Jenn hopes that project is a hit

Hamilton Squash Club will benefit from a new programme aimed at encouraging more women and girls to take up the sport.

Scottish Squash have launched their ground-breaking H//T SQUASH programme, in association with Scottish Women in Sport (SWIS).

It aims to reach a brand new audience across Scotland this year, specifically targeting inactive women and girls, who have never picked up a squash racquet before, and who want to get fit in a safe, fun and social environment.

H//T SQUASH comes off the back of Scottish Squash’s G/RLS DO SQUASH campaign, which was rolled out in 2018.

The programme will be launched across three regions – west, east and the north, encompassing nine member clubs.

H//T SQUASH ACT/VATORS will run classes in these regions, with Level 2 coach Jenn Saldanha taking on four clubs in the west, including Hamilton.

David Fallon, head of development at Scottish Squash, said: “A lot of hard work has gone on behind the scenes to get us into a position to start the programme.

“This opportunity has only been made possible thanks to funding from the Scottish Government’s Women and Girls fund and the support of sportscotland.

“We were successful in securing £24,000 through our joint application with partners SWIS, which allows us to build a workforce to support more women and girls taking up squash. Over the course of six weeks, participants will gradually get fitter whilst also learning about the basic movements and skills involved in the game of squash.

“Even if you are currently inactive you can come along, get fitter and learn the basic skills. By the end of the six weeks it is hoped participants can start their own unique journey in our sport.”

He added: “We are severely underrepresented in terms of girls and women squash participants in Scotland.

“We have looked at reports that say females prefer an easier access into sport through a social environment, with women delivering it. That’s why we have put a lot of effort into developing this unique fitness-based programme that can break down barriers to participation.

“We were delighted that Jenn came forward, she’s fantastic and has the personality and time to deliver this.”

Swis chief executive officer Maureen Mcgonigle commented: “The enthusiasm of individuals working at Scottish Squash to get women involved in their sport is clearly tangible.”