Squash Wales regional teams were in action over the weekend competing in the British Intercounties. Stage 1 was taking place in the East Gloucestershire club and Cheltenham Ladies College. Teams competed in the boys under 11’s,15’s,17’s & 19’s categories. Many players were earning their first caps for the regional team. It was particularly pleasing to see the boys u11’s in action for the time at this level since the covid enforced break, pointing to a bright future.
The weekend proved to be highly successful with the boys under 11’s 15’s and 19’s all making it through to the finals in March.
Boys u11 Team containing Jack Baldwin, Jacob Baker, Kayden Roberts and Jacob Green. Came second and progress to the finals
Boys u15 Team containing Aled Davies, Archie Davies Clarke, Reuben Davies, Ethen Willis and Steen Anderson won their group containing Hampshire, Gloucestershire and Cornwell. Earning a place in the finals
Boys u19 Team containing Evan Davies Clarke, Ollie Cann and Jack Cottrell won their group to reach the Finals
Notable performances from the boys u15 & u17 B teams who both came third in their groups and the unluckiest team the boy u17’s who came runners up but unfortunately didn’t progress through the finals. These teams have a chance to go through to the plate competition on the finals weekend. The teams benefited from coach support from Rhys Luffman, Richard Wright, Greg Tippings and Sally Davis. Big thanks to the players and parents who enabled these teams to compete and represent Squash Wales in such a positive manner. These teams along with the girls under 11’s 13’s, 15’s 17’s and 19’s will compete in the finals weekend next March.
Personally, it was so pleasing to see our players competing in a team event together. The team spirit, camaraderie and support from parents was second to none. This event also provides vital competition for our players and lays the ground for full international honours later in the season. Lastly it was such a pleasure seeing our players having such fun competing and the picture above sums it up!!
Well, done all, Greg Tippings Junior National Coach