OCTOBER 2024 NOVEMBER 2024
SQUASHLEVELS SURVEY ANALYSIS INSIGHTS REVEALED
2024 G.J. GARDNER HOMES JUNIOR AND MASTERS
AGE GROUPS & TEAMS CHAMPIONSHIPS
EXTEND YOUR HORIZONS, BECOME A REFEREE
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4. Press release: Squash Exclusion from CWG
5. The Notice Board
6. 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes Junior Age Group
8. 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes Junior Inter District Teams
10. PSA Squash Tour - Exciting comeback for Joelle
12. 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes Masters Age Group
14. 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes Masters Inter District Teams
16. SNZ High-Performance Programme
18. Coach Profile - Pete Arnott
19. Club Showcase: Invercargill Junior Programmes
20. Referee - Why become a referee?
21. Hey Ref / Squash Trivia
22. Volunteer of the month
23. Blast from the past
24. SquashLevels - results from the survey
27. Club Uplift - Squash court glass walls at Panmure
Stay updated with our other channels
Chief Executive Update
Tēnā koutou
Over the past month, I’ve had the privilege of traveling across our beautiful country, connecting with our incredible volunteer club leadersthe true backbone of squash and vital to its future success. The 15 huis / town hall meetings are now complete, and I can confidently say I feel the pulse of what matters most to our clubs in New Zealand.
The standout highlight was watching John Fletcher showcase the new MySquash Competitions system, set to replace iSquash when it retires on 29th January. The platform looks modern, is mobile-friendly, and brings exciting new features tailored especially for social and casual players.
I also had the pleasure of competing in the G.J. Gardner NZ Masters in Wellington. A huge thank you to Ann Smith, Anneka Weterman, and the dedicated team at Tawa and Mana clubs. Their hard work created an exceptional event for all participants. Although I didn’t win a game, the experience was nothing short of fantastic - well done to everyone involved!
Ngā mihi Martin Dowson
SQUASH NEW ZEALAND POIPĀTŪ AOTEAROA DISAPPOINTED BY EXCLUSION FROM 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES PROGRAMME
Squash New Zealand is disappointed with the exclusion of squash from the sports programme for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Squash debuted at the Kuala Lumpur 1998 Commonwealth Games and has been a mainstay on the programme for the previous seven editions of the Games. It is one of New Zealand’s most successful Commonwealth Games sports, with squash athletes collecting an impressive 16 medals, including eight gold.
“Today is a disappointing day for squash athletes and fans,” said Squash New Zealand Poipātū Aotearoa CEO Martin Dowson.
“The Commonwealth Games is one of the pinnacle events for squash and our athletes love the opportunity to compete for New Zealand and be part of the New Zealand team.
“We know that the Commonwealth Games also help to highlight our
sport and drive new players to try squash, so it’s a real loss for the sport that squash isn’t on the programme for Glasgow 2026.”
While disappointed, Dowson acknowledged the unique challenges faced by the Glasgow organisers, who were called upon to host the Games on short notice.
“We understand that the circumstances around Glasgow’s hosting have required compromises to ensure the Games go ahead, and unfortunately, not all traditional sports could be accommodated,” he said.
“We share in the disappointment of other sports that have also missed out and remain hopeful that squash will return to the Commonwealth Games programme in future editions.”
In the meantime, Dowson says organisation will keep preparing for Los Angeles 2028, where squash will make its Olympic debut.
The notice board
What’s happening in our community
THANK YOU BROOKE
A huge thank you to Brooke Pryor for her invaluable work covering Tyler Duberly’s maternity leave. Brooke made a positive impact on our national events in 2024. We wish her all the best in her new role with Volleyball NZ
DRIVING CHANGE TOGETHER:
MySquash Launch Supported by Club Leaders
Over the past month, SNZ has spoken directly with 157 club representatives, covering 85% of our clubs, to support the full release of MySquash on 29th January next year. This transition includes retiring iSquash, introducing MySquash Competitions, a member management system linking all clubs into one network, and implementing the new affiliation model. We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers committed to ensuring a positive impact on members - thank you to our club change leaders!
