<![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy

<![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy - Blog]]>Fri, 08 May 2026 11:40:06 +1000Weebly<![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy Ranked #18 in Top 30 Squash Blogs Worldwide (2026)]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 02:20:16 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/east-coast-squash-academy-ranked-18-in-top-30-squash-blogs-worldwide-2026East Coast Squash Academy has been officially ranked #18 in the world in the Top 30 Squash Blogs on the web for 2026, a global recognition that highlights the Academy’s growing authority and influence within the sport.

Positioned ahead of internationally recognised platforms such as PSA Squash (#22) and Squash Levels (#27), this achievement reinforces the Academy’s credibility not only as a player development program — but as a trusted voice shaping the conversation around modern squash.

Announced as part of the Top 30 Squash Blogs (2026 Edition), the rankings are curated based on multiple performance indicators including content relevancy, subject expertise, posting consistency, and freshness — with the highest-ranked blogs reflecting the leading and most valuable contributions to the global squash community.

View the full list here:
Top 30 Squash Blogs on the Web (2026 Edition)
https://bloggers.feedspot.com/squash_blogs/

Extending Influence Beyond Borders
At the core of this recognition is the Academy’s ability to translate high-performance coaching into content that resonates far beyond its home base in Sydney.

Through its blog, The East Coast Squash Academy has built a platform that reaches players, coaches, and squash communities internationally — sharing insights that are both practical and applicable across different levels of the game.

Built on Deliberate Practice Principles, the content provides a structured lens into what drives improvement — creating alignment between local coaching environments and global performance standards.

Building A High-Performance Ecosystem
This recognition sits alongside the continued growth of The East Coast Squash Academy as one of Australia’s leading and award-winning squash programs. Recent wins include Aaron Frankcomb, who was named the 2026 Keith Walker Coach of the Year, while Jackson Wylie was the recipient of the 2026 Chris Robertson Junior Player of the Year Award (Male).
The blog plays a critical role in that ecosystem:

Translating elite coaching principles into accessible insights

Showcasing repeatable systems for player development

Connecting local success with global best practice principles

Contributing to a shared understanding of high-performance squash

This recognition validates the Academy’s ability to communicate complex performance concepts in a clear, practical way, while consistently delivering value to players and the wider squash community.

A Clear Signal For Aspiring Players
For players serious about improving and progressing within the sport, this ranking
reflects a program that is not only producing results locally, but actively contributing to the global squash ecosystem  by openly sharing the frameworks behind them — creating clarity, direction, and long-term development.

As the Academy continues to grow, the focus remains unchanged:

To develop better players, build stronger systems, and contribute meaningfully to the local and global squash communities

About The East Coast Squash Academy
The East Coast Squash Academy was founded in 2013 when Aaron Frankcomb retired from the Professional Squash Tour, with a vision to expand the presence of squash across the Greater Sydney area while delivering a structured, high-performance development pathway.

Since its inception, the Academy has achieved significant results, including attracting junior players with aspirations of progressing to the professional (PSA) tour. Its junior program has consistently held one of the largest contingents of players on the NSW Squash Junior ranking list, with representation across NSW junior state teams, Australian junior teams, and senior national pathways.

The Academy has developed multiple NSW and Australian Junior Champions, and at its peak engaged over 500 children in weekly squads and training programs. Participation and memberships have grown substantially, with tournament engagement reaching record levels.

It has also supported eight full-time senior players who achieved career-high rankings inside the top 60 on the Men’s PSA Tour, while its leading female professional reached a world ranking of 106.

Through delivering over 100 hours of weekly programming, the Academy has played a key role in increasing court utilisation and supporting the growth of squash centres across Greater Sydney, including Energize Health and Fitness, Norths Fitness, Sydney CBD Squash Club, Elanora Squash & Fitness, Sydney Uni Sports & Fitness, and the University of New South Wales.

Contact Details:
Tel: 02 9957 5105
Website: www.EastCoastSquashAcademy.com.au
Facebook: East Coast Squash Academy
]]><![CDATA[Jackson Wylie Awarded 2026 Chris Robertson Junior Player of the Year]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 02:08:38 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/jackson-wylie-awarded-2026-chris-robertson-junior-player-of-the-yearSquash Australia has named Jackson Wylie the recipient of the 2026 Chris Robertson Junior Player of the Year Award (Male), recognising a year defined by sustained excellence, competitive maturity, and consistent high-level performance across Australia’s junior squash circuit.

Presented as part of the national 2026 awards, this honour marks not only a standout season, but the emergence of a player capable of competing — and succeeding— against the strongest juniors in the country.

This national recognition highlights the strength of The East Coast Squash Academy’s emerging junior talent and reinforces the effectiveness of structured, high-performance development pathways in shaping athletes capable of long-term success.

The announcement also coincides with a major milestone for his coach, Aaron Frankcomb, who was named the 2026 Keith Walker Coach of the Year — further reinforcing the calibre of the development environment supporting Wylie’s progression.

Consistency at a High Level
Wylie’s achievement represents more than individual success — it reflects the emergence of a new generation of high-performance athletes within Australia’s squash system. His performances across national competitions have demonstrated not only technical excellence, but a level of composure and maturity rarely seen at the junior level.

While many junior athletes display talent, fewer demonstrate the level of ownership required to convert that potential into consistent results. Wylie’s approach has been defined by a disciplined engagement with the training process — applying feedback, maintaining focus, and remaining accountable to long-term development goals.

Rather than relying on isolated moments of brilliance, his performances are built on repeatable habits: deliberate practice principles, structured preparation and the ability to remain composed through extended, physically demanding matches.

Skill Development Within a Proven System
A significant factor in Wylie’s progression has been his training environment at The East Coast Squash Academy. Under the guidance of former World #38, Aaron Frankcomb, development has been approached as a long-term process, where technical skill, physical conditioning, tactical understanding within strategic planning are combined with mental toughness, sports psychology frameworks, rather than treated in isolation.

Aaron Frankcomb reflected on Wylie’s development:

“What clearly stands out with Jackson is his consistency in applying what he’s learning while he’s learning it. That is a high-level skill requiring self-awareness that few possess. On top of that, he shows up every single day to do the (hard) work that needs to be done and has taken full ownership of his development. All of this builds a solid mental and physical foundation to perform under pressure.”

Wylie highlighted the impact of this environment on his development:
“I think the most important factor for any athlete in any sport is the environment around them. For me, I'm very fortunate and lucky to be constantly surrounded by my coach, Aaron, who constantly pushes me to my boundaries to determine what I need to overcome to become a better squash player. When I was younger, I was not what people call ‘talented at squash’. I struggled to compete at a State or National level. That changed when I started getting coached by Aaron, my level grew exponentially. Within 15 months, I finished second at the Australian Junior Championships. His deep knowledge and understanding of the game, with a structured coaching process, is without a doubt amongst the best in the world. That is what has helped me understand the game from a new strategic perspective, not just on court, but with whatever other aspects I want to develop. The key is that he’s always holding me accountable to the bar I need to be training at."

Positioned For The Next Stage
Receiving the Chris Robertson Award represents a significant milestone in Wylie’s career, while also marking a transition point as he begins to look beyond junior competition toward higher levels of the game.

Looking ahead, Wylie remains focused on continued progression:
“This is my last year in Juniors, so the main focus for me in 2026 is to transition to the professional circuit, which means I need to get my ranking high enough to compete in the higher-level professional events.
In anticipation of this, I’ve recently returned from a 4-month training stint in the UK, where I was based in Pontefract, coached by David Campion and James Willstrop and surrounded by some of the best players in the world.
The experience exposed me to a whole new level of training and squash. It made me realise that there's still so much more improvement needed for me to reach my goals. My current main goal is to qualify for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, which will be a massive milestone for me to achieve, and I know it will mean a lot for the people who have been with me on my journey.”

A Reflection Of Collective Investment
While the award recognises individual performance, Wylie’s development reflects the influence of a broader support network — including his coaches, family, and his wider local community.
Reflecting on that support, Wylie added:

“I’ve been very fortunate to have so many amazing people throughout my journey who’ve helped get me to where I am today. Firstly, I want to start by thanking my parents. They’ve sacrificed the past couple years to really support me to get where I am today, and I know I wouldn’t be here without them.

