The 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!

Every 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.

Do 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

On 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!

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

Do 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

Ever 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

James 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    

​On 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.

Known 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    

Paul 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

​The Australian Team headed for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham have named squash legend Rachael Grinham as one of the dual flagbearers for the opening ceremony. This is only the second time that the Australian team has had co-flagbearers.
 
The dual flagbearers were revealed by Australian Team Chef de Mission, Petria Thomas OAM in the presence of their Excellencies Governor-General, the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Mrs Linda Hurley.
 
Grinham is a sixth-time squash representative for the Australian team. She is an eight-time Commonwealth Games medallist – two of them gold – and becomes the first squash player in the history of the Games to carry the flag.
 
Grinham, who has been synonymous with the sport of squash from a teenager, becoming one of the sport’s all-time greatest players. She made her Games debut in 1998 in Kuala Lumpur as a 21-year-old, winning silver with Robyn Cooper in the women’s doubles. She went on to play in 2002, 2006, 2014 and 2018.
 
World No.5 Joelle King from New Zealand and World No.18 Tesni Evans from Wales have also been selected as female flagbearers for their respective countries at the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
 
The Birmingham 2022 Australian team, with 430 team members, is the largest team for an overseas Games.

Sydney, 25 July 2022 – Australia’s leading squash academy, The East Coast Squash Academy, is pleased to announce the new arrival of the Visiting Assistant Squash Coach Jacob Robinson from the UK to its coaching faculty.  
 
Jacob brings over six years of coaching experience, having coached players at all levels, from beginners to elite players. Among the professionals, Jacob has coached Finlay Withington (England junior international), Saran Nghiem (England junior international), Jess Davis, Patrick Rooney (Highest PSA World Ranking, # 28), Adam Murrils (Highest PSA World Ranking, # 76), and Chris Longman who is the head squash professional at Germantown cricket club in Philadelphia.
​
Clubs and organisations Jacob has coached at include: Bowdon Squash Club, Greenwich Leisure Limited, Manchester Squash Academy, Aspire North West and the Calder Community.

Jacob’s other squash-related accomplishments involve; working with England Squash on their outreach projects with disadvantaged communities and developing promotional material for England Squash, including being filmed for the official England Squash 101 YouTube video.

Jacob has worked with local primary and high schools within Manchester to introduce squash to the school curriculum. He has also helped develop and implement programs for young men and women, the LGBT community and young adults who have fallen out of the school system.
​
 Jacob’s accomplishments as a squash player include:
​

• Represented England against Wales and Scotland at the U17 level
• Qualified England Squash Level 1,2 & 3 Squash Coach
• Career-high No.3 England National in the U17
• England Development Squad Coach
• England top 5 ranking in the U13, U15, U17
• England Squash Grand Prix Platinum Event Champion - U15, U17
• Cheshire County Champion - U11, U13, U15, U17, U19
• North West Of England Champion - U13, U15, U17

 
The Academy has been an innovator within the Australian squash community, facilitating corporate team-building events and workshops to improve teamwork in organisations to enhance health, wellness and wellbeing in the workforce through squash.
 
Jacob is available for one-on-one and group coaching for players of all ages and abilities. Make the most of his skills and expertise while he is here!
 
Jacob Robinson
Contact details: Tel: 0426 649 393
Email: jacob@EastCoastSquashAcademy.com.au

Paul Coll, known on tour as “Superman”, shot up the rankings to World #1 in March 2022. The fittest man to ever play the game, Coll’s clinical and attritional style of play breaks down even the most skilled opponents.
 
Coll was not a very successful junior player, but has become one of the strongest players on the PSA World Tour. What changed in his game? What does he do better than any other player? Ahad Raza believes that Coll’s fundamentals are key to his success, and yours as well.
 
The video below focuses on Coll’s exceptional racquet preparation, and his resulting ability to deceive his opponents. Using examples from different areas of the court and different in-game scenarios, Ahad shows how effective Coll’s preparation is in providing him opportunities to win.
 
