The Boast - March Edition

COLL BEATS WORLD NO1 FOR THE OPTASIA CHAMPIONSHIPS TITLE

NZ SQUASH OPEN VENUE LOCKED IN FOR 2025

NZ SQUASH DOUBLES DONE AND DUSTED IN CHRISTCHURCH

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

CONTENTS

4. Upcoming events

5. Coll Beats World No1

6. The Notice Board / Life member nominations

7. Annual Forum & 2023 Annual Report

8. Christchurch Venue Locked in for NZ Squash Open 2025

9. Club Uplift

12. Volunteer of the month

13. National Coaching Conference

14. NZ Squash Doubles in Christchurch

15. Junior Development

15. Blast from the past

16. SquashLevels FAQ Answered

16. Racketball

17. National Tournament Calendar

Chief Executive Update

Tēnā koutou

I hope everyone is enjoying the start of the season and planning their year of play and engagement! Last weekend was the busiest one of the year, as we had a board meeting, a face-to-face hui with all the district chairs and administrators, and the AGM. We had over 30 people in a conference room over the course of a few days in Wellington, and what impressed me was how solutionfocused and positive everyone was. We use the term ‘Kotahitanga / Unity’ to summarize our culture, and it was a great example of a group working through problems and carving a path forward. We are in the midst

of change, with more to come, and we are all committed to working hard to support our clubs and members. I sincerely hope people remain patient with SquashLevels; it is new, it is different, it will not suit everyone, and hand on heart, I know it is for the best of our sport. It is a more accurate system and one best suited for the future of our sport. I have a bit more time now to start playing myself!

Ngā mihi Martin Dowson

Upcoming events

Coll Beats World No1 in Comeback Victory to Claim London Title

New Zealand’s Paul Coll has beaten World Number One Ali Farag in a mammoth final to claim the Optasia Championships title in London.

Coll, who is World Number Two, started strong to lead the first 7-3 before Farag struck back, delighting the crowd with wonderful recoveries and winning shots as he levelled at 7-all, taking the game 11-8.

The second game was all Farag, continuing his form from the first to take a 5-2 lead before reeling off the next six points to take the game 11-2.

Coll looked to be in trouble in the third as the World Champion moved ahead. However, a few errors from the Egyptian allowed Coll back into the match and the West Coaster managed to level at 9-all, earning and losing a game ball before hitting a deep crosscourt to eventually take the game 12-10 after 20 minutes.

Farag, who is observing the Ramadan fast, took an early lead in the fourth before errors again let Coll back into the match. Farag had one match ball at 10-9, but Coll saved that with a crunching drive before winning the next two points to take the match to a decider.

It was a nail biting, seesawing final game. Farag was up 9-5 before Coll came from behind for the third game in a row to level at 9-all as Farag looked to be cramping up. The West Coaster then hit two winners to take the match and the title in a huge 91-minute match.

“It was a massive battle out there tonight. I just want to say I’ve got the utmost respect for Ali for what he’s doing. Not just for the athlete he is, but for the person he is. I think that’s why he’s so dominant this season. Thank you for all the battles,” said Coll.

“I put lot of work in the off-season to get back to my fighting best. I didn’t feel like I had that last season. I was doing all my breathing techniques, all my mental things because it was a real battle.

“I had to come back several times. I had my coach come down today which really helped me. Seeing my childhood friends in the front row was something special, and hearing my girlfriend who had a tough loss come and support me. All these people around me really got me up today.

“I’m proud of the fight I put in. Another really enjoyable battle with Ali out there. I’ve enjoyed every match this season and I’m happy to get another win.”

Result:

[2] Paul Coll (Nzl) 3-2 [1] Ali Farag (Egy) 8-11, 2-11, 12-10, 12-10, 11-9 (91m)

The notice board

What’s happening in our community

THANK YOU MARILYN DOLAN

Life member Marilyn Dolan retires after 26 plus years of service in squash.

Marilyn Dolan joined squash in 1984 after working with a Squash player she thought it was time to give it a go. Her first go at Interclub was also her careers most embarrassing moment when the team of 3 all new to the sport failed to get a point between them against what must have been a ruthless Palmerston North team.

Marilyn’s favourite shots were the serve which she practiced for hours and a drop shot (when it was on). Reaching a career high of C1 before injury and age set in forcing her playing days to come to an end.

