Training with the stars
An exhibition of squash was hosted at the Kingswood College squash courts on Wednesday as a number of international squash players helped with coaching before a series of exhibition matches.
Organiser of the squash event, Ian Knott Craig said the aim of the event was: “Exposing the community to squash for both development and existing players.”
South African National Squash players Alex Fuller (2015 South African Champion and world number 68), Siyoli Waters (SA number 1 and world number 38), Steve Coppinger (SA number 1 and world number 28) and Shaun le Roux (SA number 2 and world number 70) were the invited guests.
With their busy schedules, in and out the country, playing in international tournaments, it was both an honour and privilege for the boys and girls as they got to train with these athletes.
Knott-Craig said the event also gave up-and-coming players an opportunity to meet South Africa’s international players “who are currently playing on the Professional Squash Association tour overseas”.
Wednesday’s event was a chance for Squash South Africa to see the development of squash in Grahamstown. Squash SA made a sizeable monetary donation for the development of squash at grass roots, during an evening function at the Wyvern.
The event started with a briefing from Ian Knott-Craig, who introduced the national athletes, before a sweat-dripping warm-up by Coppinger. He emphasised the importance of warming up especially when it is cold.
The development group was split into the three courts and various exercises and tricks of the game were taught by the national athletes.
The action at the Kingswood squash courts was an exciting squash exhibition. The courts were occupied with boys and girls who were smashing the ball back and forth. It was a chilly Wednesday morning, nonetheless everyone was ready for a thrilling day of squash. The day also included development of squash players from the local community. The afternoon events included junior and senior school squash players as well as coach’s workshops. The day’s squash ended with challenge matches with the national athletes. Anyone who was feeling lucky could challenge them.
The day was a success, with the players taking with them new skills to put into practise on the courts. It was a great learning experience for all who attended. Knott-Craig, who is doing extraordinary work with the local squash players, ensured that they are developing and improving the quality of squash in Grahamstown.
Having been to the South African Squash coaches workshop in Johannesburg last month Knott-Craig is able to develop their skills to their utmost potential.