The simplicity of this adjustment will shock some viewers, but Coll’s success is undeniable. By watching, you will come away hitting the ball more cleanly, understanding how and why to prepare differently in different situations, and knowing how to incorporate any new skill into your game quickly and easily.
 
What are you waiting for? Check out the video at the link below!

The sun was shining in Sydney as an array of players took to the courts at The Academy Junior Bronze event. Sanctioned by Squash Australia there were vital points to be earned for junior rankings, matchplay practise for upcoming Gold events and also a chance for newcomers to dip their toe into a beginner level of competition.
 
The day started off at the Sydney University Arena Sports Centre with our novice grades, where players from St Andrew’s Cathedral School competed, for many in their first round robin format. Players from Yr 7 to Yr 12 enjoyed the fun competition at The Arena courts that have recently had upgrades to its flooring making the court very playable with great viewing from the balcony.
 
Yr 11 student Justin New was the eventual winner.
 
Across Sydney the City Tattersalls Club hosted division 1 and 2. This was littered with Australian and State champions and there were a number of 5 set battles throughout the day.

​Division 1 was taken by Will who got the upper hand in a lengthy, topsy turvy match against his brother. No love was lost when James hit a back wall nick after a 60 shot rally!

Division 2 again had State and Australian champions competing. Ethan Middleton ran out the winner after a tough first round 3-2 win against Oliver Dickens he came through a tough final 3-1 against Australian U11 Champion Thomas Wang.
 
Division 1
Winner                          Will Slade
Runner Up                    James Slade
3rd Place                      Marcus Wang
 
Division 2
Winner                          Ethan Middleton
Runner Up                    Thomas Wang
3rd Place                       Oliver Dickens

​Our 3rd venue, Sydney University Sports and Aquatic Centre, hosted division 3 and division 4.
​
These divisions had a number of beginner players who have started the journey in the fun competitions and some budding players for the future, mainly under the age of 11.

The division 3 final between Nathanial Middleton and Elizabeth Wang saw both players progress comfortably through the draw, setting up a deciding match between the two with Nathanial taking the win 3-1. The last match of the day was a tough battle between twins Jim and George, with Jim coming out on top in a closely contested 5 games!

Division 4 saw several juniors playing in their first tournament. Hailey took the title 3-1 in a competitive match against her younger sister Hannah, whilst Jamie, one of the youngest players in the draw, impressed with his fierce determination to run after every single ball regardless of the score line.
 
Division 3
Winner                          Nathaniel Middleton
Runner Up                    Elizabeth Wang
3rd Place                       Jim Wilson
 
Division 4
Winner                          Hailey Frankcomb
Runner Up                    Hannah Frankcomb
3rd Place                       Isaac Taylor

 ​A fantastic day of squash, excellent competitive and fair spirit throughout.
​
The Academy also runs a number of Junior Training Squads throughout the week and Timed Tournaments for juniors to participate in.

​Sebastien Bonmalais is a young, up and coming PSA player based out of Aix-en-Provence, France. He is an explosive, dynamic and humble player on a fast trajectory for success.
 
This is a super long video, over an hour and a half in length filled with high quality content you can apply to your training and game immediately. You might want to start now and digest it in a few sittings because you don’t want to miss the ONE KEY distinction that might help you win your next match or tournament!
 
In this video, Sebastien and Ahad discuss everything from Sebastien’s “beginner’s mind” – how Sebastien reached out to Ahad to get Ahad’s perspective on his game – to learning to let go of outcomes.
 
The video also covers advanced technical aspects like energy transfer in your shots, the tactical context that affects shot selection. The best part of this video is it’s all done in a unique, coaching style video review that Sebastien graciously agreed to share (without any idea of what Ahad was going to point out).
 
If you love playing squash and want to understand the psyche of a top 50 player, this is a must-watch video to fully understand and appreciate the attention to detail and the many technical subtleties of the game when you’re playing at the top of the game.

