Fram Gommendy reports:
Back in May, 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. A few interviews caught my eye in ‘Meet The Pro’: one on Dame Susan Devoy, more recently one of Sarah Fitz-Gerald. It’s short, well-written, and informative. It looks like SquashSite tone me thought.
1. What years did you compete professionally and what was your highest ranking?
A: I joined PSA in 1991 and retired in 2004. I reached my highest world ranking of 14 in 2001 and won 10 PSA world tour titles.
2. Where are you from originally?
A: I was born in Oldham, Greater Manchester, and stayed around that area my whole life until moving to Jersey in 2008 for the Director of Squash position.
3. Where do you live now?
A: I now live in Boston, Massachusetts, and have for the past 7 years.
4. What are you doing now?
A: I coach full time at my own academy, NTA Squash. We have 250 juniors a year go through our program, from seasonal school teams to some of the best juniors in the world.
5. Do you still play?
A: No, I stopped playing mainly because of the worry about injuries. My livelihood is on the court coaching and running my academy…a pulled calf could put me out for weeks and if I don’t coach I don’t get paid 🤣
6. Favorite tournament you played in?
A: The PSA events in front of the pyramids were special, but I would say my fondest memory was the US Open in Boston (Harvard Club) in 1998 when I came through qualifying to reach the semifinals, beating Rodney Eyles first round who at the time was world champion and world #2.
7. A former or current player you admire that might surprise people?
A: I admire all the top professionals, past and present…they are all different people and have achieved success all on a different pathway.
8. A coach of any era you admire?
A: Two coaches…John LeLievre, my first coach as a professional who was one of the best technical coaches in the world! I learned so much from him and he was the one who inspired me to coach. And Malcom Willstrop, who to this day has to be the most successful squash coach ever! He produced two world number ones from nappies! Plus 70+ National Junior Champions.
9. Advice to an aspiring Pro?
A: Firstly you have to work hard! Find a knowledgeable coach who is passionate and consistent (always there for you)…ultimately it’s all about dedication and passion for the game, and that has to come from the player.
10. Best general squash advice
A: For juniors in the USA…enjoy the game, create a pathway with your parents, be passionate about what you are doing.
