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A change in Covid regulations has meant a welcome return to squash for Central Scotland junior squash players.

Following a review of the guidelines, U18s can now train with each other on court, rather than being restricted to solo or family groups and this has come as a huge relief to junior players all across the region who have been desperate to restart their training.

This is a bittersweet moment for the group of talented juniors who were selected to represent Scotland at the Five-nations Internationals which were due to happen in April but were cancelled due to the pandemic.

For Oliver Hunter (Dollar

Academy) and Merryn Penman (Wallace High School) it would have been their first cap.

Oliver was upbeat despite not getting to play.“being selected to play for my country has always been one of my goals,”he said.

“I was delighted when all my hard work was recognised especially as it would be my first time playing for Scotland. When I found out that the Five Nations were not going ahead, it was very frustrating. But looking back, I still have the achievement of being one of the few people in the country selected to compete .

“Even though I didn’t end up playing I have still improved massively over the last year, and am certain I’ll have plenty more opportunities to represent Scotland in the future. It’s all part of my journey.”

For Anna Halliday (Crieff High School) and Kyle Penman (Wallace High School) it was a chance to return to a competition they have both attended in previous years.

Bridge of Allan Sports

Club coach Jane Martin said: “It’s great to have juniors on court again to restart their training.

“All of these players have been working hard off court throughout lockdown to maintain their fitness but nothing compares to being back on court with a racket in your hand”

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