will feature a men’s and women’s draw consisting of 48 of the world’s best squash athletes.
Event Director Simon Carter says they’ve seen strong ticket sales and are expecting to sell out many of the sessions.
“We’re really pleased with how sales are tracking. We’re already 80% sold out for finals days so for anyone thinking about buying tickets, now’s the time,” said Carter.
“It’s going to be amazing to have the world’s best squash athletes on court in the beautiful Isaac Theatre Royal. We know New Zealanders love their sport and we expect international fans to attend as well, so we’re looking forward to fantastic crowds and great competition.”
Carter is urging squash fans from around the country to consider travelling to Christchurch for the event.
“We’ve had really strong ticket sales across the South Island and we’d love to see fans from the North Island getting involved as well.
“This is your chance to support squash in New Zealand. It’s going to be a fantastic tournament and we’re encouraging North Island clubs and teams to grab their tickets and come and enjoy the country’s biggest squash event.”
As well as general admission tickets a host of corporate tickets and event partnership opportunities are available. Tickets are available via Ticketek with further information on corporate packages available on the event website www.nzsquashopen.co.nz
The tournament will be run as part of The New Zealand Festival of Squash, which will see the New Zealand Junior Open held at the Christchurch Club in conjunction with the elite event.
The tournament is a joint venture with the Professional Squash Association. Squash New Zealand would like to acknowledge support from Sport New Zealand, Christchurch NZ, Barfoot and Thompson and Lucino.
C LICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS
COLL DEFEATED BY ELIAS IN SINGAPORE SQUASH SEMI FINAL
World Champion Diego Elias has staged a remarkable comeback from two games and 1-5 down in the third to beat New Zealand’s Paul Coll and reach his third Singapore Open final in a row.
PSA Squash tour squash trivia
The Peruvian looked on the verge of a defeat in straight games but came alive in the third game to kickstart a victory which will see him take on World #1 Ali Farag in a repeat of last year’s final.
Elias and Coll were meeting for the 16th time on the PSA Squash Tour, with Coll leading their head-to-head record by a narrow 8-7 margin.
It was the Kiwi who dictated the tempo of the early exchanges as Elias looked off the pace and well below the level that saw him win the Qatar Classic last month.
That all changed in the third game though. Elias slowed the pace right down and that seemed to knock Coll out of his rhythm, with that 2-0 lead first being halved and then being eradicated completely as he chipped away at the second seed.
Try as he might, Coll wasn’t able to get back in front and his frustration was evident towards the back end of the fifth game when he was given a conduct warning for striking the side wall in anger.
Elias kept his composure to see out the win and will now compete in his 38th PSA final. Elias will also look to avenge his defeats to Farag in last month’s U.S. Open final and the 2023 Singapore Open title decider. A win for the 28-year-old will see him win his 20th PSA title.
“I was thinking about what my dad was going to say on the phone afterwards,” said Elias.
“He would say that I didn’t try and that I didn’t push myself. Even if I lost I wanted to come back and give it 100 per cent. Paul played amazing in the first two games, we haven’t played since the start of the year, and he played with a lot of pace.
“I wasn’t used to it and it took me a while to adapt. I had a game plan, but to be honest in the first two games I was a bit loose and he was volleying everything. He was hitting a lot of cross courts with a lot of pace and then taking me short. I couldn’t find myself but then after the second game I started playing tighter to the wall.
[3] Diego Elias (Per) 3-2 [2] Paul Coll (Nzl) 5-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-4, 11-3 (72m)
Q1: When is the new competitions platform being introduced?
Q2: Which country is the current 2024 World Squash Champion for both men’s and women’s singles?
Q3. Who is the youngest player ever to win a PSA Gold event?
Q4. Who won the recent G.J. Gardner Homes NZ Masters men’s 35+ Title?
Q5: What year was the game of squash first played?
Q6: Which country has won the most Women’s World Squash Championship titles?
Q7: What does the abbreviation PSA stand for in squash?
Q8: Which NZ female squash player won the prestigious British Open in 2003?
