England Squash News

England Squash Celebrates Century With New Mini Squash Centre In Stoke

Just 21 months after launching the England Squash initiative on BBC TV's "Blue Peter", leading squash player Peter Nicol is helping to unveil the 100th Mini Squash Approved Centre at Brough Park Leisure Centre in Stoke on Trent today (Tuesday 14 June).

It was in September 2003 that Nicol, who last year celebrated his 60th month as world number one, introduced Mini Squash on a portable court at the Blue Peter studios in London - a sensational launch for the junior version of the sport which led to hundreds of youngsters all over the country picking up rackets and trying squash for the first time.

Huncote Leisure Centre in Leicestershire became the first Mini Squash Approved Centre.  With a pool of qualified coaches, the centre launched playing and competitive programmes across all ability levels and established links with local schools ensuring that opportunities were made available for as many children as possible to learn about squash.

The programme at Brough Park, which boasts three glass-backed courts, will kick off at 4.00pm with a Mini Squash FUNdation for 6-8 year-olds.  Later there will be Mini Squash Improver/Pro sessions for 9-11 year-olds, followed by presentations of Certificates and Development Awards.  All the sessions will be hosted by Peter Nicol, with England Squash Area Manager Tom Duggan and Staffordshire Squash Development Officer Cliff Martin.

"This initiative provides a comprehensive introduction to the game for young players aged 5-11 years which includes a wide range of games and activities enabling youngsters to learn to play without the need of a traditional squash court," explained Adrian Christy, Director of Development & Competitions for England Squash.

"Included in the programme is an Awards Scheme that rewards players as they progress through the various stages of learning - with player passports issued so that kids can keep a record of their own achievements.

"Unsquashable Mini Squash is colourful, vibrant and GREAT FUN and gives the traditional sport of squash a new direction.

"Peter Nicol is an outstanding ambassador for squash and a tremendous advocate of Mini Squash.  We are most grateful that he has been able to find time in his busy schedule to help us launch this historic milestone," added Christy.

More then 10,000 youngsters have already participated in the Unsquashable Mini Squash scheme, being introduced to squash through the mini version of the game:  Young players who have not only been introduced to a sport which is great fun but one that offers them a healthy lifestyle.

Mini Squash is available in clubs and sports centres all over the country.  For details of other Mini Squash Approved Centre, log onto www.minisquash.com