Jackson also highlighted the importance of his training environment and club community:

"I also want to thank everyone at my local club, Elanora Squash & Fitness, which has not only provided and training base where I’m able to keep improving, but also to the members who’ve constantly supported my journey from the beginning to today.

I also want to thank my coaches from my early beginnings, Kathy Doherty, Tim Doherty and Darroll Allart, who inspired me to pursue squash and I know that I would not be here today without their encouragement in those formative early days.”

Wylie also recognised the role of his current coaching environment:

“I also need to thank my current coach Aaron Frankcomb who inspires me to keep pushing myself to not only become the best squash player I can be, but also become a better person. I know I'm going to achieve many great things working with him in the future and I wouldn’t be here today without his help.

Lastly, but importantly, I want to thank my sponsors Tecnifibre and True Protein who continue to support me throughout my journey. Although squash is an individual sport, it requires a whole team for any athlete to achieve their goals. I’m super grateful knowing that I have an amazing team behind me who support my journey."

As one of Australia’s most promising junior athletes, Wylie’s recognition signals both current excellence and future potential for The East Coast Squash Academy — reinforcing the importance of disciplined development, high-performance programs, and a long-term commitment to player improvement and development

About The East Coast Squash Academy
The East Coast Squash Academy was founded in 2013 when Aaron Frankcomb retired from the Professional Squash Tour, with a vision to expand the presence of squash across the Greater Sydney area while delivering a structured, high-performance development pathway.

Since its inception, the Academy has achieved significant results, including attracting junior players with aspirations of progressing to the professional (PSA) tour. Its junior program has consistently held one of the largest contingents of players on the NSW Squash Junior ranking list, with representation across NSW junior state teams, Australian junior teams, and senior national pathways.

The Academy has developed multiple NSW and Australian Junior Champions, and at its peak engaged over 500 children in weekly squads and training programs. Participation and memberships have grown substantially, with tournament engagement reaching record levels.

It has also supported eight full-time senior players who achieved career-high rankings inside the top 60 on the Men’s PSA Tour, while its leading female professional reached a world ranking of 106.

Through delivering over 100 hours of weekly programming, the Academy has played a key role in increasing court utilisation and supporting the growth of squash centres across Greater Sydney, including Energize Health and Fitness, Norths Fitness, Sydney CBD Squash Club, Elanora Squash & Fitness, Sydney Uni Sports & Fitness, and the University of New South Wales.

Contact Details:
Tel: 02 9957 5105
Website: www.EastCoastSquashAcademy.com.au
Facebook: East Coast Squash Academy ]]><![CDATA[Aaron Frankcomb Named The 2026 Keith Walker Australian Squash Coach Of The Year]]>Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:30:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/aaron-frankcomb-named-the-2026-keith-walker-australian-squash-coach-of-the-yearSquash Australia has officially named Aaron Frankcomb the 2026 Squash Coach of the Year, awarding him the prestigious Keith Walker Coach Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to player development and high-performance squash in Australia.

Announced as part of the Squash Australia Awards for 2026, this honour reinforces Frankcomb’s position as one of the most trusted and results-driven squash coaches in Australia.

National recognition cements The East Coast Squash Academy as Sydney’s premier high-performance Academy

The announcement also celebrated Jackson Wylie’s recent on-court accomplishments, including being named the 2026 Chris Robertson Junior Player of the Year (Male) — a powerful reflection of the strength and consistency of Frankcomb’s coaching system.

A Coaching Philosophy That Produces Results
At the heart of Aaron Frankcomb’s success is his commitment to Deliberate Practice Principles — a structured, high-performance methodology focused on intentional training, feedback loops, and measurable improvement.

Through his leadership at East Coast Squash Academy, Frankcomb has created an environment built on trust, accountability, and long-term athlete development — a combination that continues to deliver national-level results.

Reflecting on the award, Frankcomb was quick to shift the spotlight onto his athletes:

“As a coach, I often tell my students: it’s not me that makes you great—it’s your willingness to listen, trust the advice, and do the work.”

He added:

“I’m confident in my coaching and the strategies I teach, but the results come from the players themselves—their physical, mental, technical, and strategic commitment.”

From World-Class Player to Elite Coach
Before becoming one of Australia’s leading coaches, Frankcomb built an elite playing career:

Top 100 in the world for 8 years, including top 50 for 4 years
Winner of 4 PSA titles
Represented Australia at the 2010 Commonwealth Games
Multiple-time Australian Junior Champion

Now, he channels that experience into building the next generation of athletes — guiding juniors and emerging players through structured development pathways from grassroots to elite competition.

Building Champions — At Scale
Under Frankcomb’s leadership, the East Coast Squash Academy has become a powerhouse of junior development:

Over 25 Australian Junior Champions developed
Strong representation across NSW and Australian teams
Proven pathways into professional squash (PSA Tour)
More than 500 weekly junior participants

Frankcomb highlighted the current wave of talent coming through the system:
“I have a strong group of junior players right now—talented, dedicated, and committed in a way I haven’t seen in the 13 years I’ve coached in Australia.”

“Watching them step up and commit at this level has been incredibly rewarding.”

A Community-Driven High-Performance Ecosystem
While the award recognises individual excellence, Frankcomb emphasised the broader community behind the success:

“The Academy has built a strong program… which shows proven success.”
“A sincere thank you to our team and everyone who supports us—without you, none of this would be possible.”

He also acknowledged the personal support system that underpins his coaching journey:
“A MASSIVE thank you to my beautiful wife and two girls… who have been so patient with me, to support me to achieve my dreams.”

“Also a huge shout out to my business mentor and resident applied sports psychology and peak performance specialist – Dr Marc Dussault, who has been instrumental in formalising our collaborative Deliberate Practice Principles and recently extending them to high-performance table tennis coaching.”

“This is an opportune time to also acknowledge the person who was instrumental in my early days as a junior with all the enthusiasm a kid could have, Reto Vogel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the catalyst to this incredible journey I’ve been on and will continue to discover.”

This combination of elite coaching, family support, and a committed player base has created one of the most effective squash development environments in Australia.

A Clear Choice for Aspiring Players and Families

For parents and players across Greater Sydney seeking a proven pathway to excellence, Aaron Frankcomb’s national recognition provides a clear and credible signal.

His ability to integrate professional playing experience with evidence-based training systems and scalable development frameworks makes him a standout leader in Australian squash.
As Frankcomb puts it:

“I’m grateful to have come from being a professional player… to now giving back to the sport and helping the next generation reach their ultimate potential. I hope to see you on court soon.”

“If you’re a parent with kids who want to learn to play squash, I’d be honoured to have them join our Junior Development Pathway Program.”

About The East Coast Squash Academy
The East Coast Squash Academy was founded in 2013 when Aaron Frankcomb retired from the Professional Squash Tour. The East Coast Squash Academy set out to create a business model to expand the presence of squash within the Greater Sydney area squash centres.

Since inception, the Academy has produced some stellar results including: Attracting a handful of junior players with aspirations of going on the professional (PSA) tour.

Its junior program had the biggest contingent of players on the NSW Squash Junior ranking list, with players on the NSW junior state teams, Australian junior teams, and Australian senior players. The Academy has developed several NSW and Australian Junior Champions. At its peak, the junior squash program boasted (pun intended!) over 500 children participating in weekly squads and training sessions. Memberships and participation in squads increased by 100% and 300% respectively and tournament registrations reached at an all-time high.

The Academy has been the home base to eight full time senior players who reached career highs of top 60 in the world on the Men’s PSA Tour. Its best female professional reached a top world ranking of 106.
The Academy created great success building over 100 hours of services per week to grow the court utilisation and increase profits for clubs around the Greater Sydney Area. Since 2016, Energize Health and Fitness, Norths Fitness, Sydney CBD Squash Club, Elanora Squash & Fitness, Sydney Uni Sports & Fitness & University of New South Wales.

Contact details: Tel: 02 9957 5105
Website: www.EastCoastSquashAcademy.com.au
Facebook: East Coast Squash Academy
Aaron Frankcomb

Aaron Frankcomb was ranked in the top 100 professional squash players for 8 years, and for 4 of those years he was in the top 50, winning 4 PSA titles. He represented Australia at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, was a Junior Champion in all age groups including 2 times in the Under 19 category and holder of scholarships in the Tasmanian and Australian Institutes of Sport. He now coaches professionally and remains Sydney’s top ranked squash player and is still considered within the top 10 players in Australia and was named the 2026 Squash Coach of the Year by Squash Australia, awarding him the prestigious Keith Walker Coach Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to player development and high-performance squash in Australia.]]><![CDATA[Elanora Squash's Path to LA28 - Be Part of the Journey]]>Fri, 16 May 2025 02:31:48 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/elanora-squash-path-to-la28Squash’s Olympic Debut – An exciting, new era for squash

The countdown is on!