Answers
A8: Carol Owens
A7: Professional Squash Association
A6: Egypt
A5: In the early 19th Century, around 1830 in England.
A4: Evan Williams
A3: Amina Orfi (17 years)
A2: Egypt
A1: 29th January 2025
End to end player pathway
SHIFTING GEARS: A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO HIGH PERFORMANCE SQUASH IN 2025
As we move into the 2025 season, the high-performance squash programme is making a shift in focus. Instead of winding down as the summer months approach, we’re aiming to ramp up. The summer is seen as a key time to improve fitness and work on technical changes that will support long-term success. Players are encouraged to start planning for 2025 now, so they can peak at the right times and set themselves up for optimal performance in the future.
The goal is to take a more mindful and intentional approach to training and competition. By focusing on long-term development, players can improve their performance and be ready for key moments when it matters most. Squash New Zealand’s high performance team is dedicated to helping players create more strategic plans for their growth, offering guidance and resources to support this approach.
to improve steadily and sustainably. The aim is to help more players adopt this approach, which could increase the overall talent pool and lead to more success in the long run.
One challenge players often face is deciding which tournaments to enter, as the national schedule can feel overwhelming. With so many events to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones will be most beneficial for development. Success in squash is not just about playing as many tournaments as possible - it’s about finding the right balance between competition and time for development. Without periods away from tournaments to focus on specific aspects of the game, players risk slowing their progress.
While these ideas might seem ambitious, they are important for encouraging players to think beyond immediate results and take a more thoughtful approach to their growth. By being more intentional with their training and tournament choices, players are more likely
To help with this, Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa has released 2025 planning resources. These documents provide a clear picture of what it takes to be a top squash player, outlining areas for improvement and growth. Players are encouraged to assess their strengths and weaknesses and look for ways to close the gaps in their game.
We’ve also finalised the camp calendar for the upcoming season, giving players and coaches the opportunity to plan ahead. We recommend that players use this information to create their own personalised plans for the year. By identifying their peak event for 2025, players can choose 4-5 build-up tournaments and allocate time for specific development areas. This will help players make informed decisions about which tournaments to enter and how to balance their training with match play for better performance.
Our commitment to player development extends beyond the national development squad. We aim to provide resources to a wider group of players, including those outside the highperformance network, encouraging them to push their standards and work towards joining regional and national squads.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited to begin delivering a new strategy that will strengthen the depth and talent of New Zealand’s squash community. Our goal is to provide top-level support to our high-potential players while also creating opportunities for broader player development. We’re looking forward to seeing how this approach can help build a brighter future for squash in New Zealand.
7 -
9 MARCH / CHRISTCHURCH SQUASH CLUB / CHRISTCHURCH
Special NZ Open pricing for NZJO participants available until 30th November
QF $40, usually $55
SF $45, usually $60
GF $45, usually $65
Get in quick as each session only has 100 tickets available
*limited 2 tickets per player
*there is a $0.56 processing fee per ticket
Enter NZJO in iSquash, entries close 21st February. Fee $40.
Nurturing Future Coaches
THE 2024 WAIKATO YOUTH COACH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
In 2024, the Waikato region saw the launch of an innovative initiative aimed at addressing a pressing issue in junior squash: the shortage of coaches. Supported by Squash New Zealand and Sport New Zealand, the Youth Coach Development Programme set out to engage juniors in coaching roles, thereby bolstering support for club junior programmes, school holiday activities, and other development opportunities.
Tackling the Coaching Shortage
For years, clubs in the Waikato region struggled with a significant challenge: a lack of coaches to support various junior squash activities. This shortage not only hindered the growth and development of junior players but also limited their opportunities to engage in the sport. The Youth Coach Development Programme was introduced to tackle this issue head-on.
