On Saturday 7th March, Swansea Tennis and Squash Club (STSC) hosted a development event which saw 22 juniors take to the court to experience competitive squash, some for the very first time.
The event began with coaches taking the players on court for a warmup and a series of drills before the players were placed in three grades (A-C) based on ability. Each player competed in 3 matches (best of 3 games, PAR to 11) throughout the day and there was some great squash on display.
With players entering from Swansea, Cardiff, Merthyr and Caernarfon, this event provided a fantastic opportunity for our juniors to compete against a variety of opponents and gain valuable match experience.
The C grade event saw Tiana Anderson (STSC) win a very close contest in the final against Enlli Thorne (Caernarfon). The match went the distance with Enlli taking the first game 11-8 before Tiana showed resilience and took the second and third games 11-8 and 11-4. Brilliant rallies and lots of running, this final really set the bar high! Well done to both players for their efforts.
The B Grade final then saw Enlli’s elder sister, Isla Thorne (Caernarfon), take on Ioan Jones (Merthyr). Ioan took the first game 11–6 before Isla rallied back to claim the second 11–9. With the match finely balanced and both players hitting good length while covering every corner of the court, Ioan managed to emerge victorious 11–8 in the deciding game. Another excellent match from both players.
Finally, after 33 matches had been played across the day, the A Grade final saw a DL Cardiff clash between Ethan Morgan and Sam Thomas. Ethan took control early, claiming the first game before Sam worked tirelessly to move Ethan around the court and level the match in the second. The deciding game was closely contested, with both players taking their opportunities when they came. Towards the end, Ethan showed great composure to secure the win 11–8. It was a fantastic match and a great spectacle for the players, coaches and parents watching courtside.
A big thank you goes to all the players and parents who attended, as well as the volunteers who supported the event throughout the day. Finally, a special thanks to the coaches who helped facilitate the event and ensured competitive squash was delivered in a fun and enjoyable environment.
We are extremely pleased with how our Development Events are being received and welcome any clubs interested in hosting a similar event in the future.
Tom Rosser.