FEATURED IN THE NZ HERALD:
Historic national squash teams’ title win to Gisborne’s Surf City
Gisborne’s Surf City Squash Club has won the Men’s B Grade National Championship for the first time in the club’s history.
The club won four titles in National SuperChamps week, held across five locations.
This was the second time the club had achieved this feat. In 2022 it became the first club to win four New Zealand titles in the same year.
Read the full article HERE on The NZ Herald’s news site
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST: NZ Masters Team Manager for the Trans Tasman Test Series
We’re looking for a Team Manager for the NZ Masters team for the upcoming Trans Tasman Masters Test Series in Perth, scheduled for 2 to 6 September 2025.
This role involves coordinating logistics, managing communications, and supporting our athletes throughout the event.
Please submit your expression of interest to catherine@squashnz.co.nz by December 1.
G.J. Gardner homes
NZ Junior Age Groups
The 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes New Zealand Junior Age Group Championships concluded with another thrilling showcase of junior squash talent from across the country.
Held at North Shore Squash Club, the competition brought together New Zealand’s best young players, each representing their region with remarkable skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
The event featured players across U19, U17, U15, U13 age divisions as well as a social U11 division, with intense matches highlighting the skill progression and commitment of New Zealand’s rising squash stars. Over 200 participants competed throughout the week, making it one of the most dynamic and engaging junior events of the year.
From early rounds to the finals, spectators were treated to an incredible level of competition, with many matches showcasing exceptional rallies, resilience, and tactical brilliance. Players demonstrated respect and camaraderie, both on and off the court, creating a supportive and inspiring environment for all.
Special thanks to Lisa Ashton at North Shore Squash Club and the dedicated team of volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth, professional, and memorable experience for all players, families, and supporters. The venue was well-prepared, creating an ideal setting for competition, and volunteers offered essential support that made the event possible.
We are excited to see the continued growth of junior squash in New Zealand and look forward to next year’s event. Congratulations again to all players, coaches, supporters, and officials for making the 2024 New Zealand Junior Age Group Championships a success!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CHAMPIONS IN EACH AGE CATEGORY:
U19 Boys
Oliver Dunbar
U19 Girls
Anabel Romero-Gemmell
U17 Boys
Brodie Bennett
U17 Girls
Aria Bannister
U15 Boys
Vihan Chathury
U15 Girls
Amalia Ricketts
U13 Boys
Jude Lim
U13 Girls
Yusra Rashid
U11 Boys
Elijah Delaney
U11 Girls
Addison Rouse
G.J. Gardner homes Junior Inter-District Teams Competition
The Junior Inter-District Teams Competition is a highly anticipated event that proceeds the individual’s event, bringing together regional teams from across New Zealand for a dynamic showcase of young talent and team spirit. Beyond the intense competition on the court, the InterDistrict Teams Competition fosters camaraderie, resilience, and sportsmanship, creating memorable experiences for the players and their families.
2025 TEAM WINNNERS
BOYS - CANTERBURY GIRLS - WELLINGTON
Wellington (Left to Right)
Mackenzie Tait, Liberty Jones, Maiden-Lee Coe, Sophia Gonzalez, Charlotte Haxton, Gemma Gee (manager)
Canterbury (Left to Right) Jack Gibb, Charlie Prince, Christopher Hebberd, Jack Frisken, Dominic Lim, Mike Allred (manager)
PSA Squash tour
KING SAVES MATCH BALL TO DOWN AZMAN AS CHINA OPEN RETURNS AFTER FIVE-YEAR HIATUS
New Zealand’s Joelle King launched an exciting comeback on day one of the China Open at the Shanghai Oriental Sports Center as the Silver-level event returned to the PSA Squash Tour after a five-year hiatus.
World No.85 King, who was absent from the Tour from October 2023 until August 2024 after suffering back and knee injuries, impressed as she came back from a game down and later saved a match ball against Malaysian World No.39 Aifa Azman.
On the centre court - one of four dazzling all-glass courts at the Shanghai Oriental Sports Center - the former World No.3 may have feared the worst after dropping the first game 9-11, but hit back to move into the lead with 11-7 and 11-8 wins before being pegged back 3-11 in game four as Azman forced a fifth game.