Squash is set to make its long-awaited debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, marking a historic milestone for the sport.

For decades, squash enthusiasts around the world have dreamed of this moment—a chance to showcase the game’s speed, skill, and intensity on the global stage. While only a select few will compete for Olympic gold, the journey to LA28 is one we can all share.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a social player, or a passionate fan, you can be fully vested as a squash fanatic. And there’s no better place to join this movement than at Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre, the Northern Beaches’ premier squash destination.

Elanora – A Hub for Squash Excellence

At the heart of the East Coast Squash Academy, Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre has become a beacon for squash players of all ages and abilities. Over the past year, we’ve made significant improvements to ensure that our facility is not just a place to play, but a community hub where the sport can thrive.

World-Class Facilities

Upgraded Courts: We’ve restored Court 6, upgraded lighting, and completed repairs across all courts to provide the best playing experience possible.
Enhanced Comfort: New fans, improved cleanliness, and thoughtful touches like bag storage and water bubblers make every visit more enjoyable.
Multi-Sport Options: In addition to squash, we’ve introduced activities like pickleball and table tennis, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Programs for Every Player

Social and Competitive Play: From weekly box competitions to advanced round-robin events, we’ve created opportunities for players of all levels to connect and compete.
Junior Development: Our school holiday camps and junior programs are inspiring the next generation of squash players, ensuring the sport’s future is bright.
Coaching Excellence: With experts like Aaron Frankcomb and Pushppa Devi, our coaching team is second to none. Whether you’re refining your skills or starting from scratch, you’ll receive world-class guidance.

The Road to LA28 – How Elanora is Leading the Charge

The inclusion of squash in the Olympics is more than just a milestone—it’s a call to action for the global squash community. At Elanora, we’re proud to be part of this movement, fostering a love for the game and creating opportunities for players to grow.

Inspiring the Next Generation

With squash set to take the Olympic stage, there’s never been a better time to introduce young players to the sport. Our junior programs are designed to teach the fundamentals, build confidence, and instil a lifelong passion for squash.

Who knows?

The next Olympic champion might be training at Elanora right now.

Supporting Every Player’s Journey

You don’t have to be an aspiring Olympian to benefit from the improvements at Elanora. Whether you’re a social player looking for a fun way to stay active or a competitive athlete aiming to sharpen your skills, our programs and facilities are here to support you.

A New Program for Former Players

For those who’ve stepped away from the game, we’re excited to announce a new program designed specifically for former and older players who want to get back on court. Squash is a sport for life, and we’re here to help you rediscover the joy of playing.

More Than Just Squash – A Holistic Experience

While squash is the star of the show, Elanora offers so much more. Our boutique gym and on-site restaurant, The Racquet Club, provide the perfect complements to your squash journey.

Fitness That Fuels Your Game
Our fully equipped gym is designed to help you build the strength, agility, and endurance needed to excel on the court. With extended hour access and a variety of equipment, you can train on your schedule.

A Place to Connect
After a match or workout, unwind at The Racquet Club. With a menu crafted by Chef Morgan, featuring healthy options and indulgent favourites, it’s the perfect spot to refuel and connect with friends and family.

Take the Next StepYou might not be going to the Olympics, but you can still be fully vested as a squash fanatic. Visit Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre today and discover how we’re creating a vibrant, inclusive community for players of all levels. Let’s make history together.

]]><![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy Bronze Junior Tournament 2025 No.1 – A Thrilling Start to the Year!]]>Thu, 06 Feb 2025 09:40:10 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/east-coast-squash-academy-bronze-junior-tournament-2025-no1-a-thrilling-start-to-the-yearThe courts at Willoughby Squash Club were alive with energy on Sunday, February 2nd, as we kicked off our first junior event of the year—the East Coast Squash Academy Bronze Junior Tournament 2025 No.1. With four competitive divisions, the tournament showcased incredible talent, determination, and sportsmanship from our junior players.

Rising Stars Shine on the Court
Academy Senior Coach Mike Dickens was impressed by the level of competition, particularly in the lower divisions, where young players displayed remarkable skill and potential. "It is great to see in the lower divisions some excellent talent coming through, and certainly some future stars will develop into the NSW State team for sure," he said. As the NSW Head Coach of the Junior Performance Pathway, he also highlighted the importance of introducing more players to squash at a young age and providing them with opportunities to compete regularly.

A Huge Congratulations to Our Winners!
The tournament delivered thrilling matches across all divisions, with players giving it their all in pursuit of victory. Here are the final results:

Division 1
Oliver Dickens
Ayan Zeeshan
Logan Effendi

Division 2
Hailey Frankcomb
Niah Low Nang
Hannah Frankcomb

Division 3
Joshua Wood
Ayan Bhat
Ruisha Chu

Division 4
Ido Pascal
Matthew Ting
Daniel Han

Looking Ahead
This event marks just the beginning of an exciting year for junior squash at East Coast Squash Academy. We are committed to fostering the next generation of talent and providing young players with the platform to develop their skills, compete, and grow in confidence.

A huge thank you to all the players, parents, and supporters who made this tournament such a success. Stay tuned for more junior events throughout the year, and we look forward to seeing even more rising stars on the court!

Next Tournament Announcement Coming Soon!

]]><![CDATA[Play Squash & Live Longer!]]>Sat, 04 Jan 2025 01:12:50 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/play-squash-live-longerIn the video "Play These Sports & Live Longer!” Dr. Daniel Amen discusses how racquet sports can enhance brain health and contribute to a longer life. These sports improve hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and cardiovascular fitness, all of which are beneficial for cognitive function. (youtube.com)

Squash shares similar characteristics with these racket sports. It demands quick reflexes, sharp hand-eye coordination, and strategic shot placement, and it provides both physical and mental stimulation. Regular participation in squash can lead to improved cardiovascular health, increased agility, and enhanced mental acuity.
Incorporating squash into your fitness routine can be a fun and effective way to boost brain health and overall well-being. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, the fast-paced nature of squash offers a comprehensive workout that challenges both the body and mind.

For those interested in improving their squash skills, here are some recommended training videos:

Squash Tips: Coaching a Beginner - Forehand Technique

Bryan Patterson provides insights into teaching the forehand grip and technique to beginners, essential for building a strong foundation in squash. (youtube.com)

Squash Coaching: Routines and Drills
Paul Carter demonstrates various drills, routines, and conditioned games to enhance your squash performance. (youtube.com)

By engaging in regular squash play and utilising these training resources, you can enjoy the cognitive and physical benefits associated with racket sports, potentially contributing to a longer, healthier life.

]]><![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy Hosts Inaugural School Championships at Willoughby Squash Club]]>Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/east-coast-squash-academy-hosts-inaugural-school-championships-at-willoughby-squash-clubOn October 27th, East Coast Squash Academy had the privilege of hosting its very first School Championships at Willoughby Squash Club. This event marked a significant milestone in our mission to develop young squash talent across the region, offering students a competitive platform to showcase their skills and embrace the spirit of the game.

The championships featured students from three of our partner schools: St. Andrews Cathedral School, Fort St. High School, and Lindfield Learning Village. These schools benefit from East Coast Squash Academy’s in-school squash program, which is delivered by our dedicated team of experienced coaches. The program not only focuses on building fundamental squash skills but also emphasises the importance of competition and the sportsmanship that comes with it. Tournament play is an essential part of our pathway, helping students to refine their techniques and gain valuable experience in a competitive setting.

Students from Fort Street High School participating in the School Championships. Jim Wilson (third from left) was the winner.

The event was filled with thrilling matches, showcasing impressive rallies and remarkable progress from all the players involved. It was clear from the intensity of the matches that the students have been putting in the hard work, and the improvement in their skill levels was on full display. The energy in the club was palpable, with everyone rooting for their peers as they battled it out on court.

Congratulations to the following winners:

St. Andrews Cathedral School
- Senior Champion: Nathan Williamson
- Senior Runner-Up: Kavin Shukla
- Junior Champion: Jamie Tan
- Junior Runner-Up: Douglas Madden

Jamie Tan (on the right) prior to his match against Zack Beck. Jamie was the winner of the Junior Championship for St. Andrews School.

