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Marsa Open Squash Tournament - 25/09/10
(Part of the Maltese Islands Squash Challenge Series*)
DATE:
Saturday 25th September 2010
Event ‘C’
Starting at 11.00
Event ‘A’
Starting at 12.00
Event ‘B’
Starting at 13.00
Final round scheduled to start at approximately 17.00
VENUE:
Marsa Sports Club
CATEGORIES:
‘A’ Event Max 16 players – Min 8
Division 1-3 players or appropriate standard
‘B’ Event. Max 16 players – Min 8
Division 4-7 players or appropriate standard
‘C’ Event Max 16 players – Min 8
Any other player
Please contact
CARL
if you have any doubt as to which category to
enter!
Players may only enter one category
MATCHES:
All matches will be played as best of 5 games, under the rules of the
WSF and using PAR-TO-11 scoring!
Each player will play (where possible) a minimum of 3 matches
ENTRIES:
All entries must be sent to:
CARL or call Carl Camilleri on 79032032
ENTRY FEE:
Marsa Squash Section members 8 Euro
Non Marsa members 14 Euro
50% discount for under 19 players
ORGANISER:
Marsa Sports Club Squash Section / Malta Squash Academy
CLOSING DATE:
12.00 O’CLOCK Monday 20th September
*Maltese Islands Squash Challenge Series 2nd Event Saturday 23rd
October – Kempinski Hotel - Gozo
Marsa Squash Section in Poland - 08/09/10
A squash team from the Marsa Sports Club will be visiting
Poland from 8 to 12 September to take part in a series of team matches
as well as the Krakow Open Squash tournament 2010.
The team from Marsa comprises national team player Carl Camilleri,
ex-national team player Sue Aquilina, Maltese junior champion Colette
Sultana, and a selection of players from the various Marsa Sports Club
squash leagues.
The idea is to allow players of all standards and ages to take part in
an overseas tour. All the players have taken part in three months hard
preparation for this trip and it is vital for local squash that these
players get the chance to take part and compete in such overseas
events. This not only maintains the interest but also helps develop
squash in Malta further.
A ‘squash and social tour’ is also an important part of these trips –
besides the tough squash programme, time is set aside for visiting the
area. When not competing, the team from Marsa will be visiting the
Wieliczka Salt Mines (which reach a depth of 327 metres and are over
300 km in total length), and will also pay a visit and have time to
reflect at the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz-Birkenau. Both places are
on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Squash has only been played in Poland for around 10 years, but the
standard keeps improving and the team from Marsa can expect tough
matches. The first team match will be on Thursday in the neighbouring
town of Tychy, against a local team.
On Friday, the team from Marsa will face much stiffer opposition
against a team representing Krakow, with Lukasz Nitka at number 1. The
current number 8 in Poland, Nitka was ranked number 2 only two seasons
ago and will be expected to test Marsa number 1 Carl Camilleri to his
limit. Number 2 for Krakow is no stranger to Malta - Dominika Witkowska
was runner-up in this year’s Malta Open and is the current Polish
National ladies champion. Witkowska will play Colette Sultana, Malta’s
leading junior. This will be a tough test for young Sultana and will
clearly show how much determination and will-power the youngster has
when facing superior opposition.
On Saturday, the Krakow Squash Open will take place, with all the
Maltese players competing in the ‘A’ or the ‘B’ events against players
from Krakow, Tychy, Warsaw and other parts of Poland.
Squash is growing at an impressive rate in Poland, and many new
business opportunities are evolving through the ‘squash market’. This
trip to Krakow will be an ideal opportunity to promote the Maltese
Islands. The organisers are grateful for the support given by Malta
Enterprise, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, The Maltese Tourism
Authority and Savina Gozo.
As part of their preparation, the team representing Marsa will be
playing challenge matches at the Marsa Sports Club on Sunday 5rh
September from 9.30am to noon. Spectators are welcome to attend.
Marsa Squash Open Tournament - 12/06/10
Our friends from Newcastle (the ‘OIDS’) will be visiting Malta
again and we will be holding the Marsa Squash Open during their stay on
Saturday 12th June.
There will be 3 events, including a junior
event for juniors aged 13 and under.