King seemed to be in total control at 7-3 up in the decider, only for a furious barrage from Azman to leave King staring down the barrel at 9-10.
King, however, dug in to save match ball and, after seeing three of her own match balls saved, finally converted her fourth to clinch a 15-13 win.
The win comes a week after King publicly confirmed she is working towards competing for New Zealand at the LA 2028 Olympic Games, where squash will make its Olympic debut.
Results: China Open 2024 Women’s Joelle King (NZL) bt Aifa Azman (MAS) 3-2: 9-11, 11-7, 11-8, 3-11, 15-13
Rachel Arnold (MAS) bt Joelle King (NZL ) 3-0: 11-8, 11-6, 11-4
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.
G.J. Gardner homes NZ Masters Age Groups
The 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes New Zealand Masters Age Group Championships wrapped up a fantastic weekend of squash 18th-22nd October, with players from across New Zealand aged 35-75+ competing in a spirited and skilful display of talent.
Held at Mana and Tawa Squash Club, the event brought together experienced players across various age divisions, each showcasing not only their expertise but also their love for the game.
The competition featured many exciting and closely contested matches, with competitors demonstrating
the level of tactical skill, agility, and dedication that make Masters squash so engaging to watch. Each age division saw fierce but friendly rivalries unfold, delivering unforgettable moments that left an impression on both participants and spectators.
TO THE CHAMPIONS IN EACH DIVISION:
Mens:
35+ Evan Williams
40+ Sam Atkins
45+ Kashif Shuja
50+ Matt Green
55+ Craig Endres
60+ Brett Meyer
65+ Mark Waldin
70+ Phil Tough
75+ Peter Millar
Women’s
35+ Holly Shuja
40+ Jaclyn Kemp
45+ Suk Hee Kim
50+ Juli Voykovic
55+ Amanda Kennedy
60+ Helen Gibbs
70+ Freda Walker
75+ Diana Connolly
G.J. Gardner homes NZ Masters Inter district teams
The idividual Masters event was topped off with the Masters Inter-district teams’ event which sees players from each age group facing off again each. The teams event brought together District teams in a spirited showdown, emphasizing teamwork and regional pride. This team competition added an exciting layer to the championships, uniting players as they worked together to represent their district.
A special thanks to tournament director Anneka Weterman, Squash Wellington’s Ann and Bryan Smith, Scott Renner and Peter Bowers from the Mana and Tawa Squash Clubs and the dedicated volunteers who helped make the event smooth and enjoyable for all involved. The venue provided an ideal setting for the championships, and the volunteers’ enthusiasm and commitment greatly contributed to the positive atmosphere.
The energy and sportsmanship displayed this year set a high standard for the next Masters Age Group Championships, and we look forward to seeing these talented players return in 2025 in Nelson. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to making the 2024 New Zealand Masters Age Group Championships a standout event!
Auckland Masters team (Left to Right)
Julian Conder, Julie Voykovic, Marc Bush, Suk-Hee Kim, Paul Mason, Alessandra Ceriani, Brett Meyer, Tracey Kimble, Mark Waldin, Karen Braddock, Brian Wickett, Opera Monzari
End to end player pathway
REFINED FRAMEWORK FOR SQUASH NEW ZEALAND POIPĀTŪ AOTEAROA HIGH PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME
Recently, Squash New Zealand (SNZ) has been finalising its high-performance strategy and framework to present to High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ). This plan aims to enhance the performance of New Zealand squash players internationally.
As part of this strategy, SNZ has engaged with players, parents, coaches, and district representatives. The goal is to have more New Zealand squash players getting better faster, ultimately leading to greater success on the world stage.
A key element of the strategy is collaboration with districts to develop a broader talent pool. We hope to achieve this through a shared calendar, resources, and alignment between district programmes and the national programme. Additionally, SNZ aims to prepare more players to perform in line with international standards through the introduction of objective benchmarking against international standards. This allows SNZ to track high-potential players at different ages, providing them with clear targets and a realistic understanding of the level of other players around the world, without leaving New Zealand, fostering a competitive environment for aspiring athletes.
With the strategy finalised, the next step is implementation. Summer fitness programmes have been shared with players and coaches to kick off their training.