A Year of Growth and Engagement
Emma Millar - Squash Development Officer – Identified ten enthusiastic juniors from eight different clubs who stepped up to participate in the initial workshops. Throughout the year, these Youth Coaches immersed themselves in a variety of development opportunities, with their levels of commitment varying. They supported lead coaches in several key events, including school holiday coaching programmes, ‘Have a Go’ sessions, and the 13 and Under Festival of Squash. Some Youth Coaches took on significant responsibilities, such as running their club junior programmes. One standout Youth Coach even initiated a new junior club programme at her club, which previously lacked such a programme.
Building Skills and Confidence
The programme facilitated substantial growth in the Youth Coaches’ confidence and coaching skills. They participated in practical workshops, attended the Upper
North Island Coaching Conference, and engaged in 1-1 coach observations and mentoring. Online catchups and discussions further enriched their learning experience. Additionally, they obtained Squash New Zealand Foundation and Development coaching qualifications through a combination of online modules and practical workshops.
Making an Impact
The involvement of these juniors in coaching roles had a significant impact. Without their contribution, many juniors would not have had the opportunity to try squash or attend coaching sessions. The programme helped retain these keen juniors in the sport, providing them with opportunities that might otherwise be available in other sports.
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright for the Youth Coach Development Programme in Waikato. Plans are in place to continue offering the programme and to support those who participated in its first year, helping them progress further in their coaching journeys. With continued support from community, the programme aims to nurture the next generation of coaches, ensuring the growth and development of junior squash in the region.
COACH MENTORING
THE VALUE OF COACH MENTORING
In collaboration with NZCT, we’ve championed mentoring initiatives across regions, fostering growth among coaches and players alike.
This article explores the journey of Manu Yam, Coach & Player Development Leader at Squash Auckland, alongside a group of young coaches who’ve benefitted from mentorship this season. Their stories highlight how mentoring can transform coaching journeys, offering invaluable lessons for anyone looking to elevate their skills and make a lasting impact.
WHY MENTORSHIP MATTERS: INSIGHTS FROM MANU YAM
What Inspired Your Mentorship Journey?
“I got into coach mentoring when my squash coaching business expanded, running programmes across several clubs and levels of players. To meet the demand, I built a team of coaches, and mentoring became a natural progression. I’ve grown to love mentoring because I see coaches not only improve their skills but also grow as individuals. I have high standards for my programmes, and mentoring ensures that all sessions maintain the same level of enthusiasm, foundational knowledge, and quality.”
Supporting Growth Amid Challenges
“I support my mentees by giving them opportunities to coach, earn, and build their confidence. They gain valuable experience running different programmes and develop essential coaching skills. However, my biggest challenge is time—I wish I had more to dedicate to their growth beyond the programmes. Another challenge is ensuring coaches have the commitment and drive to take ownership of their sessions.”
Celebrating Successes
“The most noticeable improvement is their confidence. Many of them can now independently run programmes for players of all ages and levels. They’ve grasped key coaching principles, such as effective communication, providing feedback, offering encouragement, and ensuring safety.”
Looking Ahead: Suggestions for Improvement
“Mentorship is creating a ripple effect, boosting player participation and programme quality across clubs. Knowing I have confident, capable coaches running sessions gives me peace of mind. However, to expand this impact, we need more mentors to guide inexperienced coaches. This will enable more quality sessions across districts, growing awareness and participation in squash.”
Manu Yam and Riley McCracken
Building Confidence: LESSONS FROM YOUNG COACHES
The reflections of young coaches show how mentorship has helped them grow in confidence and capability while transforming their coaching practices.
Sam O’Brien
Why Did You Seek a Mentor?
“I needed a mentor because getting students to listen was a constant struggle. Sometimes, it felt like I was talking to a wall! I knew I needed help to make my sessions more effective.”
How Has This Experience Improved Your Coaching?
“Having a mentor has been a game-changer. Their advice has helped me improve my clarity and engage students better.”
Overall Experience
“The mentorship has been fantastic. I’ve gained so many practical skills that have made me a better coach.”
Advice to Other Coaches
“Ask for advice and don’t hold back. The more you learn, the better you get. Future mentorship programmes would benefit from more training opportunities to enhance skills further.”