​About Ahad Raza
 
Ahad Raza is a former Professional Squash Association (PSA) touring athlete and top 10 Canadian player. He is a published author on mindset and peak performance. Ahad mentors athletes, business executives and business owners on mindset, peak performance, and squash. Ahad presents unique content on his AR Proformance YouTube channel where he (1) analyses the subtleties of professional squash in depth, and (2) interviews top players to inspire, empower, and help guide the transformation of squash players around the world. Ahad is extremely passion about squash, and he is grateful to be able to share his experiences with you virtually and via his website.

​Congratulations to all our junior players who participated in the AJO this week.
 
12 Academy players competed in the event and 9 of them finished in the top 4 in Australia (75%).  What an outstanding result! Our players have applied great discipline and determination to their training over the last year and it is fulfilling to see their hard work pay off.
 
Congratulations to the players who finished on the podium and superseded their rank.  Well done on a great performance!
 
Below are The Academy’s team's results:
 
Champion - Under 11 boys - Thomas Wang
2nd - Under 11 girls - Elizabeth Wang + U15 Girls Doubles Champion
4th - Under 13 boys - Oliver Dickens
5th - Under 13 boys - Kieran Willathgamuwa
2nd - Under 15 boys - Kasper Cheung
3rd - Under 15 boys - Marcus Wang + U15 Boys Doubles Runner-up
4th - Under 15 boys - Jackson Wiley
14th - Under 15 boys - Chase Rogers  
2nd - Under 17 boys - James Slade
4th - Under 17 boys - Will Slade
3rd - Under 19 girls - Maggie Goodman + U19 Girls Doubles Champion
14th - Under 19 boys - Kevin Willathgamuwa 
 
International – Singapore:
9th - Under 19 boys - James Nicholas
 
Thank you to Bendigo Squash Club, Squash Australia Tournament Officials, Referees and Sponsors for running a fantastic event!

Thank you to City Tattersalls for their support of the Junior Squash Program and for their continued support of our juniors. Some of the children who competed are City Tatts Junior Squash members: Elizabeth Wang, Marcus Wang, Oliver Dickens, James Slade and William Slade.

Furthermore, thank you to the parents. It is undoubtedly an honour and privilege to work with your children; we appreciate the trust and faith you have in the Academy to assist your children to reach their full potential.  We are grateful for your ongoing support!
 
Lastly, well done to the entire East Coast Squash Academy team. These outstanding results would not have happened without the dedication and commitment of our coaches & administration team. Special thanks to Tomi Niinimaki (Finnish Coach) & Mike Dickens (British Coach) who have made a great contribution to the growth of our junior players. Our passionate coaches work tirelessly to grow the game of squash and are inspiring role models for all our players.
 
Congratulations and, once again, thank you for your support.  

​Mike Way is the director of squash at Harvard, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Mike was a former professional player during the Khan era with the privilege of having played both of the Khan legends, Jahangir and Jansher on tour. In the video below, he tells a funny story about Jansher
 
Despite being a former pro, Mike has really made an impact after retiring, when he took up coaching. He was Jonathan Power’s coach and has coached Ali Farag and many other top players during their college tenure, including the up-and-comer top 20 Victor Crouin.
 
In the video below, Mike Way and Ahad Raza discuss a plethora of topics from using your mistakes to learn to develop more quickly, the role of effective communication in game coaching strategy as well as several swing versus target-based drills to develop focus just to name a few.

​About Ahad Raza
 
Ahad Raza is a former Professional Squash Association (PSA) touring athlete and top 10 Canadian player. He is a published author on mindset and peak performance. Ahad mentors athletes, business executives and business owners on mindset, peak performance, and squash. Ahad presents unique content on his AR Proformance YouTube channel where he (1) analyses the subtleties of professional squash in depth, and (2) interviews top players to inspire, empower, and help guide the transformation of squash players around the world. Ahad is extremely passion about squash, and he is grateful to be able to share his experiences with you virtually and via his website.

