Squash

The object of the Jersey Squash Rackets Association (“JSRA”) is to promote the game of squash in jersey. To introduce the game to as many people as possible, arrange fixtures, competitions, provide instruction for those wishing to play, coach or referee and take any other initiative calculated to further the interest of squash players in Jersey.

To that end the JSRA has embarked on an ambitious development programme with the appointment in 2004 of David Evans, former world No 3 and British Open Champion, as part time Director of squash. His appointment was made possible by the combined sponsorship of the Jersey Squash Club and Education Sport and Culture. That initial contract has now come to an end and the JSRA is excited to announce a new 2 year programme, sponsored by the Bedell Group which will allow David to concentrate, full time, on the development of squash from grass roots to elite level. At the heart of this development programme is a new, packed calendar of events.

The JSRA continues to receive invaluable support from Education, Sport and Culture and the Jersey Squash Club whose committee, in particular, work tirelessly in the best interests of not only its members but the game of squash in general. Squash is growing world wide and in Jersey and we are determined to raise the sport's profile and players numbers, produce a champion or two and oh yes, beat Guernsey!

History

The JSRA was formed in the mid 1960’s at the time of the building of the first two courts at the Jersey Recreation Grounds. (The first President was Ronald Youngs a master at Victoria College).

These two courts were soon followed by two more and during the 1970’s further courts were built at various venues around the island so that by the early 1980’s there were at least 22 courts in regular use (4 at The Recreation Grounds, 8 at Fort Regent (including 4 glass back courts), 4 at the Lido de France, 2 at St John, 2 at Victoria College and 2 at the Rugby Club as well as some private courts) further courts followed at the Merton Hotel(2) and at Les Quennevais Sports Centre (2). Today 14 courts are in regular use and recent developments include a thriving individual league held at Les Quennevais and renovations to the Victoria College courts.

The annual inter-insular match against Guernsey, which had previously included only a men’s match, was expanded in 1973 with the introduction of Ladies and Men’s B team matches. Further expansion of the event was quick to follow and there are now also Ladies B matches and a Veteran (Over 45) and Vintage (Over 55) matches.