By DANIEL HORSCROFT
Clements Juniors Squash Club recently hosted a friendly competition with clubs from the local area, Kingswood (Basildon) and Bannatynes (Chafford Hundred).
The event was held to allow all juniors of all ages and abilities to play squash in a friendly environment but still have that competitive spirit that resides in all squash players.
The viewing gallery had not seen such numbers in many years with 20 plus children (7-18) and the same number of adults and coaches. After the initial chaos, coaches trying to organise their players and parents, games commenced.
The juniors were divided into 4 leagues setup and played best of 3, PAR 11.
Box 1 resulted in some highly competitive squash that provided some entertaining moments. Ki managed to overcome Leo both showing great attitude. Ali’s power then overcame Ki. Sam managed to top the group with a spirited display.
Box 2 Oliver just squeezed past Manuela. Rishi and Oliver had a very close game with Oliver managing to maintain his winning streak. Charlie then overcame Rishi in a close battle.
Box 3 Selina and Hannah had a very tight match both veterans of squash game, Lewis & David looked in fantastic form. Finlay playing in his first event showed real character in his games and managed to turn a deficit to a hard earned win. Aiden and Matthew both Bannatynes played controlled squash Aiden beating Selina and losing out 2-1 in a close match with David
Box 4 had some real great squash played James, Evan, Adrian, Alex & Jamie played to a great standard and a lot of proud parents on the balcony. The last game of the day went to Adrian in a very tired but high quality game.
In total 30 games were played until lunch after which some diehard players stayed on and the format was switched to best of 5 PAR 11. Another 12 were held and some very tired juniors at the end of it.
A number of parents helped with the scoring, Del Mitchel was just passing and assisted with parents, scoring and players. Del Croll coached, mentored and scored. It was a real team effort and showed what a great spirited event it was everyone deserved thanks.
We hope to hold this event again in February 2016. It would not be possible without Kerry Munn (Kingwood) and Mick Thomas (Bannatynes) for helping make this event work. Their players behaved impeccably and are a real credit to squash.