This annual event to promote the game takes place on Saturday 14 October and former world champions Nick Matthew and Laura Massaro are amongst those urging clubs to organise events to attract new players to the sport.
“Any initiative that can help to get people through the door of squash clubs to try squash for the first time has to be supported and World Squash Day is doing this on a global scale, which is great,” added the world No.4.
Massaro, women’s world champion in 2014, added: “I am very passionate about getting more girls and women to play squash and World Squash Day is a fantastic opportunity for people who may never have tried squash to give it a go.
“I hope every squash club out there will be putting on fun activities on the day to get lots of people to discover how great squash is.”
World Squash Day founder Alan Thatcher, a tournament organiser and author from England, is keen to promote the health benefits of playing squash.
“Squash is rated one of the healthiest sports for players of all ages,” said Thatcher on the eve of the 14th staging of World Squash Day. “At a time when many governments are spending a fortune on treating the effects of childhood obesity and a lack of physical activity among middle-aged people, squash can provide the ideal solution.
“Squash burns around 900 calories per hour and the health benefits can last a lifetime for those who continue playing into their 40s, 50s and 60s.
“We have a thriving Masters scene in squash and former world champions like Australia’s Sarah Fitz-Gerald continue to blaze a trail through the age-group competitions.
“Looking at the PSA World Tour, all of the players are remarkable athletes who produce truly dynamic entertainment at the highest level. We are very fortunate to have such outstanding role models in the game. All of them started playing at their local clubs, and this is where we hope to see some creative and fun events to attract new people to the sport on World Squash Day.”
Australian number one Cameron Pilley, who won the World Doubles Championship with Ryan Cuskelly recently, was happy to endorse World Squash Day.
“World Squash Day seems to be getting bigger and better every year and it’s so positive to see clubs all around the world get behind WSD,” said the world No.17 from New South Wales. “I am looking forward to seeing the different and fun ideas clubs come up with this year to promote our great game. See you on court!”
World Squash Day is endorsed by the World Squash Federation and the PSA, and national federations are encouraging clubs to open their doors on this special day to promote the sport.
WSF CEO Andrew Shelley stated: “We celebrate our great sport every day of the year, but the annual ‘Day’ is a great opportunity to draw attention to the health benefits and fun nature of it; to encourage children and adults alike to try it; and to raise money for charities. Do take the opportunity!”
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Wor
No comments:
Post a Comment