Marilyns real contribution was off the court however, she has held many roles over the years within Levin and Foxton Squash Clubs as well as serving on the Central Squash Board/committee. Marilyn has been the iSquash Administrator and District Captain since 1995 and is often the go to for advice with anything to do with iSquash. She can be heard speaking about how wonderful the squash family is and how welcoming people are no matter what club you walk into. Marilyns contribution to Squash in the Central District has been immeasurable and we wish her a relaxing retirement.

Thank you Marilyn!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TWO NEW SQUASH BOP LIFE MEMBERS

The last Squash BOP life members were appointed 11 years ago in 2013. These two gentlemen have over many years both made significant contributions in their own and different ways to both NZ Squash.

Wayne Werder

Manager for six years (1998-2004), on the Squash NZ Board (20072013), including as Chair of the Squash NZ Board in 2012. Wayne was also Assistant Coach/Manager to the 2017 World Doubles Championships and the 2018 Commonwealth Games teams. However it is his leadership, and driving force in the successful campaign to host the 2017 World Junior Squash Championships in Tauranga and again with the New Zealand Festival of Squash in 2022 and 2023, where he has made a significant contribution to squash in the bay, bringing the world’s best players to the Bay to inspire the next generation of squash players (and some of the last generation too).

Robbie Wyatt

Robbie Wyatt started doing a bit of coaching when he was a pro-player in Canada in the early-mid 1980s then started doing more coaching when he moved back to NZ full time in the mid 1990’s. One of his coaching highlights was working with Lelani Rorani (formally Joyce) when she won her second British Open title and became world number one is the early 2000’s. He was a selector for the NZ Juniors and SNZ NZ Performance Coach of the Year in 2013. He was the Coach of the NZ World Junior Boys team in 2014, and NZ World Juniors Girls Team in 2018. Starting his Squash BOP District Coach role in 2007, he has spent 17 years connecting with more bay players, squads, coaches, junior convenors, clubs and committees than anyone else. In that time we have had significant success on and off the court including with our BOP Senior Womens Team winning a ThreePeat, many Junior National Titles.

annual forum /

On 22 and 23 March, we held our annual face-to-face forum, bringing together the SNZ Board, staff, and every district chair or board member, along with their district administrator, to collectively work towards enhancing the sport’s experience for our players and adding further value to clubs. We take pride in our achievements in 2023 and are excited to share our annual report, which can be accessed through the link below, to showcase the highlights of the year. We’ve designed it to be visually appealing yet informative for anyone interested in our sport and our initiatives.

The key themes addressed during the weekend included improving our collaboration, which we refer to as Kotahitanga/unity. We delved into strategies for more effectively supporting clubs in enhancing their facilities and coaching, collaborated on MySquash 2025, and discussed the role of districts in talent development support.

check out our annual report for 2023

Additionally, we were honoured to host a guest speaker from Sport NZ, who provided valuable insights into their strategic direction. Of particular relevance to every district and club in the country were the next steps outlined to facilitate the process of re-registering their constitutions, which must be completed by early 2026.

Iconic Ōtautahi Christchurch Venue Locked in for NZ Squash Open in 2025

The iconic Isaac Theatre Royal is set to play host to the world’s best squash athletes, with the venue secured for the 2025 New Zealand Squash Open in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.

The iconic Isaac Theatre Royal is set to play host to the world’s best squash athletes, with the venue secured for the 2025 New Zealand Squash Open in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.

The theatre, which was built in 1908, will be decked out with a glass court on stage, allowing fans a spectacular view as the event is contested from March 4th to 9th, 2025.

“Christchurch is fortunate to have a range of wonderful facilities and following a thorough scope and review of potential venues by the Local Committee, we’re delighted to have selected and secured the Isacc Theatre Royal for the 2025 NZ Squash Open,” said Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa Chief Executive Martin Dowson.

“It’s going to be amazing to have the best squash athletes in the world on court in the beautiful Isaac Theatre Royal. We know South Islanders love their sport and we expect international fans, as well as fans from around the country to attend so we’re looking forward to fantastic crowds and great competition.”

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 location will be especially significant for New Zealand world #4 Paul Coll who grew up in Greymouth and went to school in Christchurch.

“It’s pretty awesome to get to play a top competition at home in front of friends and family,” said Coll.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if the whole of Greymouth travels over so it’s going to be an entertaining event.”

The New Zealand Squash Open features New Zealand’s top squash athletes, as well as many of the best squash athletes from around the globe.

The Open was launched in the mid-1970s and has been reinstated in recent years. Tauranga hosted the event in 2022 and 2023, generating significant economic benefits for the region.

“It will be the first time the New Zealand Squash Open has ever been held in the South Island and we’re looking forward to showcasing the top level of squash to the community there,” said Dowson.