To launch the summer training season, SNZ is hosting a team call with our National Performance Coach Jonathan Kemp, who will offer squash training tips. Strength and conditioning coach Scott Logan will also discuss fitness strategies, helping participants make the most of their summer training and addressing any fitness-related questions.
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
Coach Profile
PETE ARNOTT
Tararua Squash Club
How long have you been involved in squash, both as a player and a coach?
My first membership was Palmerston North Squash Club about 40 years ago. I have coached or taught in one way or another as long as I can remember, but my first paid squash coaching job was just under 15 years ago. I moved to full time coaching about five years ago.
What motivated you to start coaching?
Teaching and communicating concepts has always felt as though it was naturally the right thing for me to be doing. Coaching professionally started for me when I was helping with the junior programme at Tararua and one of the parents approached me to coach her individually. My ongoing motivation has just been an unusually strong passion for squash as such a worthwhile activity and a great environment to be part of.
How would you describe your coaching philosophy?
My coaching philosophy is fairly simple: it is about finding solutions and identifying the next thing to add to someone’s squash. Constantly evolving as a coach is important to me so as not to limit what I can offer students. At whatever level from beginner to highest level squash I just want to help add value to anyone’s squash experience. Having an eye for technical detail, it pleases me to see a polished technician.
What are some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had as a coach? and what do you enjoy most about coaching?
When you become deeply invested in a relationship with your student and their family, when that student achieves something significant, and their mother looks at you with tears in her eyes saying “you did that” it is hard to describe how rewarding that feels. I have been fortunate to have had that happen a few times and it is certainly satisfying to feel that level of appreciation. In terms of a rewarding event, I would have to say my C-grade ladies dream team winning Superchamps at Okato Club was my favorite. I called them my dream team because it was the first Superchamps team I had coached, comprised entirely of my one-on-one students. It was a very exciting and emotional occasion, the team really lived up to their name.
What advice would you give to aspiring coaches?
My advice to aspiring coaches would be to make sure you have had a significant amount of coaching yourself. Get yourself a coach and mentor and experience that side of a coaching relationship, and be your coach’s best student! I was fortunate to have had time with the late great Bill Pye, and other coaches since and have developed a great appreciation of them.
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what your student needs from you. Why did they come to you for guidance? What are you setting out to achieve as a team? There are so many different reasons for people seeking a coach and the agenda should be theirs rather than yours.
Club Showcase:
Squash City
INVERCARGILL JUNIOR PROGRAMMES
Format
• Four separate sessions for varying ability levels.
• Thursday afternoon – beginner group from 4.45pm-5.30pm. For players from age 5.
• $20 per term for 10 weeks.
• Monday afternoon – three groups between 4.15pm-7.30pm. J Grade level, E Grade level and new HP group.
• Times work around availability of coaches.
• HP group is selection-based and seeing big improvements from juniors in this group. 5 players in this group.
Participants
• Open to all junior players including non-members.
• 14 players in the beginner group this term, usually around 4-6 new players each time.
• 20 players in the Monday afternoon groups.
Promotion
• Social media and word of mouth.
Why it works:
• Have a key person driving and coordinating the programmes.
• A pool of six volunteer coaches who help run the various sessions.
• Invest in the coaches with upskilling opportunities and providing them the tools they need to give them confidence.
• Build a team environment for the coaches to feel a part of and support each other.
• Coaches are driven by giving back to the sport and the enjoyment of seeing the juniors improve.
• Once the juniors are in, they get the parents coming along and playing too.
Social media promotion
referee
WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO BECOME A REFEREE?
This is a question that is often put to our current and prospective referees. Short answer, is that there are many different reasons – giving back to the sport, improving understanding of the rules, getting the best seat to see the matches, the list goes on...
However, we are also starting to see a number of NZ referees featuring on the international stage and this opens up opportunity not only to referee matches at a higher level, it also takes them to some amazing places and events.
