Coaches Triumph in 2024 Squash Doubles Tournament

Our 2024 Squash Double Tournament took place on 15th June, with four pairs taking to the courts in a round robin battle. Last year’s winners Phil Jenkins and Simon Joyce had new partners this year with Phil paired with Steve Turpin and Simon paired with his son Jake Joyce. Doubles mainstay Tony Blott, who was one half of the winning pair in 2022, was this year part of a triangular team that included Mike Bowman (returning from injury) and Jools Copper (dodgy knees!). The fourth pair were squash coach duo Ryan Pescod and Sam Morris.

There was a great buzz during the afternoon with four well matched pairs and an audience looking on … with an array of great shots and rallies being played. A few crucial points made all the difference. Matches were played best of 3 games to 15 points.

The destination of the trophy came down to the final match with Ryan & Sam unbeaten on 4 points and Simon & Jake on 2 points with one win and one loss. The team of 3 (Tony, Mike & Jools) had finished on 4 points from 3 matches – having only lost to Ryan & Sam 2-0. This meant that if Simon & Jake could overcome Ryan & Sam 2-0 then we would go into a three-way tie and a playoff for the trophy.

The first game was hotly contested, with Simon & Jake taking it narrowly after Ryan & Sam hit a couple of shots into the tin. Game on! However, Ryan & Sam kept their cool, switched up their tactics and after some interesting family politics from the Joyce pair on court, Ryan & Sam took the next 2 games to win 2-1 and take the 2024 title.

A really good afternoon all round with some quality squash played by all the pairs in great spirit. And in the usual post squash routine, a well deserved beer (or two!) and packet of Nobbies Nuts in the club lounge was enjoyed by all afterwards.