Christchurch NZ Head of Major Events Karena Finnie says, “We are delighted to welcome The New Zealand Squash Open to our vibrant, friendly city for the first time. Ōtautahi is a sporting city through and through, so to be celebrating squash in Christchurch, at one of the city’s most iconic venues is really exciting. I encourage all athletes and supporters to find some balance during the event and enjoy the unique experience that Ōtautahi offers.”

The New Zealand Squash Open will be run by Squash Events Canterbury and is a joint venture with the Professional Squash Association, with the governing body helping to fund the event. Squash New Zealand would also like to acknowledge support from Sport New Zealand.

The New Zealand Squash Open will also be held in Christchurch in 2026.

CLUB UPLIFT CHALLENGE LAUNCHES:

A Game-Changer for Squash Clubs Nationwide

Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa is thrilled to launch its Club Uplift Challenge which will support clubs around the country to upgrade their facilities and services. The Club Uplift Challenge aims to support clubs and increase their member satisfaction. It has three main offerings which cover enhancing facilities, improving club coaches and upskilling volunteers and club programmes.

Enhancing Facilities

With the fantastic support from G.J. Gardner Homes, we has curated a network of providers and secured exclusive deals with leading companies including PlaceMakers, Resene and Belgotex Flooring, to facilitate club facility upgrades. From flooring to paint, clubs will have access to premium products and services at discounted rates, along with comprehensive guidelines to enhance their appeal.

Improving Club Coaches

Recognising the pivotal role of coaches in player development, we are committed to providing support to club coaches. This includes free of charge mentorship opportunities, development resources, and access to licensing programmes such as SquashSkills, to assist coaches to excel in their roles.

Upskilling volunteers and Club Programmes

Through the development of guideline documents and resources, we aim to strengthen club programmes and provide support to volunteers. From organising club nights to hosting in-house competitions, clubs will receive the guidance and assistance needed to thrive. A national working bee is scheduled for March 9th to kickstart the action. Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa will share clubs’ success stories throughout the year and clubs will also have the chance to compete for the ‘Best Club Uplift 2024 Award’, with prizes and recognition awaiting the most innovative and impactful initiatives.

NEW ZEALAND SQUASH CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024

FRIDAY 5TH - SUNDAY 7TH JULY

DEVOY SQUASH & FITNESS CENTRE, TAURANGA

• MEN’S AND WOMEN’S OPEN DIVISIONS ONLY - TOP 32 PLAYERS ENTERED AS AT 10 MAY

• ENTER VIA ISQUASH

• $50 ENTRY FEE

• ENTRIES CLOSE 10 MAY

• INFO: WWW.SQUASHNZ.CO.NZ

David Collins

March

In June 2016 a tragic fire destroyed Kerikeri’s two court squash complex leaving the squash community with no courts for 7 very long years.

In November 2023 the Kerikeri Squash club’s new 4 court complex including doubles courts were completed and the official opening was held on 10 February, 2024.

David Collins was the driving force behind this rebuild and all that has involved over these 7 years, in particular the time period from 1 October 2022 until 30 September 2023. The countless hours of discussions and negotiations, consents and reports with the Far North Council, lawyers, architects, builders, the Kerikeri Sports Complex and so much more.

None of this would have been possible without the massive amount of time and energy David has spent on numerous funding applications, some successful and some not, but he has been relentless in his goal and has secured over $1.8 million dollars - without which this rebuild would simply have not been possible. In addition, he has also successfully secured funding in August for a Hello Club system and junior equipment kits so the club was ready to hit the ground running upon opening.

David Collins has been a member of the Kerikeri Squash

Club since 2006 and Club President since 2014. Over these very tough and frustrating years he has led a strong, loyal committee who have remained focused and optimistic with their vision for their club’s future, by fundraising, getting sponsorship as well as local and national publicity to ensure that this became a reality. During these years of having no local courts, David has kept a contingent of club members playing squash by arranging to use the Kaikohe Squash courts, and while not ideal due to being more than 30 minutes drive from Kerikeri and the courts being very run down, David’s effort has kept these players engaged with squash, when otherwise it would be likely they would find other sports closer to home and lost to the game.

Before the fire devastated their club, Kerikeri was Northlands second largest club and growing with over 140 members. Already, their membership is over 250, making them the biggest Northland club and it is clear that Kerikeri Squash club will once again be a vital link in Northland. Tournaments, interclub, coaching programmes, including juniors and pupils from local schools eager to participate in squash, are already planned for 2024 - with their first open tournament on 19-21 April.

