Burton’s longstanding tennis and squash club is hoping to encourage more people to enjoy racket sports after figures reveal the number of squash players in England is dwindling.
Despite the medal-topping success of England’s squash team at the Commonwealth Games, as the country became one of the most successful nations since the game was introduced, figures from Sport England show numbers of people joining the sport are now dropping.
It is a trend that Burton Tennis and Squash Club, based in Ashby Road, is hoping to reverse as they open their doors on Saturday 24th September to give more people the chance to trial the health-boosting sport.
Shaun Baxter, Chairman of Burton Tennis and Squash Club, said the club, which is celebrating its 100th year in the town, wanted to reignite passion for the game by opening their doors to offer free support and coaching for those looking to find out more about the sport, voted by Forbes as the healthiest in the world.
He said: “Squash is a game that can be played at any age or ability. It is one of the reasons it has been so popular in England.
“However, unfortunately, numbers are falling as COVID saw courts temporarily close with players finding alternative sports. Squash also doesn’t always get as much promotion as other national games such as football or rugby.
“We want to change that trend and see more people realise not only the health benefits but also the social and fun side of playing the game.”
Burton Tennis and Squash Club has over 250 members and supports beginners as well as county players who train at the facilities with internal squash leagues and tournaments.
Shaun added: “It is crucial if we are to continue to see the sport thrive in this country that we nurture and grow the talent we have here in the Midlands and encourage more people to get involved.
“Whether you are looking to play competitively or socially, squash is a fantastic sport and a very enjoyable way of building strength, stamina and cardio fitness.”
Squash is a racket sport widely believed to have originated in England in the 1800s. It is played in an enclosed room with players alternately hitting a hollow rubber ball across the four-walled court.
In 1998, squash was introduced to the Commonwealth Games and, since then, England has won 38 of the 100 medals. This year, there were more wins for Team England with Georgina Kennedy getting gold for the women’s singles and an all-English men’s double final, making England one of the most successful nations since the sport was introduced.
Burton Tennis and Squash Club is holding an open day on Saturday 24th September from 12.30pm till 6pm. Anyone can attend, and open day guests can claim three months free membership to trial the sport as well as the added benefits of coaching and support to get back on court if needed.
The club is affiliated with England Squash and has 4 squash courts, including a glass-backed show court, four tennis courts, sauna and shower facilities as well as an award-winning licenced bar with social events.
More information is available at www.burton-tsc.co.uk/openday
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