Squash Wales coach Trevor Sturrock has spent the past three years introducing children across Anglesey to squash through Bwyd a Hwyl – Wales’ Food and Fun programme.
The programme provides children with healthy meals, physical activity, education and opportunities to socialise during the school summer holidays. For many of the children Trevor meets, it is also their first experience of squash.
Trevor first became involved after delivering a school coaching session at Ysgol y Tywyn alongside Squash Wales’ Club Engagement Officer Tomos Rosser.
“That was where I met Holly Tate-Jackson, who asked whether I would be interested in taking part in the Bwyd a Hwyl programme,” Trevor explained. “After my first experience a few months later, I just became more involved.”
Giving something back
Trevor initially intended to charge his usual coaching fee for the sessions. However, after learning more about the programme and the circumstances faced by some participating families, he made a different decision.
“After hearing about the challenges facing some of the children and seeing the teachers volunteering to provide three basic meals a day, three days a week, I didn’t feel I could submit an invoice,” he said. “Instead, I donated my fee back to the food programme.”
That generosity has continued, with Trevor volunteering his time and returning year after year.
Making squash fun and accessible
Most of the children attending Trevor’s sessions have never previously seen or played squash. Without a traditional squash court available, he uses portable rebound nets and a range of simple activities to introduce the fundamentals of the sport.
“Once the nets are set up and the children enter the play area, they are immediately intrigued,” he said.
Trevor builds on that curiosity with fun introductory challenges, including balancing a ball on the racket, bouncing it repeatedly and trying to walk while keeping the ball under control.
“It can be absolute bedlam, but I’m not there as a teacher. I try to make it fun and remove any pressure. It doesn’t matter if they drop the ball – the aim is to help them enjoy themselves and feel confident about having a go.”
Trevor describes the rebound nets to the children as “vertical trampolines”. Once they begin hitting against them, small adjustments to their stance and racket grip help them see an immediate improvement.
“The children love the nets,” Trevor said. “Once they get going, they try to complete as many consecutive shots as possible.
“I put them into teams of three or four, using both sides of the nets, and they are always trying to outdo their friends. It could be five repetitions or 171, as three girls managed – their enthusiasm is captivating.”
Teachers are also encouraged to participate, often creating some of the most memorable moments of the day.
“The children love playing against – and sometimes beating – their teachers. That can be the highlight of the session!”
A programme with a wider purpose
Although squash provides plenty of enjoyment, Trevor believes the programme’s greatest importance reaches far beyond sport.
He has been struck by children asking whether he has ever tasted everyday foods such as scrambled eggs, bananas or broccoli – foods some of them may not have experienced without the programme.
“That is what stays with me more than anything,” Trevor reflected. “Bwyd a Hwyl gives children access to nutritious food alongside the opportunity to enjoy themselves, be active and try something new.”
The resilience and enthusiasm of the children have encouraged Trevor to continue volunteering.
“The majority are there to have fun, enjoy themselves and learn something new. I’m not there to judge their clothing, shoes or backgrounds. If I can bring a little laughter and enjoyment into their lives through sport, that makes me feel good.”
Breaking down barriers
Some children have expressed an interest in continuing with squash following the sessions, but Trevor says practical barriers remain.
Transport to the nearest leisure centres can be difficult, while travel costs and limited family awareness of the sport can prevent children from accessing further opportunities.
This demonstrates the value of taking squash directly into schools and communities, allowing children to experience the sport in a familiar and accessible environment.
“Do it”
Trevor’s advice to other coaches or clubs considering supporting a similar community programme is straightforward:
“Do it. It is great fun and demanding – you will certainly get your daily step count in – but you can’t help but enjoy their joy.
“It also adds another string to your coaching bow. It isn’t conventional coaching; you have to think on your feet and adapt – and make sure you have a plentiful supply of balls!”
After three years of delivering the programme, Trevor is already looking forward to returning.
“Roll on next season.”