So, this month, we are going to take a look at some recent and upcoming international appointments:
2022
2 refs - Commonwealth Games, Birmingham UK
2 refs - World Games, Birmingham USA
1 ref - World Women’s Teams, Egypt
2023
1 ref - PSA tournaments, Tasmania
2 refs - PSA tournaments, Malaysia
2 refs - World Juniors, Gold Coast
2 refs - Oceania Champs, Fiji
6 refs - World Men’s Teams, Tauranga NZ
2024
1 ref - World Tour Finals, Egypt
3 refs - PSA tournaments, Malaysia
1 ref - World Men’s and Women’s teams, Hong Kong
If you ask any of those who have attended these events, they would tell you that it’s not just about the squash and being in the hot seat. Refereeing has taken them to new places and provided experiences which extend far beyond the squash court. Maybe that’s another reason to consider becoming part of the referee network.
What is the correct thing to say at the start of a match?
squash trivia
Jack Smith to serve, Tom Jones to receive, Best of 5 games, Love all.
Q A Hey Ref!
For further information on the Marker’s calls, take a look at page 13 of the rule book.
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.
Q1: Which district has won the Master’s inter-district teams (Christchurch Cup) for the past 8 years?
Q2: What term is used for a shot that hits the side wall at the intersection of the side wall and the floor?
Q3. How long is a standard racket?
Q4. What country was the first glass walled court installed?
Q5: Who was the first female to win a World Open title?
Q6:What is the annual Platinum tournament called that is held in New York?
Q7: What district had won the most national team titles this year?
Q8: What nickname is given to the World Squash Championships trophy?
Answers
A8: The “Holy Grail” of squash
A7: Wellington - Senior Men’s and Junior Women’s
A6: The tournament of Champions
A5: Heather Mckay (Aus) 1967
A4: Egypt
A3: 68.6cm (27 inches)
A2: A “Nick” Shot
A1: Auckland
Penny Kean
Penny Kean rejoined Devonport Squash Club in November last year after hiatus in the South Island for a few years. Once back with us she jumped back into club activities with a vengeance!
Known for her tricky short game, and very partial to a post-match warm-down with a dram of whiskey, she immediately set about re-energising the Women’s side of the club. She grabbed hold of the Squash NZ ‘Squash Squad’ promotion and generated great interest in our local area via asocial media and advertising in the local paper. She involved the Club Coach and led the program over four weeks, and using her not-insignificant powers of persuasion, converted almost all the participants into full members. The majority of the new women are so enthused with their experience, they start interclub straight away!
Since the initial event, Penny has organised and run several further Womens Beginners programs. She takes great care in creating a fun, collegial and nonthreatening environment for new female players to have a go at our great game. The programmes incorporate
technical coaching sessions, drills, match play and, (crucially!) drinks, nibbles and spot prizes at the end. The success of her efforts is readily measured in our women’s membership numbers. The club had 13 female members in Oct 23 and at time of writing we now have 38!
Being a work-a-holic, building the squash membership was not enough for her – Penny also organised and ran 2 very well subscribed community St Johns courses in the club, organised boardgame nights and even ‘Whiskey Yoga’ sessions! She regularly runs the Thursday Club Night, drives our 3 Womens Interclub teams, and can be found on court almost daily executing her patented drops into the nick. She even enjoys using iSquash !?!
In the short time Penny has been back with us, she has transformed the Womens Club and become a key figure in promoting our sport in the community. Her energy and enthusiasm is clearly evident in the greatly increased social and competitive squash activity in the Club.
Cheers Penny – you deserve your dram!!
THE SQUASH INSTITUTE: A HUGE ADVANCE
The New Zealand Squash Institute (NZSI) was launched in 1990 at Ellerslie Racecourse, a pivotal organisation dedicated to the development and promotion of squash at all levels across the country. The NZSI Te Atatu complex had 12 glass-back courts and focused on providing resources and support for players, coaches, and clubs alike.
The institute offered a range of programmes designed to improve player performance, including specialised training camps, workshops, and access to expert coaching. It aimed to create a structured pathway for emerging talents, ensuring they received the guidance necessary to reach their full potential.
The complex attracted 1000’s of players both domestically and internationally, players would come for the New Zealand Open and then stay for the quality training environment. This complex later became the foundation of the SNZ High-performacne programme eventually moving the National Squash Centre in 2001.
