Tez is one of the most exciting and likable players on the PSA world tour, winning the British National’s title and Bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games last season. I’ve known Tez since she was about 8 years old, and even used to do a bit of coaching with her on Saturday mornings at St Mellons Country Club in Cardiff, where her Dad was in Charge, prior to moving to North Wales. Tez is a big advocate of growing the game at grassroots level, support the Wales Junior Squash programme and also other junior programmes around the UK. Tez also recently established and promoted her very own PSA tournament, The Karakal Bangor Classic, where she managed to put together a strong lineup of up and
This week's profile is on Peter O'Hara. Although not a current pro, Peter is a multiple Scottish National Champ, ex Scotland No 3 and hero firefighter. In fact, Peter actually compiled his profile for me whilst on a break from putting out a level 2 grass fire. #WhatAGuy For those who don't know Peter, he has more sponsors than a formula 1 car, including my own sponsor, Eye Rackets, and is a big promoter of junior squash and trying to make squash accessible and appealing to all, especially in underrepresented communities. Peter is a family man and a straight talker, not afraid to speak his mind! Name: Peter O'Hara Highest ranking: Ex Scotland No 3, 2 X British O40's Champ and 7 x Scotland age
This week I'm incredibly lucky to have chatted to Paul Coll, who took time out of his busy schedule to provide me with some great info. Superman has rocketed up the rankings over the last couple of years, regularly occupying the top 10 in the PSA world rankings. Known for being one of the toughest trainers off court, he's taken speed, strength and athleticism to a whole new level. When he steps on court, you know you're in for a hard night! Check out Paul's squash heroes too. I've been chopped by one of them and been scared senseless by the other ;-) Name: Paul Coll Highest World Ranking: No 8 Biggest Achievements: Commonwealth games silver medal Coach: Tommy Berden Racket Sponsor: Eye Racke
In the first of a series of interviews with professional players, I am delighted to share the profile of Mike Harris. Mike is a teammate of mine (though considerably better than me) and full time Squash & Racketball Professional at Exeter Golf & Country Club, Devon. I also string Mike's rackets for him! Mike has built a strong reputation as a Coach, helping to rapidly grow the junior, senior and women's game in the South West, whilst still managing several strong PSA performances, when time allows. Mike is the reigning National Racketball Champ having successfully defended his title this weekend! Name Mike Harris Highest World Ranking 115 Biggest Achievements Finalist of the Jersey Classic a
On 2nd July, after stringing for a few years, I finally had the opportunity to formalise my experience by sitting practical and written exams with the aim of becoming an ERSA Master Professional Stringer. Following a number of conversations, meetings at tournaments and a course with my stringing mentor, Nick Down, universally accepted as THE man for stringing squash rackets, I am happy to say that I passed - apparently, I’m the first person in the world to have gained the new ERSA Master Pro qualification, which is pretty cool! The practical test included stringing rackets (including irregular patterns), removal and replacement of full grommet/bumper sets and building up racket handles with
