Squash was once a popular choice for sport particularly in the 80’s and 90’s with many taking to courts across the country to try the game. It was during this time Australia shone on the local and International stage, producing numerous World Champions.
At its peak it is estimated more than million Australians participated in the sport however the last year 25 years has seen squash courts across the country disappear and replaced with gyms or pulled down for development. As a result, squash is no longer in 20 most played sports in the Country, however with the inclusion of the sport in the 2028 Olympics, James Ethan is hopeful squash will make a resurgence.
For local James Ethan, squash became his lifelong passion the moment he picked up a racket for the first time at 17 years old. James was determined to master the game, practicing hour after hour and taking on the more experienced players in the Club until he could beat them. By the time he was 22, James achieved ‘A’ grade status and by the time he was 25, he had achieved State grade level. Squash had become his life, he trained six days a week: running, gym, squash practice and coaching.
At the peak of his playing career, James reached a World Ranking of 250 travelling around the country playing in tournaments. However, his real dream was to own squash courts and to teach others the love of the game and to train the next generation of Australian and World Champion Squash Courts.
James ran the only squash courts in the Hills Local Government Area at Baulkham Hills until recently when the building was demolished leaving Hills Squash without a home. However, since then Hills Squash has found a new home at Dural Recreational Centre, returning three forgotten, damaged and unused courts to their former glory and creating opportunities for residents to play squash locally again.
When you speak with James, his love of the game is evident as he tells you about his own successful squash career including writing a book, coaching up and coming Australian Champions and why everyone should give squash a go, regardless of ability. James will tell you how fun the game is especially when you play with family and friends as well as the health benefits including burning calories, increasing aerobic fitness, improving flexibility, building strength and power, and of course improving the hand-eye coordination. And yes, for the beginners, there is a slightly bigger rubber ball to play the game with!
If you are looking for a good work out or a social activity or simply haven’t played in years, then why not pick up a racket and give squash a go!
For more information on Hills Squash or to book a court go to www.hillssquash.com.au