Eric Davidson
Why Did You Seek a Mentor?
“I started coaching after getting a mentor. My main challenge was learning the basics and figuring out how to keep kids engaged.”
How Has This Experience Improved Your Coaching?
“It’s been transformative. I’ve learned how to balance teaching fundamentals with fun activities to keep kids interested.”
Overall Experience
“It’s been fantastic. I’ve gained a better understanding of coaching and how to make sessions enjoyable.”
Advice to Other Coaches
“Why wouldn’t you seek mentorship? It helps you learn the basics, gain fresh perspectives, and discover new activities to keep sessions engaging. Future programmes should focus on adapting to kids’ needs and keeping activities fun, such as introducing scoring competitions or involving coaches more actively.”
Rafa Yam
Why Did You Seek a Mentor?
“I wanted to build confidence and learn how to handle different situations in coaching.”
How Has This Experience Improved Your Coaching?
“It’s helped me relate better to players, run group sessions more effectively, and manage the admin side of coaching. I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t through trial and error.”
Overall Experience
“The mentorship has been incredibly beneficial. It’s filled gaps in my knowledge and boosted my confidence.”
Advice to Other Coaches
“Be adaptable to different players and ready to adjust sessions on the fly. Flexibility is key to creating successful coaching experiences.
Riley McCracken
Why Did You Seek a Mentor?
“I wanted to understand the fundamentals of squash and learn how to create sessions that are both educational and fun. Keeping kids engaged was a challenge for me.”
How Has This Experience Improved Your Coaching?
“It’s enhanced my skills immensely. I’ve learned how to plan activities that match kids’ energy levels, keeping them motivated and engaged.”
Overall Experience
“It’s been amazing. My mentor provided valuable advice and ideas, which have made my coaching more dynamic and enjoyable.”
Advice to Other Coaches
“Seek mentorship—it’s an invaluable opportunity to grow. Structured programmes with clear goals and regular feedback would make future mentorships even better.”
THE FUTURE OF COACHING MENTORSHIP
The stories of Manu and the young coaches highlight mentorship as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. By building confidence, refining skills, and fostering creativity, mentorship strengthens the squash community at every level.
Want to learn more or get involved in mentoring programmes? Contact your district or Squash NZ. Once again thanks to NZCT for their support.
Coming Soon:
Insights from other regions and experienced coaches as they share their journeys as mentors and the impact they’ve had in their regions.
A New Era: MySquash Competitions Launching Soon!
On 29 January 2025, we’re saying goodbye to iSquash and introducing our brand-new competition platform, integrated within your MySquash account.
What’s New for Players?
• Modern Design: Enjoy an upgraded, mobile-friendly interface.
• Club Competitions: Easily join internal club events like ladders, box leagues, or mini-tournaments.
• Create Your Own Games: Set up ladders, box leagues, or competitions with friends.
• Live Scoring: Score tournament or interclub matches directly on your phone.
• SquashLevel for All Players: Even non-graded players can now see their SquashLevel to find better matchups.
• Seamless Integration: Link your MySquash profile with your club’s Hello Club profile (where available) and switch between them effortlessly.
Accessing MySquash Competitions
Simply log in to your MySquash account and click the ‘Competitions’ button in the menu. No more logging into a separate iSquash system!
Do I Need to Do Anything?
If you’re already graded:
• Ensure your MySquash profile is linked to your grading info.
• To check, log in to MySquash, go to the ‘Profile’ page, and confirm your player code, grade, and level appear under your name.
• If you don’t see this information, email support@ squashnz.co.nz to get your profile fixed.
• If your club uses Hello Club and you have an existing MySquash profile:
• Ensure your first name, last name and email address in MySquash are exactly the same as your club Hello Club profile. If not, update these in your MySquash profile to match.
• If your profiles have different email addresses, email support@squashnz.co.nz for help.
How to Set Up a MySquash Account (If You Don’t Have One)
• If you’re a club member, once your club completes its setup, you’ll receive a welcome email to activate your MySquash account.