Fort St. High School
- Champion: Jim Wilson
- Runner-Up: Leo Edwards
Lindfield Learning Village
- Senior Champion: Harry Newton
- Senior Runner-Up: Daniel Han
- Junior Champion: Rafael Camarena
- Junior Runner-Up: Lachlan Hobson

A huge congratulations to these talented players, whose dedication to the sport has earned them their well-deserved titles. These championships are not just a celebration of victory, but a testament to the growth of squash in the school community and the ongoing efforts of our coaches, families, and supporters.

Looking to the future, East Coast Squash Academy is excited to expand on this initiative. We’ll be hosting more School Championships and Inter-School Competitions throughout 2025, giving students even more opportunities to develop their skills, compete, and be part of the growing squash community. We can’t wait to see where their squash journey takes them next!

If you would like to know more about our school programs, check out our website for more details!

]]><![CDATA[East Coast Squash Academy celebrates a stellar performance at the Australian Junior Championships 2024]]>Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:50:59 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/east-coast-squash-academy-celebrates-a-stellar-performance-at-the-australian-junior-championships-2024The Academy is thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of our players at the recent Australian Junior Individual and Team Championships held at Thornleigh Squash and Fitness Centre in Sydney, New South Wales from 28th September, 2024 to 4th October, 2024.

The East Coast Academy Squash players with coaches Aaron Frankcomb (first from the left) and Mike Dickens (first from the right)

Our young athletes showcased remarkable talent and determination across various age divisions, with notable individual performances in the Australian Junior Championships including:

U19 Boys
William Slade: 5th Place
Jackson Wylie: 6th Place
James Slade: 8th Place
Marcus Wang: 9th Place

U17 Boys
Daniel Yanez: 11th Place
Oliver Dickens: 17th Place

U17 Girls
Hailey Frankcomb: 13th Place
Ella Mouferridge: 14th Place

U15 Boys
Josh Markham: 3rd Place
Thomas Wang: 5th Place
Kieran Willathgamuwa: 12th Place
Guy Pascal: 17th Place

U15 Girls
Hannah Frankcomb: 8th Place
Niah Low Nang: 10th Place

U13 Boys
Naveen Sanghera: 5th Place
Oscar Dickens: 17th Place
Kavin Shukla: 21st Place

U13 Girls
Elizabeth Wang: 3rd Place

U11 Girls
Samiya Sanghera: 4th Place

Will Slade getting coached by Mike Dickens in between games at the AJC 2024

For more information on the individual championships results, click the link below:
www.squashaus.com.au/games/knockouts/19708

Some of our young players also represented NSW in the Australian Junior Team Championships, continuing their fine form and securing historic results.

The NSW Division 1 team made history by securing 1st place for the first time in over 20 years beating last year's winners, Victoria, by the smallest of margins. While the Division 2 team fought hard to claim 2nd place, just one game shy of the champions, Queensland.

For more information on the team championships results, click the link below:
www.squashaus.com.au/games/knockouts/19708

A huge thank you to the Academy coaching staff, Mike and Aaron, who were instrumental in leading and mentoring our athletes over the two competitions. We appreciate their steadfast dedication to our young athletes' growth and their attempts to help them realise their greatest potential on and off the court.

Our players' achievements and results in individual championships and team events reflect the hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport that The Academy cultivates. We send our warmest congratulations to all participants and express our heartfelt gratitude to parents, guardians, and friends for their support and encouragement.

As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this momentum and continue to develop the next generation of squash champions. Stay tuned for more updates on our players and upcoming events!

For more information about East Coast Academy and our programs, visit our website or contact us today.
www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/

]]><![CDATA[Celebrating Success: Highlights from the 2024 Oceania Junior Championships]]>Sun, 21 Apr 2024 14:09:08 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/celebrating-success-highlights-from-the-2024-oceania-junior-championshipsThe Oceania Junior Championships (OJC) made waves alongside the 2024 Australian Junior Championships, showcasing exceptional talent from budding squash stars. Held at the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre in Victoria from April 12th to 14th, 2024, this event was a testament to dedication, skill, and passion for the game.

The U13 Boys Round of 32 match at the 2024 Australian Junior Open saw Thomas Wang (white and blue shirt) face Nathaniel Middleton (black shirt)

The Academy proudly sent forth 14 junior players to compete in the OJC. Their performances were nothing short of remarkable as they stood out amidst some tough competition.

In a true test of endurance and proficiency, our junior team embraced the challenge of playing 10+/- matches within a span of 7 days. This experience not only revealed their capabilities but also highlighted their readiness for intense gameplay in a compressed timeframe.

A special mention goes to Thomas Wang, who secured the runner-up position in the U13 boys' category, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Additionally, Will, James, Marcus, and Jackson positioned themselves strongly for potential selection in the 2024 Australian Junior Men’s Team for the upcoming World Junior Championships. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed - well done! Fingers crossed for your selection.

Thomas Wang (blue Adidas jacket) receiving the U13 trophy from Anthony Ricketts (in black jacket)

We are incredibly proud of all our Academy players for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship on the court.

See The Academy team’s results below:

U11 Girls:
8th Place: Samiya Sanghera

U13 Girls:
9th Place: Elizabeth Wang
17th Place: Niah Low-Nang

U13 Boys:
2nd Place: Thomas Wang
7th Place: Naveen Sanghera
21st Place: Oscar Dickens
27th Place: Kavin Shukla

U15 Boys:
7th Place: Kieran Willathgamuwa

U17 Boys:
15th Place: Daniel I. Yanez
29th Place: Chase Rogers

U19 Boys:
8th Place: William Slade
13th Place: James Slade
14th Place: Marcus Wang
15th Place: Jackson Wylie

For more results, click here.

Thank you to the Academy coaching team, Mike and Aaron, who played an integral role in guiding and mentoring our players across the 2 events. We are grateful for their unwavering commitment to our junior players' development and their efforts in helping our players reach their full potential on and off the court.

Our sincere thanks to Squash Australia for organising such a successful event, the competitors, coaches, referees, and the host club, Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre. Thank you to our sponsors, City Houses Squash Rackets Association, Sydney CBD Squash Club, and City Tattersalls, for their continued support.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the parents and guardians of our players for their constant support and encouragement throughout the tournament.

The Academy looks forward to continuing to work with our junior players and coaching them to achieve their goals both on and off the squash court. Once again, congratulations to all our players on their incredible achievements. We cannot wait to see what you will accomplish in the future.

]]><![CDATA[Congratulations to The Academy Junior Team on an Outstanding Performance at the Australian Junior Open 2024!]]>Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:09:07 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/congratulations-to-the-academy-junior-team-on-an-outstanding-performance-at-the-australian-junior-open-2024The Academy Junior Team's hard work and dedication paid off at the Australian Junior Open (AJO) 2024, held at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre in Victoria from the 8th to 11th April, 2024. Amongst a vibrant international gathering of junior squash players representing over 15 nations, The Academy players distinguished themselves with exceptional performances across various age categories.

One of the many standouts achieved was the participation of The Academy’s U17 boys, Marcus Wang & Jackson Wylie, who competed in the U19 category, displaying remarkable skills and determination at ages as young as 15 and 16. Their ambition to excel early in their junior careers and potentially represent Australia in the 2024 World Junior Championships (U19 ONLY) hosted in Houston, USA, reflects their commitment and passion for the sport.

We are incredibly proud of all our players for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship on the court.

Congratulations to the following Academy Juniors on their results:

U11 Girls:
9th Place: Samiya Sanghera

U13 Girls:
4th Place: Elizabeth Wang
19th Place: Niah Low-Nang

U13 Boys:
5th Place: Thomas Wang
13th Place: Naveen Sanghera
24th Place: Kavin Shukla
27th Place: Oscar Dickens

U15 Boys:
8th Place: Oliver Dickens
12th Place: Kieran Willathgamuwa

U17 Boys:
14th Place: Daniel I. Yanez
24th Place: Chase Rogers

U19 Boys:
9th Place: William Slade
11th Place: James Slade
13th Place: Marcus Wang
16th Place: Jackson Wylie

For more results, click here.

Our sincere thanks to Squash Australia for organising such a successful event, the competitors, coaches, referees, and the host club, Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre. Thank you to our sponsors, City Houses Squash Rackets Association, Sydney CBD Squash Club, and City Tattersalls, for their continued support.

