Drops, Drives and Determination at Junior Squash Club Championships

The Junior Club Championships 2026 showcased a fantastic evening of squash across all age groups, with brilliant effort, determination and sportsmanship on display from every player involved. From the youngest competitors in the Mixed Under 11s right through to the older juniors in the Boys Under 17s, the tournament highlighted the exciting future of squash at the club.

One of the standout features throughout the event was the excellent spirit in which every match was played. There were plenty of smiles, laughter and encouragement between players, creating a brilliant atmosphere courtside all evening long. The competition was competitive whilst remaining friendly and supportive, which is exactly what junior squash is all about.

A huge amount of credit must go to all of the players who entered. Some of the juniors are still very new to squash and showed tremendous courage stepping onto court against much more experienced opponents. Every player gave their best effort and represented themselves brilliantly throughout.

Mixed Under 11

The Mixed Under 11 category produced some excellent rallies and enthusiastic squash from all players involved. It was especially impressive to see how quickly many of the newer players are developing their movement, racket skills and understanding of the game. The group played with fantastic energy and confidence, making for some exciting matches and close contests. Florence, the most experienced player in the age group proved that all her hard work she is dedicating to the sport is paying off winning all her matches. However, Aurélie, Joshua and Daisy-Mae, although newer to the game showed just how quickly they are improving and it was evident how much they enjoyed themselves on court as they all managed to get into some great rallies!

Finals Standings

Winner – Florence S

Runner-Up – Aurélie O

3rd – Joshua W

4th – Daisy-Mae C

Girls Under 13

The Girls Under 13 category featured some strong rallies and determined performances throughout. The players demonstrated great shot selection and resilience, with every match played in a positive and supportive manner. Isabelle won both her matches including a good performance against her younger sister Florence, who unfortunately started to run out of puff having just played and won the Under 11 category! Etta put in two good performances against the Smith sisters as she sees her squash go from strength to strength now that she is starting to play more regularly.

Final Standings

Winner – Isabelle S

Runner-up – Florence S

3rd – Etta S

Boys Under 13

The Boys Under 13 category delivered some highly competitive matches. The players showed determined movement around the court and battled hard for every point. Ben showed how much he is quickly improving with the increased court time and coaching sessions he attends, although Ernest, who is also very committed to squash and also playing up an age group, proved that he was a worthy contender taking a game off Ben. Ariyan gave it his all in his matches but unfortunately Ben & Ernest were too strong on the day. 

Final Standings

Winner – Ben M

Runner-Up – Ernest W

3rd – Ariyan R

Boys Under 15

The Boys Under 15 category was packed with intensity and quality squash. Matches were played at a fast pace with strong rallies and some excellent retrieving skills shown throughout the group. The players competed hard whilst continuing to show outstanding respect for each other and the game. Alex proved too strong on the day demonstrating his recent improvement stemming from regular play and commitment to solo training. Alfie gave him a great test taking a game off Alex in a very tightly fought match, but Alex’s consistency throughout each rally pulled him through. Both Jesse and Jai put in some great performances throughout as well, also showing how much they have improved with regular play and group coaching sessions. 

Final Standings

Winner – Alex D

Runner-up – Alfie S

3rd – Jesse P

4th – Jai K

Boys Under 17

The Boys Under 17 category rounded off the tournament with some of the strongest squash of the day. The older juniors displayed impressive tactical awareness, powerful hitting and great composure under pressure. The level of play demonstrated from the more experienced players showed how much progress these players have made through their years of training and competition. The newer players put in some valiant performances, throwing themselves into the deep end which was great to see. Oliver played with power, control and speed to win the category, displaying his significant improvement and commitment to squash in general and was the worthy winner. Both Alex and Alfie, playing up an age group, put on some great performances and battled hard, while Jacob and Joel, who are newer to squash both showed great aptitude and willingness to get stuck in against players far more experienced than them.

Final Standings

Winner – Oliver E

Runner-up – Alex D

3rd – Alfie S

4th – Jacob B

5th – Joel C

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Junior Club Championships was a tremendous success and a brilliant celebration of junior squash at the Club. Every player should be extremely proud of their performances, attitude and effort throughout the evening.

A big thank you also goes to the parents and supporters who helped create such a positive environment for all of the juniors to enjoy. The future of squash at the Club looks incredibly bright with so many enthusiastic and talented young players coming through.