Coaching

NATIONAL COACHING CONFERENCE / 14th-17th March Richmond Club Christchurch

The Richmond Club in Christchurch recently hosted the National Coaching Conference, a four-day event that brought together coaches from all parts of the country. From the 14th to the 17th of March, the conference buzzed with insightful sessions, practical workshops, and engaging discussions, offering a valuable platform for professional development and knowledge exchange.

The conference kicked off with the Coach Developer Connection, a dynamic session that welcomed coach developers not only from the squash community but also from hockey and cricket. Guided by the expertise of facilitators Pat Barwick, Toby Doyle, and Ben Owers, participants delved into the intricacies of mentoring and coach observation.

Day two of the conference focused on district and E2E (end-to-end) coaches, featuring sessions led by experienced coaches such as Paul Hornsby and Johnathan Kemp. A highlight of the day was the contribution of guest presenter Professor SKate Millar from the University of Canterbury, who shared invaluable insights into skill learning methodologies, enriching the coaching repertoire of attendees.

As the weekend unfolded, the conference expanded its scope to embrace a wider audience. An open format welcomed the participants to explore diverse topics ranging from conditioned games to strength and conditioning principles. Sessions also delved into working with super champs teams, junior program

development, and much more, catering to the varied interests and needs of over 30 participants throughout the four days.

The National Coaching Conference proved to be a resounding success, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth within the squash coaching community. With the variety of sessions and speakers, the event not only elevated coaching knowledge but also reinforced the sense of camaraderie and shared passion that defines the squash fraternity in New Zealand. As coaches return to their respective regions and clubs armed with newfound knowledge, the impact of this gathering promises to resonate far beyond the weekend, bringing the coach development vision to life as “ThrivingSupported-Connected”.

NZ Squash doubles

CHRISTCHURCH SQUASH CLUB / 1-2 March

Our first national event of 2024 was held on the 1st – 2nd March at the Christchurch Squash Club with great success. The New Zealand Doubles Championships was a hit with 59 teams competing across 7 divisions.

The South Islands came to play dominating the draws and taking out three and a half of the six national titles. A massive congratulations to all the title winners and a special shout out to Matthew Campbell and David McKee for taking out the social division.

NZ DOUBLES RESULTS:

Women’s Open Champions:

Sophie Hodges & Winona-Jo Joyce

Men’s Open Champions:

Chris Van Der Salm & Jayden Millard

Mixed Open Champions:

Apa Fatialofa & Sophie Hodges

Women’s 35+ Champions: Mikayla Kerr & Erin Ellery

Men’s 35+ Champions:

Kashif Shuja & Oliver Johnston

Master’s 50+ Champions: Scott Gardiner & Nigel Lloyd

Sophie Hodges & Winona-Jo Joyce

Apa Fatialofa & Sophie Hodges

Kashif Shuja & Oliver Johnston

Chris Van Der Salm & Jayden Millard

Mikayla Kerr & Erin Ellery

Scott Gardiner & Nigel Lloyd

Junior Development

END TO END PATHWAY

It has been another hectic month for Jonathan and the New Zealand based development players. Regional training camps have taken place in Tauranga and Palmerston North and a national training camp in Wellington.

That’s 50 juniors just this month who have been able to directly access high quality coaching. The first 3 months of the year have been considered a building block where training camps have had the over arching theme of “train like a pro” where players are learning how to bring intensity, purpose and focus to every training session, and then understand how that fits into their overall plan and goals. The focus has been on developing solid fundamentals. Addressing technical issues and building consistency. As we head into April players will shift into a competition phase. Training camps will be more focused on how to “play like a pro”. Match tactics and analysis. Building an understanding for the game and learning to handle the pressures of competition.

CAMPAIGNS

The team to represent New Zealand at the Trans Tasman test series was announced on March 1st. There is an exited vibe among the players who leave for Melbourne on April 7th. The team will first play in the Oceania Junior Open and Australian Junior Open for taking on the Aussies in the test series April 15th –16th. Best of luck to everyone who is heading over for the tournaments, lets show the Aussies how its done.

THE SECRET SOCIETY IN HAMILTON…

In its early days Hamilton Squash Rackets Club was more like a secret society - membership restricted to 40 professionals, no visitors permitted, an unlisted phone number and absolutely no information about the club to be given to the Waikato Times.

Members of the club provided supper each Wednesday evening on a rotation basis. Until 1940, this was a private club with a £1.1.0 entrance fee.