Stay tuned, as we’ll have the results published shortly for the 2024 Oceania Junior Championships (OJC), which was held in conjunction with the 2024 Australian Junior Open. With regard to the players selected for the 2024 World Junior Men’s Team, selection will be announced towards the end of April as results from both the AJO & OJC are taken into consideration. Once announced, we’ll publish the updates!

]]><![CDATA[The Clash Of Titans 2024]]>Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:59:06 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-clash-of-titans-2024

Victor Crouin (green shirt) and Youssef Soliman (white shirt)

In the heart of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre recently hosted The East Coast Squash Academy’s inaugural Clash Of Titans event that will leave an indelible mark on the local Sydney squash community.

The core mission of this event is to celebrate sportsmanship at the very highest level of technical skill and physical excellence. Victor Crouin and Youssef Soliman were fabulous ambassadors with their humility and approachability. They graced the club with their willingness to engage with fans, players and parents, generously and benevolently sharing valuable insights and their hard-earned wisdom making the day truly special.

The festivities began with a comprehensive coaching clinic attended by a diverse group of players, ranging from teenagers to seasoned veterans. Victor and Youssef's unique perspectives, hailing from France and Egypt respectively, added a global flavour to the technical and strategic aspects of squash with two very contrasting styles.

Youssef embodies the majestic artistry of the Egyptian approach to squash with improvisational creativity that often seems to defy the laws of physics. This is only possible because of his solid foundation of physical excellence and technical execution that create the opportunities for him to (eventually) exploit.

Victor is equally creative and entertaining to watch but comes at it from a more scientific approach with surgical execution that is so elegant he makes it look effortless. But don’t be fooled, it’s no less punishing or less entertaining than Youssef’s attacks and counterattacks.

The coaching clinic attendees were exposed to both schools of thought respecting each player’s contributions within a holistic appreciation of our great sport that embraces and encourages improvisation and creativity.

Each clinic participant was provided with a handful of suggestions for improvement they can put into practice right away. But that wasn’t all they got from the clinic… They got to play with each of the professional players, Victor, Youssef and of course our very own local legend and former World #38, Aaron Frankcomb.

We can all stand beyond the glass back wall and think we could give these guys a run for their money, but once you enter their arena, you quickly become another conquered competitor with a slightly wounded ego and newfound respect of their excellence and supremacy.

Clash Of Titans spectators engrossed in the captivating on-court action

Following the clinic, a lively meet and greet session allowed fans to interact directly with the pros on a personal level. Dr. Marc Dussault, our esteemed MC, facilitated an engaging and humorous Q&A session; delving into topics such as the players' inspirations to become professional athletes, their career trajectories, toughest opponents and most memorable victories.

Both players brought to the interview a keen sense of humour and banter about their life on the professional PSA tour. Their camaraderie resonated with everyone in attendance, fostering the sense of community and learning at the core of The Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre’s ethos.

Another highlight of the day was the showdown between the pros and our local legends. First up was David Leask's spirited match against Victor. Who knew David had all those tricks up his sleeve? A few of them got past Victor, but not enough to take the game.

Next was Jackson Wylie’s valiant battle with Youssef. Jackson left nothing on the court, giving his all for every single ball in every rally. A magnificent effort against an opponent who was… Just. Too. Good.

Then it was Luke Hillier’s exemplary attempt to rattle Victor with his legendary signature shots that definitely were a tough nut to crack, but it did indeed eventually crack. Victor’s relentless retrievals and technical exactitude were just too much to handle!

Last but not least, we were treated to our local legend: Aaron Frankcomb’s gladiatorial showdown with Youssef. Peppered with significant time violations and questionable serves it was supreme fitness versus boundless heart and passion!

All these accomplished players showcased the passion and skill that define squash at every level of the spectrum. The matches were intense yet filled with moments of sportsmanship, mutual respect and great comedic comebacks that had the crowd in stitches.

David Leask (white shirt) and Victor Crouin (green shirt)

The day’s climax was the main event, the highly anticipated Clash Of Titans: between World #7 Victor Crouin and World #11 Youssef Soliman. It was everything you would expect from two of the most creative players on the professional PSA tour.

Touted as a prelude to the 2024 Australian Open Final, the match started with the customary and very entertaining exhibition shots, routines and improvisations that often defy geometry.

Slowly but surely, the aggressive undertones of these two fierce competitors started to show through the flamboyant shots that got a bit harder, lower, deeper, straighter and more punishing.

It was as though they were peeling an onion with each layer of shots becoming even more severe and more demanding with each successive rally. Just when you thought “That’s it, there can’t be another level beyond this…” There was… And another… And then another!

Unbelievable. You had to see it live and in person to grasp the athleticism, the lightning quick reflexes and diversity of shot options from so many different places on the court. Who thought you could volley an overhead lob off an attacking back wall boast?

The crowd was left in awe and amazement by the magnificence exposed right in front of them by these two supreme athletes at the very top of their game. Youssef clinched the first Titan Title in 4, but it could easily have gone to Victor. There was no daylight between them.

We hope they will repeat this spectacle of excellence in the 2024 Australian Open Final!

Victor Crouin (green shirt) and Youssef Soliman (white shirt)

A special thank you to the organisers and sponsors of the 2024 City Tattersalls Australian Open for making this event possible and our Media and Marketing partner Ultimate Edge Communications for its expertise to help us bring this experience to more people across the Greater Sydney squash community.

To the aspiring young players and more seasoned veterans: Events like this serve as a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the heights that can be reached through dedication and passion.

We look forward to next year’s Clash Of Titans and hope to see you there!

Aaron Frankcomb looking forward to next year's Clash Of Titans

]]><![CDATA[THE Sydney Squash Exhibition is THIS Saturday, March 16th at Elanora!]]>Mon, 11 Mar 2024 02:54:44 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-sydney-squash-exhibition-is-this-saturday-march-16th-at-elanora

The Clash Of Titans is happening this week at Elanora’s Squash & Fitness Centre on Saturday, 16th March. There's no question this will be a high-energy showcase featuring the crème de la crème of squash. France’s Victor Crouin, World #7 and Egypt’s Youssef Soliman, World #11.

Since Victor and Youssef are the top two seeds
in the 2024 Australian Open,
this is a likely prelude to the final!

This is not just an exhibition,
it's a full, action-packed event!

1-3 PM Coaching Clinic With Victor And Youssef
12 lucky players are going to get on court, spending a full hour with each of the players to get insights and tips to improve their game.

Not interested to get on court, no problem. Just come, grab a cold drink and a snack and watch from the gallery. Make sure to bring your journal/notebook to take notes!

3-4 PM Meet & Greet The Players
You'll have a chance to be introduced to both players, chat with them and take part in an open Q&A session facilitated by a professional MC to get to know what makes them tick and how they became two of the most entertaining and creative players on the tour.

This will be a fully immersive experience. If you have kids who play squash (or other racket sport) or a few squash partners you regularly play with, this is a great opportunity to get together and make a fun day of it.

4-5 PM The Challenge Of The Local Legends
The challenge of the local legends will feature some of Sydney's top players. You'll get to see first-hand how great the top professional players really are, with no disrespect to our local legends!

Our balcony bar & bistro has great views and has recently been upgraded with a tasty menu courtesy of our new 'Chef Francis'.

You can expect to catch up with old friends you haven't seen in ages, united by your mutual love for the game. The day will be filled with humour and comradery that makes this event something you really don't want to miss.

6-8 PM The Clash Of Titans
This is the main event. We managed to get the top 2 seeds who will square off in the 2024 Australian Open next week... France’s Victor Crouin, World #7 and Egypt’s Youssef Soliman, World #11.

You're going be right ON TOP OF THE ACTION seeing every ball hit their racket, you'll hear the squeak of their shoes, their grunts as they lunge to get to every ball and maybe even see a few spectacular dives!

Live squash is
electrifying, exhilarating,
heart-poundingly captivating!