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Romanos
squashlevels
SQUASHLEVELS – BEHIND THE NUMBERS:
KEY SURVEY AND MATCH ANALYSIS INSIGHTS REVEALED
A major focus this season for competitive squash players has been the transition to the SquashLevels grading system, a performance-based model replacing the old ‘reward’ points approach.
SquashLevels adjusts each player’s rating based on how their actual performance compares to expectations. If they play better than expected their level will increase, and if they play worse than expected their level will decrease. If they play relatively as expected their level will stay the same.
PLAYER SURVEY RESULTS
The most common features of the new system disliked by players were,
1. Losing Points Even After Winning
A significant number of players feel demoralised by the system’s design, which allows players to lose Levels even when they win. The emphasis on not just winning but winning decisively can lead to frustration, especially for higher-graded players who face pressure to defeat lower-graded players convincingly. This undermines the enjoyment and sportsmanship aspect of the game.
2. Lack of Transparency and Complexity
The new grading system is seen as overly complicated and lacking in transparency. Players struggle to understand how Levels are calculated and how their rankings are determined. The confusion is compounded by a lack of clear communication about how the system works, leaving many players disengaged and less motivated to participate competitively.
3. Negative Impact on Social and Friendly Play
The system incentivises competitive play over the social and friendly aspects of squash. Higherranked players feel forced to crush lower-graded opponents to maintain their Level, which diminishes the fun and camaraderie traditionally associated with the sport. This shift towards highly competitive play makes it harder for players to enjoy casual or social matches.
In September, a national survey gathered feedback from 1,376 players, providing valuable insights into SquashLevels’ impact. These insights were shared in our recent five-week roadshow, where we engaged clubs in addressing key areas for enhancing player experience.
The most common features of the new system liked by players were,
1. Recognition for Performance, Not Just Wins
Many respondents appreciate that the system rewards effort, even in losses. Players can increase their Level by playing well, even if they lose to a higher-graded opponent. This is seen as a fairer system compared to the previous one, which only accounted for wins and losses, not how well a player performed in individual games or points.
2. Encouragement for Competitive Play
The new system encourages players to give their best effort in every game. Even when behind or expected to lose, players are motivated to push for every point, knowing that a close match or a strong performance can still result in a positive Level change. This is especially valued by lower-graded players playing against higher-graded opponents.
3. Faster Movement in Grades
Respondents appreciate the quicker adjustments to grades, allowing players to reach their true playing level faster than in the previous system. The dynamic nature of the system enables both rising players and those who may have been over-graded to find more appropriate competition more quickly.
4. More Accurate Reflection of Current Ability
Several players feel that the new system more accurately reflects their current playing ability. Unlike the old system, which could leave players stuck in a grade, this system adjusts more fluidly based on recent performances.
Looking at the measurable data from the survey,
• The national self-rated average on understanding of how the new system works was 5.8/10.
• On satisfaction of the new system grading, out of 10 players 4 were satisfied, 4 were unsatisfied, and 2 didn’t care.
• Dissatisfaction directly correlates to playing time, ranging from players with less than a year (20%) to players with 10+ years (52.4%).
• Dissatisfaction directly correlates to age, ranging from 0-18 years (25.1%) to 50+ years (51.4%).
• Higher grades more likely to have strong position, lower grades more indifferent.
Match Analysis
Our analysis of 63,000 matches played across New Zealand from January to August sheds light on player concerns with the new SquashLevels system. In 16% of matches, winners saw their level decrease, generally when they won in four or five games. In 3-0 wins, this rate dropped to below 4%. We also examined mismatches, where one player was twice as strong as their opponent. These made up only 7.6% of all matches, with the higher-level player maintaining or increasing their level in 78% of cases.
Regarding mixed matches (male vs. female), results showed some imbalance noting that in matches with equal levels, males won 67% of the time.
These insights help us understand how SquashLevels impacts player experience and guide potential improvements.
Proposed Solutions
Following the survey and match analysis, we met with SquashLevels to discuss potential solutions, with four key outcomes to focus on in 2025:
1. Enhanced Communication
SNZ and SquashLevels will develop informative posters for every club by early 2025. These will explain how level changes are calculated and provide easy reference tables for players.