• Follow the ‘Set Up Account’ button, and you’re ready to go!
Does MySquash Cost Anything?
• For Club Members: Access is included in your club membership fee.
• For Non-Club Members: You can purchase a Lifestyle or Junior Player subscription directly from MySquash. The Competitive Adult subscription is only available to club members.
Entering Tournaments or Viewing Interclub Draws in 2025
• Graded players must use their MySquash account to register for tournaments or view interclub draws.
• For early-season tournaments in 2025, some clubs may still use iSquash. These entries will be transferred to MySquash Competitions when it goes live in January.
• Ensure your club membership is up to date to activate your MySquash account.
Connecting Your New MySquash Profile with Your Club’s Hello Club Profile
If your club uses Hello Club:
• Use the same email address you used in your club profile to set up your MySquash profile once you receive the welcome email.
• Once linked, switch between profiles using the ‘Profile Switcher’ in the top right corner.
Stay tuned for more info and user guides over the next few months as we usher in a new era and the Future of Squash in New Zealand!
Grow the game ‘HAVE-A-GO’ SQUASH
DAY
Overview
Squash Otago (SO), in partnership with the Otago Secondary School Sports Association (OSSSA), hosted a “Have a Go” day to introduce Year 9 and 10 students to squash. This initiative aimed to foster interest and strengthen connections between schools and local squash clubs.
Event Summary
A total of 77 students from seven schools across the Otago region participated. The event was organised into a morning and afternoon session of three hours each:
Session Structure
The day’s activities were designed to provide both an introduction to the sport and an engaging environment for skill development. The programme included:
Welcome: Orientation and encouragement to build enthusiasm.
Warm-Up: Preparing students for physical activity.
Introduction to Squash: Covering basic rules, court layout, and how to hold a racket correctly.
Stations: Students rotated through three key activity stations, each lasting approximately 20 minutes. Activities included:
• Forehand drives
• Serving techniques
• Scoring fundamentals
• Fun games and activities, such as “King of the Court” or mini-games chosen by group coaches.
Execution and Facilitation
Angela Button, SO School Development Coordinator, led the event with assistance from seven squash volunteers, including four junior players. Their involvement not only ensured smooth execution but also provided young participants with relatable role models in the sport.
Outcomes and Feedback
• Feedback from participants, schools, and coaches was overwhelmingly positive. Key outcomes included:
• Strengthened relationships between schools and local clubs.
• Initiated follow-up conversations between SO and schools not previously involved in squash.
• Highlighted the value of junior player involvement as coaches and mentors.
referee - in the hot seat
Referee & Club Background:
Qualified as a District Referee May 2003, then qualified as a National Referee May 2007. I am a life member of Kawaroa Park Squash club and a past President, I am currently the clubs Patron.
Referee Philosophy:
I believe that being a Referee is a privilege, and being honest with the rules application is paramount. Referees are human and sometimes we unintentionally make mistakes.
Current Role as Referee Director:
Whilst I remain qualified as a National / WSO level 3 Referee , I have been Refereeing Director for the last 3 years, which is really an admin role, and have been overseeing the transition of our District Referees and National Referees to WSO level 2 & 3 respectively with the Refereeing Panel.
What does this involve:
The Director and Refereeing Panel is responsible for implementing and overseeing the NZ Refereeing Management Plan which outlines the panel and Director duties and also sets out the duties of the various levels of our WSO referees.
How has the change to World Squash Officiating affected our referees:
Basically, each WSO endorsed referee is now responsible for maintaining their respective WSO level. We are faced with some ongoing logistical challenges now that we are Members of the WSO program, but ultimately as officials we should be stronger for it.
My opponent goes on court for the warm up and hits the ball to themselves 10-20 times before passing it over. Is this allowed?
No. The warm up must be fair for both players. It is usual for a player to hit the ball to themselves 2-3 times and then pass it over to their opponent.
Q A Hey Ref!
