More than 50 junior players arrived at Newport Squash Club for the South Wales Junior Open, one of the key selection events for juniors aiming to represent their region and Wales during the upcoming season.
Returning to Newport—a club with a proud tradition of producing both junior and senior internationals—was a real highlight. The venue provided an excellent backdrop for what proved to be a weekend full of competitive and respectful squash.
Outstanding Play and Exemplary Conduct
Across all age groups, players showcased an impressive standard of squash. What stood out even more was the outstanding sportsmanship on display. With national selection at stake, matches were fiercely contested, yet players consistently demonstrated fairness, respect, and a commitment to playing the ball and allowing access.
This positive approach made for smooth officiating and contributed to a friendly, professional atmosphere throughout the event.
Event Winners and Notable Performances
The tournament delivered exciting finals and strong performances in every category:
Mixed U10: Merthyr’s Manny Taylor claimed the title, with Clara Martin (Cowbridge) taking runner-up.
Boys U11: Newport junior Gwilym Drew secured a hard-fought 3/1 win over Efan Davies (Merthyr).
Girls U13: Newport’s Elsie Griffiths overcame Merthyr’s Poppy Lancaster to win the category.
Boys U13: Merthyr’s Kayden Roberts took the title against Joseph Breach in a strong final.
Girls U15: Grace Breach earned the title after a competitive match with Heidi Hales (Bridgend).
Boys U15: In one of the standout matches of the weekend, Salah Farag (Wrexham) edged out Lenny Lewis (Merthyr).
Girls U17: Madalena (Llantrisant) put in a confident performance to defeat Eliza Hales (Bridgend).
Boys U17: Hugh Padayachy won an epic five-set battle against Ethan Willis (Wrexham).
Girls U19: Millie Breach was tested throughout by Eliza and Madalena but showed her class to secure the title.
Boys U19: In another superb final, Archie Davies-Clarke (David Lloyd Cardiff) defeated Declan Cottrell (Rhiwbina) in four competitive games.
Top 4 Final Placings
Mixed U10
Manny Taylor
Clara Martin
Owain Drew
Louie Tippings
Boys U11
Gwilym Drew
Efan Davies
Anders James-Martin
William Ludman
Boys U13
Kayden Roberts
Joseph Breach
Owain Howe
Reuben Brooks
Boys U15
Salah Farrag
Lenny Lewis
Mashhour Gadallah
Harry William Thomas
Boys U17
Hugh Padayachy
Ethan Willis
Gethin Poole
Thomas Fenlon
Boys U19
Archie Davies-Clarke
Declan Cottrell
Aled Davies
Daniel Evans
Thanks and Acknowledgements
Squash Wales extends a huge thank you to Newport Squash Club for hosting, to Russell and Greg for organising and managing the event, to all players, parents, and supporters who contributed to such a positive and successful weekend of squash and the National Lottery via Sport Wales for their ongoing funding.