2. ‘Fairplay’ Matches
A new feature in MySquash Competitions, launching in January, will allow players in mismatches to agree that the match won’t count for SquashLevels. This option, available under certain conditions, lets players enjoy a competitive match without impacting levels.
3. Reduce Reward for Thrashing Lower-Level Opponents
This summer, SquashLevels will adjust the algorithm to limit rewards for dominant wins over significantly lowerlevel players.
4. Addressing Gender-Level Misalignment
Further research with SquashLevels will investigate level disparities between male and female players to determine if this is a local or global issue, with a review planned for early 2025.
MOST IMPROVED FEMALE
GRACE ROWE / Ohakune
MOST IMPROVED MALE congratulations congratulations
37.5%
CROYDON WILLIAMS / Wanaka
74.4%
Share your club’s uplift journey! Email jamie@squashnz.co.nz
SQUASH COURT GLASS WALLS AT PANMURE SQUASH CLUB
A few questions we asked them about the project:
Reason for getting work done:
The club’s facility was built over 50 years ago, and as a result needed repairs to the building’s structure. The courts (internal wall surface) no longer met the functional requirements for squash. Reasonably new hairline cracks were noticed on the outside front wall on both court 3 and court 4. These cracks were over 2.0m long and were believed to be formed due to several reasons such as ground movement, tree root intrusion, movement of supporting beam under the block wall etc. It was decided that a glass wall would provide a future proofed solution rather than ongoing repairs to cracks.
What you considered when looking at a contractor:
Cost and time frame were the biggest considerations. Choosing someone that has experience and a proven track record with Squash courts is a must. It is important to do your research and remember most funders need at least 3 quotes.
Learnings:
There was an initial adjustment period for players, as the court played slightly different, so communication around this is recommended.
The Glass Wall is easy to clean. The marks from squash balls are significantly less than on plaster or system walls. If required, ball marks can be removed very easily with a sponge and just a bit of water. The glass wall makes a louder sound than the plaster which can be distracting at first if you have not played against glass before, but you get used to it.
There has been no maintenance needed on the wall except for cleaning off scuff marks.
When cleaning, ensure you are not using any abrasive materials that can scratch the surface of the glass.
It gives a more modern feel to the facility and has a tidy appearance, which adds to the participants experience.
Overall:
“Our members love the glass wall”. Some visitors seem to be a little put off by it if they haven’t played against glass before, but they soon adjust. We are happy with the result and feel it has improved the overall appearance of the courts. Not to mention it has resolved the problem with unsightly cracks in the wall.
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
2025 tournament calendar
Date
7th-9th
4th-9th
28th-29th
19-21st
30th-1st
27th-29th
4th-6th
11th-12th
1st-3rd
8th-10th
15th-16th
23rd
10th-14th
national event
New Zealand Junior Open
New Zealand Open
New Zealand Doubles Championship
Oceania Junior Championships
Mitchell Cup & Cousins Shield
North Island Junior Championships
New Zealand Championships X National Graded Champs
South Island Junior Championships
NZS Secondary Schools Nationals
Masters Club Team Championships
NZ Inter-District Team Championships
NZ Racketball Festival
G.J Gardner Homes National Superchamps
B Grade
C Grade
D Grade
E Grade F/J Grade
26th-30th
October
17th-21st
G.J Gardner Homes NZ Junior Age Group & Team Championships
G.J Gardner Homes NZ Masters Individual & Team Championships
event location
Christchurch Squash Club
Isaac Theatre Royal
Hutt City Squash Club
Hamilton Squash & Tennis Club
Hamilton Squash & Tennis Club
Whangarei Squash Club
North Shore Squash Club
Midlands - [TBC]
Hutt City Squash Club
Hutt City Squash Club
SquashGym Palmerston North
TBC
Midlands - TBC
Otago - TBC
Squash City Invercargill
Hawkes Bay Squash Rackets Club
Geyser City Squash Club
Henderson Squash Club
Nelson Squash Club
This is a final draft version of our 2025 national calendar and is subject to minor changes.
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Email tyler@squashnz.co.nz with stories from your club or district to be featured in the next edition of The Boast.
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