To learn more about the story of New Zealand squash, purchase ‘Long or Short?’ by Joseph Romanos here

squashlevels FAQs ANSWERED

If you missed our recent webinar on SquashLevels and want to better understand how our grading system has changed, you can watch the recording on demand here

What is the key difference between our old and new grading systems?

A key point to help understand the difference between our old and new grading system is we no longer have grading ‘points’ that are won or lost.

Each player has a ‘Level’ which is a ratio that measures your current playing form. SquashLevels adjusts your Level after each match based on the full game scores and how well you did against how you were expected to do against your opponent. If you do much better than expected, you can move up a lot. Of course, that probably means your opponent did much worse than expected and can move down a lot too. If you both played as predicted, there would be little movement.

Grading list updates

Following feedback and observations of how the new grading list system is working in real-time since the launch on 31 January, we have been exploring solutions with SquashLevels to improve how some Level changes are being calculated.

We’ve taken the opportunity before the Levels become too ingrained to make some algorithmic changes which have been pushed live early March. One of the changes was to lift the levels at the lower end which has required an adjustment of the grading bands. Read the full details of the changes here and view the new grading bands here

racketball

Racketball is back and better than ever in 2024 with a number of new events coming up throughout the season, including the Waikato Doubles which was held for the first time on the 16 March.

WHAT IS RACKETBALL?

Also known as Squash57, Racketball is played on a standard squash court with a slightly larger racket and a bigger, bouncier ball - which encourages an easy to adopt form of squash. Although Racketball may be considered a ‘lighter’ version of the game, it is great fun, offers a great workout and is ideal for beginners, those advancing in years, or anyone wanting something a little different.

Head to our Racketball page to find out more

Waikato Doubles

SQUASH NEW ZEALAND POIPĀTŪ AOTEAROA Racketball EVENT CALENDAR

Devoy

Devoy

Kawaroa

North

NEW ZEALAND

Squash Gym

Palmerston North

26th - 28th April

ENTRY

Enter in iSquash

Entries close 14 April

Entry fee: $40

VENUE

Squash Gym

20 Linton Street

Palmerston North

ENQUIRIES

For more details

contact Tyler Duberly tyler@squashnz.co.nz

Feb March

April May June July August September

SQUASH NEW ZEALAND POIPĀTŪ AOTEAROA National tournament calendar

Date

16th - 18th

1st - 3rd

26th - 28th

17th -19th

24th - 26th

31st - 2nd

7th - 9th

21st - 23rd

21st - 23rd

28th - 30th

5th - 7th 12th - 14th

19th - 21st

2nd - 4th

9th - 11th

17th

31st - 1st

18th - 21st

18th - 21st

18th - 21st

18th - 21st

18th - 21st

October

4th - 6th

7th - 8th

18th - 20th

Event

Rochelle Hobbs Memorial Henderson PSA Open

NZ Doubles Championships

NZ Junior Open

Auckland Open PSA Challenger

Oceania Closed PSA

Mitchell Cup & Cousins Shield

Morrinsville PSA Challenger

National Graded Championships

Skillzea PSA Open

Trident Homes South Island Open PSA Challenger

NZ Squash Championships

South Island Junior Age Groups

North Island Junior Age Groups

NZ Seconday Schools Squash Nationals

Masters Club Team Championships

NZ Racketball Festival

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

Level PSA

Premier Premier PSA PSA

Major PSA Regional PSA PSA

Premier Regional Regional Other Regional Regional Major Major Major Major Major Major Premier Major Major Major Month

21st - 22nd

NZ Inter-District Masters Team Championships

District

Auckland

Canterbury Central

Auckland

Auckland

Eastern Waikato

Auckland Otago

Canterbury BOP Otago BOP

Wellington

Central BOP Otago Northland Waikato

Midlands

Central Southland

Auckland

Auckland

Wellington

Wellington Club

Henderson Squash Club

Christchurch Squash Club

Squash Gym Palmerston North

North Shore Squash Club

Papakura Tennis & Squash Club

Hawkes Bay Squash Rackets Club

Morrinsville Squash Club

Henderson Squash Club

Pirates Squash Club

Richmond & Christchurch Football SC

Devoy Squash & Fitness Centre

Otago Squash Club

Taupō Squash Club

Hutt City Squash Club

Whanganui Squash Club

Devoy Squash & Fitness Centre

Otago Squash Club

Whangarei Squash Club

Hamilton Squash & Tennis Club

Methven Squash Club

Kawaroa Park Squash Club

Squash City Invercargill

North Shore Squash Club

North Shore Squash Club

Tawa & Manā Squash Clubs

Tawa & Manā Squash Clubs

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