​Ali Farag is not just a former World #1, he’s one of the fairest, consistent and amazing players to watch on tour for the past 12 years now.
 
So, what makes Farag so consistent and difficult to play? Among many great aspects of his game, his movement is efficient, he anticipates extremely well, and his one court awareness is second-to-none.
 
The video below focuses on Farag’s awareness. Using a specific example of traditional “bad length”, Ahad explains the true definition of “good length”. It isn’t the conventional idea of the ball being glued to the side wall. Ali’s explanation will be an eye-opening revelation for most recreational and competitive players. 

​As we cover in our Successful Squash Strategies Program, your on-court performance is as much about your mental approach to the games as it is about your physical prowess. At the very top of the game, all the players can move and hit the ball. HOW they do that is what separates them and Ali Farag’s approach is a unique champion’s perspective.
 
About Ahad Raza
 
Ahad Raza is a former Professional Squash Association (PSA) touring athlete and top 10 Canadian player. He is a published author on mindset and peak performance. Ahad mentors athletes, business executives and business owners on mindset, peak performance, and squash. Ahad presents unique content on his AR Proformance YouTube channel where he (1) analyses the subtleties of professional squash in depth, and (2) interviews top players to inspire, empower, and help guide the transformation of squash players around the world. Ahad is extremely passion about squash, and he is grateful to be able to share his experiences with you virtually and via his website.

Finals Night 17th February 2022

After a disrupted season the competitors regrouped throughout January and February to set up an exciting finale to the City Houses Ladies Competition.

The team finalists were CBAW1 (captained by Vince Leung) vs CHSCW4 (Captained by Rachel Visontay). This was always going to be a close encounter on paper and the action didn’t disappoint.

With the score line finishing at 2 matches each we had to use count back with the winner having the most games scored. CBAW1 only just took the title with a 9 games to 8 victory.

There was some fantastic play by all competitors involved and it is awesome to see players improve throughout the season.

City Tattersalls has been the venue throughout and will be the host to a final coaching night for the participants to cover any aspects of the game they wish to improve on.

The competition and coaching nights have been led by  Mike Dickens (Senior Professional Squash Coach at the East Coast Squash Academy) and assisted by Anna McRae (In Club Coach at The Academy)

Our goal is to encourage as many females as we can to the healthiest sport in the world!

A great starting point being The Academy’s Small Group Classes.

Some of the finalists pictured above.

Sydney, 10 February 2020 – Australia’s leading squash academy, The East Coast Squash Academy, is pleased to announce the arrival of Tomi Niinimaki as a visiting member of its coaching faculty.  
 
Niinimaki brings over 20 years of coaching experience and was ranked 6th in Finland at the pinnacle of his playing career. His extensive coaching experience, knowledge of mental toughness, psychology, motor skills and muscular strength training will help strengthen and support the Academy’s coaching faculty.

Niinimaki has coached players at all levels, from juniors and adults to top ranked international players and national teams. Among the professionals Tomi has coached include: Simon Rösner (World #3), Raphael Kandra (World #13), Olli Tuominen (World #13), Mahesh Mangaonkar (World #44) and Sina Wall (World #41).

Teams and clubs Tomi has coached include: Finland men’s and women’s National Teams, Estonian National Team, Paderborner Squash Club, Finland Racketlon national, Finland National team & regional junior camps, Espoo Squash Rackets Club and Mäkelänrinne Sports High School.

Tomi’s other squash related accomplishments involve; being a panel member of the European Disciplinary Appeal Panel since 2021, a member of the coaching panel of the Finnish SRA 2015, a member of the group organising the European Team Championships 2011 and a member of the Finnish SRA board, 2009-2010.

Tomi has developed the material for Finland’s national Level 1 coaching course, organised a “Squash for school kids” campaign, organised and hosted exhibition matches, organised "Squash for everyone" events, organised national tournaments and events.

