Joseph, Khalil to clash for 2018 Commonwealth Games spot
Officials from the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) yesterday, confirmed that the association has organised a ‘playoff’ between national players Nyron Joseph and Jason Ray Khalil to determine who will occupy the final spot on Guyana’s squad to participate in the 2018 Commonwealth Games set for the Gold Coast, in Queensland, Australia from April 4 – 15.
Joseph who recently won the Ansa McAl Lucozade National Open Handicap tournament will take on Khalil on December 29, 2017, in what is anticipated to be an exciting showdown.
The association has confirmed Sunil Seth’s participation, while Guyana’s number one ranked player, Alex Arjoon has opted not to participate in the games due to other commitments, thus, making way for either Joseph or Khalil.
Meanwhile, Joseph, in assessing his chances against Khalil, expressed confidence of booking his ticket to travel Down Under.
“You know, once I train and get my fitness level up, and perfect my shots a bit more with consistency, then I’ll surely come out on top,” the 20-year-old acknowledged.
However, he shied away from looking beyond the possibility of participating in the Commonwealth Games, while expressing a desire to contribute to the development of the sport.
“It’s tough on my end going pro from here in Guyana, but it’s still on my agenda to pursue that dream, but for now I’m sticking around the juniors doing a bit of coaching to build the sport in the country,” Joseph noted.
His love for the sport as measured by his comments regarding his future, seems to indicate a desire to become a coach.
He has already obtained his Level One coaching certificate and is looking to achieve his Level Two certification, for which he will be assessed by his coach, the legendary Carl Ince.
Joseph has won national championships at every level of the juniors, from Under-13 to Under 19. He look to continue their impressive exploits against the bottom of the table the Windward Island also copped three gold medals at Junior CASA, two at the Under-17 level, and one at the Under-15s. Hurricanes when the sides meet at the Guyana National Stadium Providence this week.