Choose your experience with the packages we've designed just for you:

Diamond: ALL DIAMOND TICKETS SOLD OUT!
Platinum: Front-row seats, a welcome drink on arrival, and exclusive catering. ONLY 6 PLATINUM TICKETS LEFT!
Gold: Prime viewing positions, a welcome drink on arrival, and
a selection of canapes throughout the evening. ONLY 12 GOLD TICKETS LEFT!
Silver: Unmatched value with great views, a welcome drink on arrival, and a selection of canapes throughout the evening. ONLY 23 SILVER TICKETS LEFT!
Silver and Bronze: Unmatched value with great views, a welcome drink on arrival, and a selection of canapes throughout the evening. ALL BRONZE TICKETS SOLD OUT!
Coaching Clinic with Crouin and Soliman. There were 12 available, ONLY 3 COACHING CLINIC SPOTS LEFT!

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS BEFORE THEY SELL OUT!

]]><![CDATA[Squash Exhibition – The Clash Of Titans: A Night of Thrills and Skills at Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre]]>Mon, 26 Feb 2024 09:20:40 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/squash-exhibition-2024

Get ready for a high-energy, adrenaline-pumping evening at Elanora Squash & Fitness Centre when it welcomes World #11 Youssef Soliman vs World #7 Victor Crouin to compete at the Clash Of Titans Squash Exhibition event on Saturday, 16th March, 2024.

From 4pm until late, you will witness a thrilling showdown between top international and the best of our local squash players as they put their skills to the ultimate test.

An Unmatched Line-up
The evening kicks off with a short matchup featuring former top international and local players squaring off against the pros. It's a fantastic opportunity to see how different our best local players stack up against the best on the professional tour.

The main highlight of the evening is a best-of-five match between two of the world's top-ranked squash players - Victor Crouin from France, currently World #7 and Youssef Soliman from Egypt, ranked World #11. This duel promises to be a gripping display of agility, strategy, tactics and sheer power that will have you on the edge of your seat!

Choose Your Experience
To make the evening even more memorable, we have various ticket packages to suit every budget.

Platinum tickets ($195) offer a premium experience with seating in the front two rows, a complimentary drink upon arrival, and specially catered food throughout the evening.
Gold tickets ($125) guarantee a seat in rows 3-5 or a top view from the front upstairs, along with a welcome drink and food throughout the night.
Silver tickets ($80) provide a seat in rows 6-8, a drink on arrival, and food for the duration of the event.
Bronze tickets ($60) offer standing positions in row 9, along with a welcoming drink and food.

Exclusive Coaching Clinic
Before the night’s festivities, you can get on court for a Coaching Clinic with Youssef Soliman and Victor Crouin. This two-hour session from 1-3 pm includes technical coaching, routines, and game play tips from the best on tour is $195. Limited to 12 players only!

Diamond bundle:
Includes Platinum Exhibition ticket + Coaching Clinic - $340 (Normally $390 – Save $50)

Can’t afford or don’t want to get on court? No problem, watch and listen from the gallery with your squash notebook/journal and capture all the tips and tricks for only $40 including 1 free drink. Limited to 20 spectators.

Book Now
Local exhibitions of this calibre always sell out because of space constraints. Click here to book your tickets now and experience a fantastic night of squash.

]]><![CDATA[The Academy's Once-A-Year Super Sale Is On Now]]>Fri, 23 Feb 2024 05:34:03 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-academys-once-a-year-super-sale-is-on-now

We didn't forget about the annual sale you've come to expect.

It just took a bit longer than expected. When you click on the image above, you'll agree it's worth the wait...

It's only for a limited time, until midnight on February 29th.

We're offering up to 72% off our Squash Bundles and Gift Card Vouchers!

]]><![CDATA[The value of squash coaching from a player's perspective]]>Sat, 10 Feb 2024 06:08:17 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-value-of-squash-coaching-from-a-players-perspectiveIn the pursuit of excellence on the squash court, the role of qualified coaching can’t be overstated. Seasoned players understand that navigating the complexities of this demanding sport requires more than mere passion – it requires the guidance of an experienced and qualified coach, ideally a team of them; each with their specialty!

The Academy’s mission is to assist players who seek qualified coaching in their commitment to honing their skills and achieving their own, individualise peak performance. Coaching is a holistic investment in refining your technique, enhancing your strategic and tactical acumen and adopting the resilient mindset of a champion. It’s the path to unlocking your full potential as a squash player that all champions have taken.

A qualified coach acts as your compass, providing invaluable insights and personalised strategies tailored to your unique strengths and areas for improvement. The journey from a casual, social player to an elite competitor is not one to be taken blindly; rather, it demands the discerning eye of an experienced coach who can dissect nuances, correct inefficiencies, and articulate what you need to do to achieve the desired outcome(s).

Below, we reveal insights and breakthroughs some of our dedicated players have experienced as a result of the qualified coaching they’ve received and the transformative impact of expert squash coaching including S.W.A.T. Sessions.

Their testimonials offer a glimpse into the profound changes, both technical and psychological, that arise from a commitment to structured coaching based on Deliberate Practice Principles.

Squash coaching insights and breakthroughs:

After years of improper coaching (not from the Academy!), I finally realised my biggest problem was vision-based, not technical squash stroke problems.
My biggest breakthrough was seeing how my intention before I even hit the ball improves the quality of my shot execution without any necessary technical stroke improvements. It’s like frickin’ magic.
I’ve been able to turn my (backhand) return of serve from a liability to a strength in just one session. I couldn’t believe it when it worked in my very next match.
Understanding how to get balanced to be ready for my next shot was a huge Ah Ha! moment for me because I kept getting turned or wrongfooted which was so frustrating.
Getting those short, wall-huggers off the wall now means I can get them back and not lose the rally.
I never would have believed NOT watching the ball would solve my problem of getting caught out/wrong footed ‘by surprise’.
Understanding the physics of spin was a turning point for me (ha ha).
Finally grasping the importance of the contact point on the ball and how to ‘do it’ has been the single most valuable improvement to my shot execution quality.
Being able to choose between deep, penetrating and dying length on my forehand has turned my drive into a formidable weapon.
Understanding the difference of the biomechanics of the FH versus BH and their different contact points was the surprise I never saw coming after more than 30 years of playing squash.
I learned 3 well-hidden tells my opponents reveal I can now exploit to get on top of them in my rallies, instead of me being the one chasing the ball.
The simple technique to see more of the court just blew my mind – why doesn’t everyone know this stuff?
Who knew juggling would improve my squash?
Knowing this one ‘secret’ means I can now go to the front of the court and win 80% of my rallies, which now means my opponents are reluctant to take me there!
I can now exploit the 3 worst mistakes I used to make because I can see them in my opponents!
I used to get killed with my serve, which was so frustrating. Not anymore.
I can’t believe I was never taught how to get my straight drives, volleys and lobs to stick to the wall like glue!
This one quick and easy tip didn’t just turn me into more of an attacking player, it surprisingly reduced my unforced errors.
Now that I know what to do, getting the ball out of the back corners is no longer a problem. Sometimes, I can even turn a defensive shot into an offensive one to turn the momentum in my favour!
I used to hate being pulled to the front of the court, now, with this one small change, I can confidently crush the ball for a winner or at least get on top of my opponent.
Tight (racket-breaker) shots along the wall used to terrify me, not anymore; now that I know what NOT to do.
Taking almost all of my tins out of my game means I’m not losing 2-3 stupid points per game, boosting my confidence and forcing my opponents to go for riskier (low percentage) shots instead of me.
Realising there are 8 ‘corners’ on the court means I can now deal with aggressive players who used to cut everything off.
I never knew the simple trick to get back to the T was the same for the front and back corners… #Duh
I don’t ‘freeze’ anymore when I get a loose ball mid-court. I know when to go short and where to hit it safely for a great working shot or outright winner.
Having this one word in my head has improved my shot execution and at the same time removes my negative self-talk.
Who knew being calmer and more relaxed would make me a more aggressive attacking player?!?!
Discovering why I get caught out on one side of the court but not the other was an eye opener for me, pun intended!
I never knew playing just a bit of table tennis and juggling could help my squash game.
Making this one small change to my forehand drive and volley has cut the number of loose balls I hit by at least half.
Even after 20 years of competitive play, I was never taught how to influence my opponent’s play with such subtle tactics.
I used to think deception was about being tricky, but that just creates more risk and now I know better and do that instead!

“What you teach is almost unfair to our opponents…”

The Academy provides a wide range of services to match your skill level and ambition as a casual or competitive player.