 Tomi Niinimaki’s accomplishments as a squash player include:

• Finland National ranking career high No. 6.
• 7th in the National championships in 2011
• Squash doubles Finnish national champion in 2008 and 2009
• Finland national club championship gold 2009, bronze 2010 and 2011
• Quarterfinals in Finnish national championships 2005
• Five gold medals in the Nordic junior team championships 1994-1998
• U16 and U19 national team 1993-1998
• Several medals in national championships as a junior
• Several international tournaments 

​
The Academy has been an innovator within the Australian squash community, facilitating corporate team building events and workshops to improve teamwork in organisations to enhance health, wellness and wellbeing in the workforce through squash.
 
While Tomi is in Sydney, he will be available for one-on-one and group coaching for players of all ages and abilities. Make the most of his skills and expertise while he is here!
 
Tomi Niinimaki
Contact details: Tel: 0405 018 561
Email: Tomi@EastCoastSquashAcademy.com.au
​

​The young “raging bull”, Mostafa Asal, has burst onto the professional squash circuit over the last few years. At only 20 years of age, as of January 2022, he was ranked #5 in the world.
 
Asal is a solid athlete and squash player. Some may say that he's a borderline phenom. But, there’s a lot of controversy surrounding the way he plays. Many dislike his on-court antics; his path of movement to and from the ball/shot, how he ‘uses’ his trailing leg, holding/pushing his opponents, and on-court celebrations.
 
Others feel that he is being hard done by (1) harsh, unfair referee decisions and (2) the haters on social media.
 
In the squash analysis video below, Ahad Raza:
 

1. Breaks down the subtleties Asal leverages on court to give himself an advantage,
2. Highlights potential causes for his behavior,
3. Suggests an approach we can all take when talking about Asal, and
4. showcases the awesome ability and further potential he has!

​These views are Ahad’s. He does a great job explaining the subtleties of the controversy. As someone wise once stated: There is YOUR version, there is MY version and somewhere in-between lies the truth.
 
You can make up your own mind where you stand, just be RESPECTFUL of others’ point of view and have fun out there on the court!
 
About Ahad Raza
 
Ahad Raza is a former Professional Squash Association (PSA) touring athlete and top 10 Canadian player. He is a published author on mindset and peak performance. Ahad mentors athletes, business executives and business owners on mindset, peak performance, and squash. Ahad presents unique content on his AR Proformance YouTube channel where he (1) analyses the subtleties of professional squash in depth, and (2) interviews top players to inspire, empower, and help guide the transformation of squash players around the world. Ahad is extremely passion about squash, and he is grateful to be able to share his experiences with you virtually and via his website.

The NSW Junior State Titles took place at Thornleigh Squash Club on the 11th and 12th December. The Academy was well represented in both the boys and girls competitions.

It was fantastic to see some of our new players, from our junior training squads, at their first ever State titles and acquitting themselves with great confidence and drive. It was a very proud moment for us as coaches to see these players at the early stages of their squash playing life coming up against some of the best players in the country and giving their all.

The Academy boasted nearly a third of the entrants and we will endeavour to grow this further. The future is bright for squash in NSW!

Well done to all the Academy players that entered:

Elizabeth Wang –          Under 11 Girls Winner & Under 13’s 5th place
Marcus Wang –             Under 11 Boys/13 Boys Winner
Thomas Wang –            Under 11 Boys Winner & Under 11 Boys/13 Boys 4th Place
Kieran Willathgamuw    Under 11/13 Boys 5th Place
Oliver Dickens               Under 11/13 Boys 6th Place
Camiel Bertens             Under 11/13 Boys 11th place
Chase Rogers                Under 15 Boys 15th Place
Ramya Satchi                Under 15 Girls 3rd place
Catherine Hay               Under 15 Girls 4th Place
Kate Low-Nang             Under 15 Girls 6th Place
James Slade                  Under 17 Boys 3rd Place
William Slade                Under 17 Boys 4th Place
Charlie Roughan            Under 17 Boys 8th Place
Maggie Goodman         Under 17/19 Girls Winner
Neelan Satchi                Under 19 Boys Runner Up
Zac Giuffre                    Under 19 Boys 5th Place
 
For more information on our junior training squads and private lessons please contact:
mike@eastcoastsquashacademy.com.au
 
Learn it. Play it. Squash it.

