DREAMS TURN TO 2022 GAMES
Perthshire squash pair join training camp as the hard work begins
The journey to Birmingham 2022 is under way for Scotland’s top squash players.
And Perthshire talents Rory Stewart and Katriona Allen were both involved in a bio-secure doubles training camp before Christmas.
Doubles is set to be a major focus over the next 18 months as Team Scotland aim to medal in squash at the next Commonwealth Games.
Last week, the Games selection criteria for squash was finalised, which Scottish Squash head coach Paul Bell hopes will focus the minds of his squad on the road to Birmingham.
“The Commonwealth Games is the pinnacle of the sport for our players, the only multi-sport event that they are involved in,” he said.
“The doubles camp has got Birmingham on its radar and confirmation of the selection criteria added motivation to training.
“Players have been fortunate enough to train during this period with the focus being on singles.
“This camp allowed us to freshen things up and set in motion plans for Birmingham.
“It was a good thing for the players to do at the end of the year and they worked hard.”
Allen, who competed across the globe last year, had moved up to a careerhigh world ranking and is targeting a further rise.
And Stewart, from Crieff, is keen to build on recent Professional Squash Association success – which included a victory in Argentina.
“Although Birmingham 2022 isn’t too far away, we’re not setting our sights on any specific pairings at the moment,” said head coach Bell.
“A lot can change in 18 months so it’s about trying out different partnerships in mixed, men’s and women’s and keeping our options open.
“We have a fine group of doubles players and some strong potential partnerships who can give us the best chance of a medal.”
The latest training camp took place at Scotstoun in Glasgow.
“Being able train and get together for camps such as this during the pandemic I feel can be hugely important for our squad psychologically,” Bell continued.
“All of our performance players have got exemptions for training and travel which enables them to train together and help sustain their career and livelihoods.”
High hopes Scottish Squash head coach Paul Bell with Crieff’s Rory Stewart