New-look courts ready for state event

The hosting of a major Victorian tournament has provided the catalyst for Horsham Squash Club to upgrade its courts.

The courts have been painted and floors sanded and lined in preparation for the Victorian Masters Squash Association tournament next month.

Club president Chris Warrick said his committee had been considering upgrading the courts for a while.

“We had been delaying a decision mainly because we were waiting to see what was happening with the proposed indoor sports stadium,” he said. “When we learned we had secured the masters tournament, we decided to proceed with the upgrade regardless of the stadium outcome.

“It means that all six courts will be in excellent condition and that will only help attract the best players to Horsham.”

Mr Warrick said it was the first time the courts had been refurbished by a company dealing exclusively with squash courts.

“The company we used is owned and managed by five-time world champion Sarah Fitzgerald and her husband Cam,” he said.

“They used all the right materials to ensure the best playing surface possible and we are very happy with the finished product.”

Mr Warrick said club members were planning working bees to get the squash centre in top shape for the tournament.

“We want to host the tournament for at least two years, so the better we can present it, the more likely that can be.”

Horsham will host the Victorian Masters Squash Association tournament from February 16 to 18. Players can enter online at www. vmsasquash.com.au.