​The East Coast Squash Academy is proud to announce the new memberships for squash enthusiasts of all levels! These brand-new memberships come with huge savings and many inclusions. They are offered as BRONZE memberships for casual players, SILVER memberships for new squash players seeking to improve, GOLD memberships for serious players who want the winner’s edge, and VIP memberships for elite and high-performance players with the highest level of dedication to improving and winning.
 
Players who signed up in the first week and made the commitment to take their squash to the next level went into the draw to win 1 of 12 prizes worth a total of $1830!
 
Congratulations to our Week 1 prize winner, Andrew Waters who will receive a 1 hour Play the Pro Session with Brad Fullick, valued at $125!
 
For more details on the memberships and inclusions click here.
 
Kick off your 2022 with a bang and sign up now for huge sign-up bonuses and the chance to win more prizes!

​Women’s Squash Week is a campaign encouraging squash communities to celebrate women in squash. Over the past week, clubs and federations from all around the world have hosted a range of events to increase participation and engagement in women’s squash.
 
The East Coast Squash Academy continues to promote and expand female participation in squash with programs that encourage more women to take up the sport. Over the last 18 months over 60 women have taken part in a team competition in the Sydney CBD. These exciting round-robin competitions have provided opportunities to compete in a fun and supportive environment with other women.

​The academy-run Squash Girls Can program has also been a great success, with many women taking part in the sport for the first time and given the opportunity to develop their skills and improve their overall fitness. Among them is academy coach and high-performance player Anna McRae (pictured above in the white T-shirt), who first picked up a racquet as part of the Squash Girls Can program in late 2019. Anna has since been training regularly with the academy and improved very rapidly, she is now training semi-professionally with the hopes of playing for Australia!
 
East Coast Squash Academy Director, Aaron Frankcomb and Senior Professional Coach, Mike Dickens are expanding the junior program to cater for complete beginners right through to female juniors looking to represent the country. We hope to see many more female players of all ages and abilities take up the sport, and continue to grow women’s squash.

​Squash Australia has recently announced a major integrated rebranding campaign. Squash Australia and all States and Territories have adopted new logos, built around the ideas of dynamism and unity, as part of a new Marketing and Communications plan. The plan aims to raise the profile of the sport across the country, support and grow participation, and establish a coordinated brand identity across all stakeholders and levels of the sport.
 
In a message from the Squash Australia CEO, Robert Donaghue, he stated: “We want to make squash more relevant and visible, changing the misplaced perception of squash as a sport that only rewards the fully dedicated and fit athletes, and presenting it as a healthy and accessible option for anyone who wants to maintain an active lifestyle and enjoy sport socially.”
 
He added: “For us it’s a statement of intent as much as a commitment to action. We want to see more people playing squash more often, continue developing the pathways and achieve international success, so that the heroes of our sport can inspire the new generation to embrace the discipline and create a virtuous circle.”

​Regarding the new campaign and integration between the associations, Squash NSW President John Small said: “We’re very much looking to go forward together now. The new brand identity will make it clear that we are all part of the same organisation, even though we maintain our individual state and territory identities & traditions within it.”
 
Matt Schmidt, Squash Australia Board member and Chair of the Profile Working Team adds: "The marketing strategy is aligned with our broader Strategic Plan and is part of a series of projects which Squash Australia will develop over the coming months to ensure that the sport grows its reach within the Australian audience, and ultimately drive participation. A stronger squash community, which includes court owners and court operators, will also provide a solid platform to advocate for the inclusion of Squash in the Olympic program in the lead up to Brisbane 2032”.
 
To read the Marketing and Communications plan in full, click here.