Fram Gommendy reports:
Back in May 2024, Santa Barbara School of Squash Executive Director Robert Graham decided to start a FB page. And “Squash for Good“ was born.
I am a member. It’s not a big group, but I like the tone and respectful atmosphere of the discussions. Discover ‘Meet The Pro’
1. What years did you compete professionally and what was your highest ranking?
1990 to 2003, world number 1.
2. What was the one top highlight of your career?
Winning my first World Open in my mum’s birthplace of Scotland in 2000, and another was competing in the first Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998.
3. Favorite tournament you played in?
Seattle (USA) & Egypt…I loved the tournaments, the places, and the people.
4. Favorite memory from the tour?
Karaoke in Japan and Hong Kong!
5. Where are you from originally?
Melbourne, Australia
6. Where do you live now?
Auckland, New Zealand
7. What are you doing now?
After retiring at the beginning of 2004 I took a job with Head Rackets for 7 years and then another sports company selling swim products for 7 years alongside squash coaching. For the past 5 years coaching in Auckland at Eden Epsom has been my full time role.
8. Do you still play?
No I don’t play, but I still drill with my students from time to time if my body lets me!
9. A former or current player you admire that might surprise people?
Elijah Thomas, world ranked #103. I coached him technically from a young age. He has a great work ethic and I hope he does well on the world circuit in the coming years 🙏
10. A coach of any era you admire?
Judith Fitz-Gerald, mum to Sarah Fitz-Gerald, was my first coach. I will be forever thankful to the beautiful Judy Fitz. A squash technician who I’ve modelled my own teachings from. Judy coached hundreds if not thousands of players across the Victoria region in Australia – One Word – LEGEND.
11. Advice to an aspiring Pro?
My advice to any aspiring pro is to train your mind as hard as you train your body, invest in good shoes and a good podiatrist, have regular massages and a good chiropractor!
12. Best general squash advice?
My best general advice is to stay loyal to your support network and stay grounded. When the going gets tough don’t give in – you never want to have regrets so always put in 100%.
