Julian Illingworth, the world No30 from New York who has become the USA's highest-ranked player on the Professional Squash Association World Tour, has been elected onto the PSA Board.
The 25-year-old Yale graduate succeeds Englishman Mark Chaloner, a former world No7 who has retired from the board after periods as both Chairman and President.
"I am delighted to announce Julian’s appointment onto the board, during a very positive and productive AGM," said Chairman Ziad Al-Turki. "Julian has obviously earned a great deal of respect from his fellow professionals. He will bring to the board many new fresh ideas and, as he is based full time in the US, will be a valuable asset to the PSA in what is one of our key markets."
In recognising Chaloner's contribution to the PSA, Al-Turki added: "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Chaloner for his service to the PSA. Mark was a fantastic squash player who set himself the highest standards in professionalism and, once his playing career came to end, he continued to dedicate himself to the PSA giving them same high standards.
"Since 2002 his contribution to our game cannot be underestimated: his ideas, work ethic and passion for squash made him a valuable asset to the PSA board and I'm sure he will remain a close friend of the PSA for many years to come. I wish all the very best for the future."
Illingworth relishes his new role with the players' association: "I am honoured to be elected to the board of the PSA. I hope to bring a fresh view to the table and hope we can continue to move in the right direction for our tour. I am especially interested in increasing communication between the Board and the PSA members, and believe that by getting more people involved we can bring the most out of our association."