On Saturday October 3rd, Henley and Hithercroft Squash Clubs joined forces to give local families the chance to try squash for free at a special Family Squash Day, supported by a grant from South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC).
The event, held at Wallingford Sports Park, welcomed children aged 7–18 and their parents to get on court and discover what makes squash such a fun and energetic sport.
Qualified coaches, Jason Varrie, Adam Edge, James Hicks and Paul Ski were on hand throughout the afternoon to introduce newcomers to the basics of the game, with activities designed to make it enjoyable for players of all abilities – including those picking up a squash racket for the first time.
The day was primarily an opportunity to have fun, meet other young players and experience squash in a friendly environment, with all juniors receiving a participation medal.
The event was organised jointly by Henley Squash Club and Hithercroft Squash Club, with financial support from an SODC grant helping the clubs to provide the session free of charge.
Both clubs are keen to use initiatives such as this to encourage more young people and families to discover squash and to demonstrate that the sport is accessible to everyone, whatever their previous experience.
Jason Varrie, (Oxfordshire Squash County Coach) said “We wanted to give local families the opportunity to come along, pick up a racket and simply have a go. Squash is a fantastic sport – it is great exercise, develops coordination and fitness, and above all it is great fun. The support from SODC has helped us remove the cost barrier and introduce the sport to families who might otherwise never have considered trying it. We hope that some of those taking part will be inspired to continue playing.”
Paul Ski (HenleyJunior Squash Coach) stated that it had been a fun afternoon for not only some of Henley’s regular juniors but also several parents and juniors who were new to the game. Adam Edge and I run FREE junior squash sessions on Sunday mornings at Gillotts sports centre in Henley. We welcome any juniors interested in having fun learning to play squash.”
The clubs would like to thank South Oxfordshire District Council for its support and everyone who came along and made the Family Squash Day a success.
Coaches Adam Edge, Paul Ski and Jason Varrie at the end of family day
Junior players on court with Paul Ski and Adam Edge