Squash club bids goodbye to coach

Oban Squash and Tennis Club said a fond, but a socially distant, farewell recently to a most valued member.

Keith Oversby has been part of the squash club for the past 25 years, first as a talented player and then as resident coach and level two referee, and will be sorely missed by the Atlantis Leisure-based group when he and his wife Tina move to Inverness later this month.

Messages from well-wishers were conveyed to Keith by fellow members with club co-ordinator Jackie Kersley making a distanced presentation.

Speaking on behalf of the club Jackie said: ‘Many of our ladies and gents have benefitted greatly from Keith’s knowledge of the game and his coaching skills. He has been an integral part in bringing on the standard of many of the players.

‘We would like to thank Keith for everything he has done for squash in Oban and we wish him and Tina every happiness in their new venture.’

Keith told The Oban Times

Keith Oversby is stepping down from his role as coach after 25 years’ service to Oban Squash and Tennis Club.

that being part of the club had been a pleasure and that he would take many happy memories with him when he leaves.

‘It has been great fun and really satisfying not only to witness the progress people are making in the sport but to see them enjoying themselves while they are doing it,’ he added.

As well as sharing his squash knowledge, Keith is also renowned for his generosity, donating all the fees he made from coaching back to the club and Atlantis Leisure.

Atlantis Leisure general manager Nick Wesley added: ‘We will be very sad to see Keith leave Atlantis Leisure’s volunteer coaching team.

‘Keith has been an asset to the Squash and Tennis Club over the years.

‘He has progressed his coaching and referee qualifications and always looks to raise the standards of the coaching programme.

‘We are very grateful for all he has given to the club and the centre and wish him all the very best for the future.’

Keith will continue to coach and referee at his new home and hopes to come back when the long awaited PSA Satellite comes to Oban.