Rule: 4.2 The players must have equal opportunities to strike the ball. A Player retaining control of the ball for an unreasonable time is warming up unfairly and the Referee must apply Rule 15 (Conduct)
It is also important to note that the Referee is in control of the match from the time the warm up starts, until the match is concluded.
Do you have a refereeing question or a situation you are not sure about? Chances are others may have the same query. Send your query to our NZ Referees c/mikejack@xtra.co.nz and we will share the answers with the squash community each month.
Please note – every situation is different and without seeing the exact context (player skill, direction of movement etc) we are giving our responses based on the rules and some guidance on how to apply them.
MIKE JACK / National Referee Director
HAMILTON SQUASH & TENNIS CLUB
Sign up via iSquash or email Tyler@squashnz.co.nz
Entries close 28 March
Participating countries
Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Norfolk Island, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tahiti, Vanuatu
Individuals’ 19–21 April 2025
Trans-Tasman (Australia vs New Zealand) 22–23 April 2025
Ellen Pryor
December
Hailing from Te Puke, Ellen Pryor headed to Lincoln University, outside Christchurch, which then led her to settle in Methven. What a gain that was for the Methven Squash Club. Ellen has a huge amount of passion for the game and is always looking at new ways to get people involved.
Ellen took the opportunity early in the year to attend the National Coaching Conference in Christchurch and took what she had learnt back to Methven and set up the Methven Junior Programme targeting primary school children and coached this area herself. She also facilitated Mt Hutt College having the option of squash in their sport programme and had a group of high school students come in once a week to try the sport.
Ellen was one of the drivers amongst a great group of women at the club that started the Ladies Cocktail night as a way for current members to socialise but also a way to introduce new members to the club in a social setting.
Methven Squash Club was given the hosting rights for the D Grade Superchamps in 2024 and to make that event successful you need a team but you also need a passionate person to drive the team along. She was that person. The one that just got things done and made sure the event was successful and she did it all with a huge smile on her face.
One committee member said of Ellen “we get to a meeting to discuss what needs to be done and often it has already been done as Ellen just gets on and does it with no fuss” Squash Midlands and the Methven Squash Club is super stoked to have Ellen in our district. Thank you for all your hard work.
THE LONGEST SQUASH MATCH
In 1976 New Zealander Murray Lilley and Englishman Barry O’Connor played the longest competitive match to that time – 2h 35min. They met in the quarterfinals of the British Amateur championship and Lilley finally won 9-3, 10-8, 2-9, 7-9, 10-8.
The second game lasted 58 minutes. During the match there were 103 lets requested, of which 96 were granted. Lilley had 15 penalty points awarded against him, O’Connor two. In the fifth game the score stayed at 8-8 for 20 minutes. Five times during the last game, and eight times in the match Lilley was warned for time-wasting.
Click here to purchase Long or Short by Joseph Romanos
BEN REES / Warkworth
MOST IMPROVED FEMALE congratulations congratulations 47.9% 40.2%
JULIE MANKTELOW / Nelson MOST IMPROVED MALE
TWO NEW CLUB UPLIFT GUIDES ARE OUT!
SNZ have developed club uplift guidelines to assist clubs in facility and court upgrades. The two latest guides cover lounge and kitchen/bar facitily upgrades. These guides are practical with handy tips and links to suppliers. Check them out in the links below!
Lounge Facilities
A sports club’s atmosphere is pivotal in determining its success and popularity. The lounge or social area of a squash club is not just about displaying sports memorabilia or installing big screens.
Kitchen / Bar Facilities
Whether you’re a well organised club with loyal members, or a small community club that relies on repeat visits, food and drink plays an increasingly important part in the customer experience at your facility. The longer a member or visitor spends at your club the likelier they are to feel a sense of belonging and remain a member. A successful catering operation starts with the appropriate kitchen, bar and servery layout to enable you to prepare and serve with speedy efficiency. What this looks like will vary greatly depending on the size and needs of the club.
Why?
Squash clubs, or sports facilities in general, not only provide a place for physical activity but also act as a community hub or place to socialise for a lot of people.
