Youngsters get taste of squash

Tawa School children are revelling in their latest school sports programme and its success reflects solid community partnerships.

The KiwiSport- funded programme Squash in Schools is being delivered to 313 pupils by Tawa Squash Club under the direction of Squash Wellington.

Senior pupils in Big Nix are guided through various court and playing skills at the club by top New Zealand and Tawa head coach Nick Mita.

In

Small

Nix,

junior pupils’ basic movement patterns are reinforced in simple, fun sessions at school.

They are generally led by squash-playing mums and members from the Tawa Squash community.

Wellington Squash coaching co-ordinator Ellie Davidson says Squash in Schools emphasises and encourages community partnerships.

It aims to grow children’s awareness of the sport through a school-club delivery partnership.

‘‘We aim to involve at least one school with each club in the Wellington area,’’ Ms Davidson said.

The Squash in Schools programme was introduced in the region last year after a $12,000 grant from KiwiSport, through Sport Wellington and 10 primary or intermediate schools are targeted this year.

Tawa School sports coordinator Jason Ward said the programme is similar to having specialised PE teachers and lessons.

For more about KiwiSport go to sportwellington.org.nz/ kiwisport.