Interview with Noah Allnatt, Welsh International Squash Player
1. How old were you when you first started playing squash, and what initially got you into the sport?
Noah: I started playing when I just turned 12, which was around September 2022. I initially began playing after being inspired by Tom Rosser while he was playing the Geoff Thomas memorial tournament. All the great players, it was great. So I decided to start having lessons with Tom every Friday night.
2. From playing at the grassroots level to representing Wales internationally, can you share a bit about that journey? What were some of the key milestones for you?
Noah: Well it began with a simple 1 to 1 a week with Tom, and quickly after the junior club championships began. I had zero expectations. However, I quickly proved myself wrong. I won! It felt pretty good. Soon enough, my dad entered me into the Welsh junior close. With the lack of experience and confidence I found myself feeling very overwhelmed. After playing three games, and being devoured in each of them, I left Cardiff with no hope. I felt embarrassed, I am not completely sure why, maybe because I got smashed, or maybe because I accidentally let go of my racket nearly hitting my opponent on the head due to my sweaty palm. But nevertheless I returned to Swansea feeling terrible and defeated. But soon enough I found myself back on the court. Some other highlights were playing the inter county, watching Swansea A team and playing/watching at the Europeans.
3. You’ve had the chance to represent Wales in the 5 Nations in Cardiff and the European U15 Junior Team Championships in Porto. What were those experiences like? How did they shape you as a player?
Noah: I left the competitions feeling hungry, and slightly dissatisfied with my current standard. But for the most part of these tournaments I felt happy being immersed in the European squash culture. I left Porto wanting to be better, soon after the tournament I found myself on court again.
4. Squash has been confirmed for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. How excited are you about this news, and is competing in the Olympics one of your goals?
Noah: I am very exited for squash to finally take is rightful place in the Olympics. I am very exited to see how much bigger squash is going to be due to the Olympics. If I’m being honest, my current long term goal is to win the West Glamorgan Open A grade. Players like Mathew Benjamin, Ben Hardwidge, Andrew Neil and Dai Howe. But of course I would love to represent Wales in the Olympics.
5. Looking forward, what are your key goals in squash? Are there any specific tournaments or achievements you’re aiming for?
Noah: As I said earlier, I would love to win the West glam open. I would also love to win premier A when I’m older. Maybe its not a achievement, but I would love to successfully dive in a actual match like Steve Callaruso. I know it sounds silly, but I think it is one of the coolest things a squash player can do. Going back to tournaments, the Manchester open seems like a great venue. I would also like to one day hit 20k + squash levels. And finally I would love to play for Swansea in the Bristol league Avon one day.
6. How has the Squash Wales pathway helped you in achieving your success? Can you share how the support, coaching, and competitions have influenced your development?
Noah: Coaches like Richard, Greg, Chris and Sally have really helped me. For example I always find that Richard talking to me before after and during games really helps me. He usually gives me little things to improve on technique wise. Greg also is great to be coached by, his experience and wisdom during squads always helps.
7. What do you enjoy most about squash? Is there a particular aspect of the game or the community that stands out for you?
Noah: I really love watching squash. Whether it is a team match tournament or any old hit. Secondly, I find that playing squash is my favourite thing to do. Nothing for me is more enjoyable. I find the squash community in Wales funny, competitive and mostly friendly
8. How has your club in Swansea supported your journey? Do you have any mentors or coaches who have been particularly influential?
Noah: The club has helped me the most. Whether it is Nigel offering me a drink or talking to me. Justin and me talking about squash. Or when a lot of great players like Cam, Ben, Lewis, Nick, Steve, both Dans, Archie, Luka, Tom, Ian, Alex. And there are many other people as well. In a way I am coached by most members of the club.
9. If you had one wish for your squash career, what would it be?
Noah: My whish would be simple: to be the best player I can be.
10. Finally, do you have any advice for younger players who want to follow in your footsteps and play at an international level?
Noah: If I am being honest, I don’t have any advice; yet. Maybe I will in a year or five, or maybe even 10. In my opinion I need to go through more difficult defeats, more loss and more training until I have a clear answer.