The provision of a clean, well-maintained accessible kitchen will assist in encouraging more people to visit and be active at your facility and provide an added option for entertainment. As the costs of running a sports club continue to rise, catering revenues for many local sports clubs have become a major source of income. Serve visitors well and they will likely return. This document looks at things to consider when installing or upgrading your Kitchen area. How?
certain club info at relevant times and can be changed to suit the audience. (i.e. Squash in Summer, Rugby in the winter).
Before you start making changes to your facility, you need to understand what the current needs or wants of your club are and what this will look like in the future. You can gather this information through membership feedback, surveys, facility inspections or creating facility user focus groups. Have a look around or ask other clubs what they are experiencing so that you can make informed decisions. Be realistic; obviously it would not be appropriate to install a commercial kitchen if your members are just looking for you to serve a few bags of chips and cans of drink. The information gathered during consultation and engagement will give a better understanding of what people’s needs are, helping to inform design and management solutions. Ultimately it will come down to what outcomes your club has set out to achieve and the money, time, and capacity you can invest.
purpose it serves and how busy your club / facility is. Whether you are looking to refresh an existing kitchen or build a brand new one, here are some things to consider. Cleanliness and Hygiene – Probably the most important consideration. No one wants to purchase food and drink from a kitchen that is unclean
If you are looking for info on developing your facility, jump on our Facility Support page, we have Contractor Contacts, Special Offers and more to help clubs out.
GET READY
The world’s best squash players are coming to Ōtautahi Christchurch for the 2025 New Zealand Squash Open from 4th to 9th March at the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal!
Experience the thrill of top-tier squash in this stunning venue offering spectacular views for all fans. With ticket prices starting at just $20, depending on the day and category, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Whether you’re a local or travelling to Christchurch, come witness history in the making and be part of this incredible sporting event. Let’s fill the theatre with passionate fans and show the world what Ōtautahi is all about!
TICKETS VIA TICKETEK - CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS
SQUASH NEW ZEALAND POIPĀTŪ AOTEAROA
National tournament calendar 2025
4th - 9th
7th - 9th
28th - 29th
19th - 21st
30th - 1st
28th - 30th
4th - 6th
11th - 12th
1st - 3rd
8th - 10th
15th - 16th
10th - 14th
10th - 14th
10th - 14th
10th - 14th
10th - 14th
26th - 28th
29th - 30th
17th - 19th
20th - 21st
New Zealand Open
New Zealand Junior Open
New Zealand Doubles Championships
Oceania Junior Championships
Mitchell Cup & Cousins Shield
North Island Junior Championships
New Zealand Championships + National Graded Champs
South Island Junior Age Groups
NZ Secondary Schools Squash Nationals
Masters Club Team Championships
NZ Inter-District Team Championships
G.J. Gardner Homes National Superchamps
B Grade Superchamps
C Grade Superchamps
D Grade Superchamps
E Grade Superchamps
F/J Grade Superchamps
G.J. Gardner Homes NZ Junior Age Group Championships
NZ Inter-District Junior Team Championships
G.J. Gardner Homes NZ Masters Championships
NZ Inter-District Masters Team Championships
Christchurch Squash Club
Hutt City Squash Club
Hamilton Tennis & Squash Club
Cambridge Rackets Club
Whangarei Squash Club
North Shore Squash Club
Ashburton Squash Club
Hutt City Squash Club
Hutt City Squash Club
Squash Gym Palmerston North
Timaru Squash Club
Otago Squash Club
SquashCity Invercargill
Hawkes Bay Squash Rackets Club
Geyser City Squash Club
Henderson Squash Club
Henderson Squash Club
Nelson Squash Club
Nelson Squash Club
Want to be featured in The Boast?
Email tyler@squashnz.co.nz with stories from your club or district to be featured in the next edition of The Boast.
MAJOR PARTNER
PROGRAMME & TEAM PARTNERS
COMMUNITY TRUST SUPPORTERS
EQUIPMENT & SERVICE PARTNERS
Subscribe to The Boast here