Not sure where you are on the spectrum? Click here to self-assess your proficiency level or get in touch with us and we’ll help you figure it all out.
]]><![CDATA[The Academy Junior Team Shines at the Australian Junior Open 2023: Congratulations on an Outstanding Performance!]]>Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:33:35 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-academy-junior-team-shines-at-the-australian-junior-open-2023-congratulations-on-an-outstanding-performanceThe Academy Junior Team's hard work and dedication paid off at the Australian Junior Open (AJO) 2023, held at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre in Victoria from 22nd to 24th April 2023. Amongst some of the most talented junior squash players in the country, The Academy players stood out for their exceptional performance, achieving remarkable results in their respective categories.

A special mention goes to Elizabeth Wang (U11 Girls) and Kieran Willathgamuwa (U13 Boys) on their incredible 1st place finish as Australian Junior Champions! Congratulations, Elizabeth and Kieran!

We are incredibly proud of all our players for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship on the court. Congratulations to the following Academy Juniors on their results:

U11 Girls:
1st Place: Elizabeth Wang

U11 Boys:
26th Place: Jamie Tan

U13 Boys:
1st Place: Kieran Willathgamuwa
3rd Place: Thomas Wang
11th Place: Naveen Singhera
21st Place: Karvin Shukla

U15 Boys:
4th Place: Marcus Wang
13th Place: Oliver Dickens
22nd Place: Chase Rogers
33rd Place: Josh Markham

U17 Boys:
10th Place: Jackson Wylie

U19 Boys:
14th Place: William Slade

For more results click here.

Thank you to the Academy coaching team, Mike and Aaron, who played an integral role in guiding and mentoring our players across the three-day tournament. We are grateful for their unwavering commitment to our junior players' development and their efforts in helping our players reach their full potential on and off the court.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Squash Australia for organizing such a successful event, the competitors, coaches, referees, and the host club, Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre. Thank you to our sponsors, City Houses Squash Rackets Association, Sydney CBD Squash Club, and City Tattersalls, for their continued support.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the parents and guardians of our players for their constant support and encouragement throughout the tournament.

The Academy looks forward to continuing to work with our junior players and helping them achieve their goals both on and off the squash court. Once again, congratulations to all our players on their incredible achievements. We cannot wait to see what you will accomplish in the future!

Congratulations to the East Coast Squash Academy Junior Players! Coaches Aaron Frankcomb & Mike Dickens with the Junior Performance Team at the Australian Junior Open (AJO) in Melbourne 2023.

Australian Junior Champion (U13 Boys), Kieran Willathgamuwa, with coach Aaron Frankcomb.

Coach Aaron Frankcomb with U13 Boys, Kieran Willathgamuwa (1st), and Thomas Wang (3rd).

Australian Junior Champion (U11 Girls), Elizabeth Wang, with 2nd and 3rd place U11 girls.

Elizabeth Wang (U11 Girls) with her opponent before her winning match!

]]><![CDATA[S.H.I.I.T. Sessions are now S.W.A.T. Sessions!]]>Tue, 17 Jan 2023 21:30:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/shiit-sessions-are-now-swat-sessionsEvery new year brings a sense of renewal and this year is no different. Short High Intensity Interval Training (S.H.I.I.T) Sessions were created years ago with the tongue-in-cheek acronym to draw attention to them. The joke has played out and now it’s time to get as serious as the sessions are for competitive players who understand the new acronym’s implied ‘branding’.

We’ve seen the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement S.W.A.T. teams when a situation gets out of control and needs be dealt with urgently and definitively.

The same is true for the competitive squash players who, for the past several years, have been re-trained to create very quick and measurable improvements in their match play.
The intensity of the sessions produced their fastest improvement in ranking points and for several players, they achieved their all-time-best Matrix or Sporty HQ ranking (points).

S.W.A.T. Sessions are only for both male and female adult players who are competitive intermediate, advanced or elite players on pennant teams and/or play local tournaments.

S.W.A.T. Sessions are:

S = Strategic - Means being smarter about how you play the game, developing the rally to dominate your opponents with less effort and make fewer unforced errors.
W = Weapons - We all have a few 'signature' shots we can pull off naturally. The problem is when we rely on them too often, at the wrong time, creating unforced errors and losing the momentum within a rally, game or match.
A = And - Often called Physical Chess, squash requires that combine many elements in your game instead of just having one strength or key attribute that makes or breaks you.
T= Tactics - The more tactics you have in your arsenal to attack or defend yourself, the more confident and resourceful you will be when the time comes to battle it out on court.

Have a look at the new and very detailed S.W.A.T. Session description page and if you’re keen you can l see a one-time-only, limited promotion available to the first 10 players or within the next 48 hours, whichever comes first.

]]><![CDATA[Winning Points by Using the “3-Shot Combination”]]>Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/winning-points-by-using-the-3-shot-combinationDo you feel stuck in your game? Are you unsure of how to win points against players who seem to cover the court at will? Do you find yourself frustrated or confused on court, lacking purpose and direction in your play? Drop what you’re doing, and watch this video. We have the SOLUTION!

The 3-shot combination, one of the best patterns in the game of squash, is simple, actionable, and EFFECTIVE! By understanding and implementing it, you will start to beat players you have only dreamed of!

In the linked video, Ahad Raza breaks down exactly WHAT this combination is and HOW to execute it! You will learn the importance of fundamentals and simplicity, the need to hit the obvious shot, and how to redefine a LOOSE SHOT!

Ahad will also teach some of the common mistakes players make trying to perform this combination, so you can avoid them in your game! Once you watch this video, you will be fully prepared to bring this combination into your game IMMEDIATELY, and start WINNING!

Don’t waste another second! Check out the video below, and change your game FOREVER!

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-MITM6l79g&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=1&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]><![CDATA[Oceania Junior Championships 2022]]>Tue, 20 Dec 2022 12:17:15 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/oceania-junior-championships-2022On the 17-19th December, 16 junior players from The East Coast Squash Academy competed in the Oceania Junior Championships held at Thornleigh Squash Centre. Amongst the 10 island nations that participated in the event; The Academy’s junior players achieved some outstanding results.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Wang (U11 girls) and Marcus Wang (U15 boys) for winning their respective age groups. And a special mention to Naveen Sanghera, Thomas Wang, Kasper Cheung and James Slade for placing in the top 3.

Below are The Academy team’s results:

Elizabeth Wang – Champion U11 girls
Annette Chow – 6th place U11 girls
Naveen Sanghera – 2nd place U11 boys
Jamie Tan – 14th place U11 boys
Niah Low-Nang – 4th place U13 girls
Hannah Frankcomb – 5th place U13 girls
Thomas Wang – 3rd place U13 boys
Kate Low-Nang – 7th place U15 girls
Hailey Frankcomb – 12th place U15 girls
Marcus Wang – Champion U15 boys
Kasper Cheung – 2nd place U15 boys
Oliver Dickens – 13th place U15 boys
Phillip Chow – 16th place U15 boys
Josh Markham – 20th place U15 boys
James Slade – 3rd place U17 boys

Jackson Wylie unfortunately withdrew with injury, William Slade also withdrew during the event, and Kieran Willathgamuwa was away competing in the 2022 US Junior Open Squash Championships.

Well done to all The Academy’s junior players on their great results throughout the tournament! We would like to thank Squash Australia for hosting another successful event, and all the parents and players for their continued support. Special thanks must also go to the coaching team; Aaron Frankcomb, Mike Dickens, and Jacob Robinson, who have been working closely with the junior players throughout the year and in the leadup to the event.

We now wish good luck to The Academy’s juniors Marcus Wang, Kasper Cheung and James Slade representing the green and gold against New Zealand in the Trans Tasman Test Series commencing from 20th December at Thornleigh Squash Centre.

We also wish the best of luck to the following Academy juniors who will be travelling to Birmingham, England to compete in the 2023 British Junior Open running from 4th to 8th January.

Elizabeth Wang
Thomas Wang
Kieran Willathgamuwa
Marcus Wang
Kasper Cheung
Oliver Dickens

Good luck team!

Elizabeth Wang in action

Kasper Cheung in action against Marcus Wang

Marcus Wang hitting a backhand

Thomas Wang in action

Marcus and Kasper playing in the U15 boys final in front of a packed crowd

U11 girls champion Elizabeth Wang

U11 boys runner-up Naveen Sanghera

U13 boys 3rd place Thomas Wang

U15 boys runner-up Kasper Cheung (left) and U15 boys champion Marcus Wang (centre)

U17 boys 3rd place James Slade

2022 Oceania Junior Championships age-group champions

All images in this blog post are credited to Squash Australia.

