Squash enthusiasts look to raise sport's profile

Pictured (left to right) back row: RCL Squash chairman Steve Salf, Rotherham Leisure Centre duty manager Kallum Wainwright, first team captain Mario Gal, sponsor Adam Yates of Yates Dry Wall Ltd, sponsor Linda Wright of Angelin Care and front: Richard Moxon and veterans captain Trevor Dawson. 184056

Rotherham Leisure Centre will play in the Sheffield League's Division Four, which gets under way next month, and officials are looking to raise the sport's profile.

Several clubs have played the game in the past but participation levels have dwindled but now the aim is to get a foothold in the league while also launching a team in the Veterans League.

Said Rotherham chairman Steve Salf: “I don't think squad ever lost its popularity but we do need to raise squash's profile.

“There is a good squash scene at Rotherham on Fridays and we have seen a re-emergence of the sport at a time when people are looking to get fitter; I have noticed a lot of new players coming along.

“A lot of our members have said that we need to broaden our horizons, which is why we are entering the Sheffield League.

Ed Walker...squash coach at Rotherham Leisure Centre.

“A lot of work has gone into it and we have got some good sponsorship with a lot of help from the Leisure Centre.

“It is a big step up for us and it will be the first time we have played at this level in the open league so we're all really looking forward to it.”

Rotherham get their Division Four fixtures under way on Friday, September 21 when they face Woodfield at home, while the Veterans open their programme at Hallamshire on Sunday, October 14.

Rotherham Leisure Centre can be contacted on 01709 722555.