Squash Stars
WOW what an experience I had at Birmingham 2022. I’d never been to a multi-sport event and to be a part of it has totally blown me away.
I had so much fun, inspiring, and entertaining so many young people, families, and squash fans. I truly hope the work I and the Squash United team, along with my wife AKA Mrs Squash did, and will continue to do, will eventually show in increased participation at clubs and sports centres and most importantly here at WLTSC.
I’ve had many highlights in my career as a player and coach but to get the greatest squash player of all time Jahangir Khan, along with Mohamed El Shorbagy, current World No.5, former World No.1 and World Champion on the Mini Squash Court was such a special moment and one I will never forget.
Gina Kennedy, the first English woman to win a Commonwealth Games Singles Gold Medal, also joined me on the Mini Squash Court to play the squash fans (along with her gold medal). Almost the whole England team joined me on the Mini Court as well as competitors from many of the nations, which was brilliant for all the fans.
It was so wonderful to see Declan James, who came to support the Birmingham 2022 Roadshow here at WLTSC, win a Commonwealth Games Men’s Doubles Gold Medal. I was so delighted for him but also for the whole of England Squash Team, winning 6 medals overall.
I’ve had the privilege to coach almost every player on this team, at Junior National Squads when I was an England High Performance Coach. What made it even more special, a few players now have children, and I had the chance to play them on the Mini Squash Court, I had so much fun.
I’ve always believed the Mini Squash Court would be a success and it truly has been. At the Birmingham 2022 Squash venue, we engaged with over 10,000 fans. As well as the main site, I put up Mini Squash Courts at Birmingham 2022 Regional Festival sites in Castle Vale, Yardley, and Ward End, where my team of volunteers and coaches delivered squash to hundreds of people each day.
On Tuesday the day after Birmingham 2022 officially ended, I put up a Mini Squash Court in an extremely deprived area in Birmingham at a Youth Project in Lozells to give the young people the opportunity to try Squash for the first time. The work I’m doing doesn’t end here, I will continue to champion the game of squash and go out and inspire people of all ages, to take up the game or get them back onto court. I want to continue taking squash to the people and now the real work really begins here at WLTSC.
Squash Stars begins Wednesday 14th September – a 6 week programme for juniors 5-11yrs of age and includes a bag, racket, goggles and T-shirt for total of £42. Non-members welcome.
We will start a beginners #squash & racketball (Squash 57) course from Monday 5th September – see timetable for details or get in touch to find out more or discuss individual coaching opportunities – 01902 755265
I hope to see you at the courts soon
Mike Harris aka Mr Squash!