]]><![CDATA[The 8 Most Common Mistakes EVEN THE PROS MAKE!]]>Sun, 11 Dec 2022 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/the-8-most-common-mistakes-even-the-pros-makeDo you keep struggling to beat the same opponents? Find yourself under pressure or hitting the tin far more often than you’d like? Feel like you’re making mistakes in your game, but aren’t sure how to fix them?

There is some good news and bad news. The bad news? You might be making one of the 8 common squash mistakes that hold your game back from achieving NEXT LEVEL success. The good news? Even the professionals make these mistakes too!

In the video below, Ahad Raza captures the top mistakes made by players of every level and age, and HOW TO FIX THEM! Learn why we all make these errors, and then master how to overcome them!

If you can implement the information from this video into your game, your results will change dramatically. Don’t lose another match…learn what mistakes you are making, take control, and WIN!

All 8 mistakes, and fixes, are included in the video below!

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgdz9-3jVN0&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=3&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]><![CDATA[Cameron Pilley Teaches FOOLPROOF Deception!]]>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/cameron-pilley-teaches-foolproof-deceptionEver wanted to move your opponent around the court at will, dominate the flow of play, and leave them scrambling to retrieve your countless winning shots? Look no further than this video! Get ready for a MASTERCLASS on deception courtesy of the great Australian right-hander Cameron Pilley.

Finishing points in squash is difficult, and patterns can become predictable. This is where deception becomes so critical to securing a win! Former World #11 Cameron Pilley, the record-breaking shot player, has mastered deception, and now you can too!

In the video below, Ahad Raza breaks down EXACTLY how Pilley is able to fool opponents so completely. You will learn how to implement deception, its benefits, the effect of deception on patterns, and common ERRORS amateurs make in trying to use deception.

Not only that, but Ahad shows you how to use deception - while still using your natural swing and gameplan! This is the beauty of NATURAL deception…you already have exactly what it takes!

Click the link below, and unlock success you have never experienced before on court.

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neEgmnBDzRw&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=4&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]><![CDATA[James Willstrop: Winner at 38 Years Old!]]>Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/james-willstrop-winner-at-38-years-oldJames Willstrop, the former World #1, is known as “the Marksman” on tour for his laser-like accuracy. While most players retire in their early 30s, Willstrop has shown exactly what it takes to PLAY and WIN against the very best no matter your age.

Willstrop recently reached the late rounds of several major tournaments, taking out top 10 ranked opponents on his way. How did he do it? Through his effective usage of drop shots, tight length, holds, and lobs. The best part about his tactics? You can use them too, no matter your age!

In the video linked to this article, Ahad Raza dives deep into what makes Willstrop so good, even at 38! Learn the physical position needed for a drop shot and how to hit Willstrop’s SIGNATURE “long drop”, how to hit tight length from anywhere on court, and why Willstrop’s holds are so effective!

Using these examples, Ahad will allow you to make adjustments to your own game to win, no matter you age. You will also gain appreciation for just how impressive Willstrop’s success is!

Looking for the gameplan of your dreams, no matter your age? Look no further than the link below! Click now, and get ready to learn!

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w37-9d8Siig&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=5&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]><![CDATA[Australian Junior Championships 2022]]>Tue, 04 Oct 2022 03:05:50 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/australian-junior-championships-2022On the 27th-30th of October, 11 players from The East Coast Squash Academy travelled to Perth to play in the 2022 Australian Junior Championships hosted at Mirrabooka Squash Club.

The Academy team performed outstandingly, with 9 players finishing in the top 10 & 5 players finishing in the top 4 in Australia.

A special mention to the Australian Junior Championships finalists Elizabeth Wang, Marcus Wang, Kasper Cheung & William Slade. Congratulations Elizabeth (U11) & Kasper (U15), for winning their respective age groups.

See below the Academy teams results —>

Elizabeth Wang - 1st place U11 girls
Thomas Wang - 6th place U13 boys
Kieran Willathgamuwa - 5th place U13 boys
Oliver Dickens - 7th place U15 boys
Chase Rogers - 12th place U15 boys
Marcus Wang - 2nd place U15 boys
Kasper Cheung - 1st place U15 boys
James Slade - 5th place U17 boys
William Slade - 2nd place U17 boys
Kevin Willathgamuwa - 12th place U19 boys
Maggie Goodman - 3rd place U19 girls

Congratulations to William Slade, who was awarded the most improved junior male player of the tournament, rising from a 5/8 seed to finishing 2nd place, beating number 3/4 seed, Aryan Madan & number 1 seed, Thomas Scott.

Well done also to 6 of our Academy team members who represented the NSW State team and finished 3rd place in the Australian Junior Championships Teams event.

The Academy team selected players were:

Kieran Willathgamuwa - U13 boys
Chase Rogers - U15 boys
Kasper Cheung - U15 boys
James Slade - U17 boys
William Slade - U17 boys
Kevin Willathgamuwa - U19 boys

Congratulations to The Academy Junior Team on their great results throughout the tournament. All players rose to the challenge, playing with great sportsmanship and leaving nothing on the court. The Academy team are proud of everyone’s performance and would like to thank all the parents and players for their support and belief in our programs.

Thank you to Squash Australia for organising the successful event, the competitors & coaches, the referees, the parents, Mirrabooka Squash Club (host club), The Academy sponsors, City Houses Squash Rackets Association, Sydney CBD Squash Club & City Tattersalls and The Academy coaching team, Mike & Aaron, for taking the time to coach the players across the 3 days.

The Academy looks forward to continuing to work with our junior players and helping them reach their full potential both on and off the squash court.

U15 Boys Champion Kasper Cheung (left) and U15 Boys 2nd Marcus Wang (centre)

U11 Girls Champion Elizabeth Wang (centre)

Academy junior Kevin Willathgamuwa in action

Academy junior Oliver Dickens

]]><![CDATA[Ramy Ashour: The Combination Master]]>Sun, 11 Sep 2022 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/ramy-ashour-the-combination-masterKnown as “The Artist”, Ramy Ashour is one of the greatest squash players of all time. His dazzling nicks, unique deception, and flowing wrist led to countless titles. Not only that, Ramy was one of the fairest and most honest players ever to play the game.

But what EXACTLY made Ramy so good? How did he find the open court so often and fire in winners with ease? His secrets to success lie in his many unbelievably successful combinations and patterns of play.

In the video below, Ahad Raza breaks down how Ramy played and won, and how YOU can do the same. Learn how to set and implement patterns just like Ramy, and begin to hit winners just like “The Artist”. Then, enjoy some of the greatest rallies in squash history, courtesy of Ramy himself.

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rliss57xua4&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=6&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]><![CDATA[Paul Coll Makes Winning Simple and Systematic]]>Tue, 09 Aug 2022 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au/blog/paul-coll-makes-winning-simple-and-systematicPaul Coll, the former World #1 and fittest man on tour, has won countless matches in the past year, leading to 5 PSA titles including 2 British Open Championships! How does he do it? What are his SECRETS TO SUCCESS?

Actually, it’s simple. By applying simple strategies on court, following a strict gameplan, and using one DEADLY attacking shot, Coll has shot to the top of the world rankings in a matter of months.

In the video below, Ahad Raza breaks down exactly how Paul Coll has become so successful by simplifying his game. Not only that, he provides a framework for each and every viewer to take control of their squash improvement.

You will learn how to think about your game, how to simplify for success, and how to win at the very top level, just like Paul Coll.

Don’t wait! Click below, and experience what it is like to be a winner.

Video Link on Ahad's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5r-XvV6ZZI&list=TLPQMDgwNzIwMjISLbp70P-vMQ&index=7&ab_channel=ARProformance

Ahad’s Virtual Coaching Academy: www.arproformance.com/virtual-squash-coaching-academy

Ahad’s website: www.arproformance.com

]]>

Since Victor and Youssef are the top two seedsin the 2024 Australian Open,this is a likely prelude to the final!This is not just an exhibition, it's a full, action-packed event!

Live squash is electrifying, exhilarating, heart-poundingly captivating!

Since Victor and Youssef are the top two seeds
in the 2024 Australian Open,
this is a likely prelude to the final!

This is not just an exhibition,
it's a full, action-packed event!

Live squash is
electrifying, exhilarating,
heart-poundingly captivating!