Entries close on Sunday 6th June OR when
the various categories are full!
As usual there will be an after-event BBQ
– a night not to miss – and following the BBQ
there will be England vs USA on the big screen in the Marsa gardens.
For more info / to enter contact Paul Lake.
MSC Squash Section trip to Newcastle - 11/12/09
When a group of squash players who come every year to play at
our club in summer all the way from Newcastle, invited us to go to
their club to play squash, we didn't think twice about going. A week
later, nine members of the Squash Section, had booked a flight to
Newcastle. Although we were looking forward to this trip, we were not
expecting such a warm welcome from the Geordies. They did everything
they could do so that we made the most of our time in Newcastle.
The goal of our trip was to play squash with local players, socialise
and have good time - something which I must say we all did! We had the
opportunity to play squash every day and a tournament was organised
especially for us with the participation of local players. The
atmosphere was great and everybody enjoyed their games.
We were also taken sightseeing around Newcastle, where we
visited the angel of the North, the millennium bridge and the landmark
of Newcastle - the Tyne Bridge.
Last but not least, we couldn't resist shopping downtown and for the
few die hards, there was time to go clubbing as well as the opportunity
to go and watch a premier league game - a great experience.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Paul Lake who took care
of all the organisation of this truly fantastic experience, and Dave
Watson from the Northern squash club, for the great hospitality shown
to us in Newcastle. Whilst trusting that this will not be the last time
we visited Geordie-land, we are looking forward to welcoming them back
here in "sunny Malta" in June.
Marsa Sports Club Squash Section in Newcastle-upon-Tyne - 11/12/09
The coming weekend will see a team of 10 squash players from
the Squash Section of the Marsa Sports Club taking part in a challenge
team match in Newcastle followed by an individual knock-out
competition.
The team includes past and present national squash team players as well
as a handful of players from the lower divisions, most of them taking
part in their first overseas squash event.
The event, to be held at the Northern Squash Club, Newcastle, will see
the players from Marsa playing a series of 6 matches in 3 days.
The first team match – shortly after arrival in Newcastle on Friday
evening – will give the players a chance to get accustomed to the
courts and atmosphere at the club. An evening reception is then planned
where the guests from Marsa will be formally introduced to the members
and committee from the Northern Squash Club.
The youngest member of the team - young Colette Sultana - will be
playing an exhibition challenge match against Samantha Ward. This will
be a tough test for the Maltese star as Ward was the recent winner of
this year’s North of England junior open under 17 event.
On Saturday afternoon the team will be visiting Newcastle city centre
and will go to watch a premiership football match. Saturday evening
sees the second of the team matches taking place.
On Sunday all competitors will be taking part in the Northern Squash
Club Tournament, with all players playing four matches throughout the
day.
Marsa Squash Doubles Tournament - 07/08/09
Eight teams, all consisting of experienced players, took part
in this year's doubles tournament which resulted in one of the most
entertaining tournaments we had this year. The age range spanned from
14 to 60 year old players. This clearly showed that squash is not just
about running but more about the movement on court and shot precision.
There were also 2 married couples taking part (one of them reached the
final) as well as a father and his son.
The eight teams were divided into 2 groups and the teams who reached
the semi finals were, Stuart Marsh/Arthur Castillo, Steve/Johanna
Rizzo, Robert Sultana/Nigel Dunkerley and Karl G Orr/Mark Lupi. Two
hard fought games that saw Steve/Johanna Rizzo and Karl G Orr/Mark Lupi
to the final. The latter won the final with a score of 2-0.
Rules Afternoon at the Marsa Sports Club - 25/04/09
The rules of the game serve two main purposes:
- To enable a fair & correct result with both players playing according to the rules
- To protect both players from any form of injury – keeping the game safe for both players
There will be a Rules afternoon at the Marsa Sports Club on Saturday 25th April from 14.00 - 17.00
The session will include:
- Match rules (warm-up – rest between games – etc)
- service & return
- lets & strokes
- interference
- playing the body
- safe / excessive swing
- crowding
- correct movement
- & how the referee reaches a decision
The session will end with a demonstration match where players attending will get a chance to test their working knowledge of the rules.
Cost per person:
Marsa Squash section members on advance registration (before Thursday 23rd April at 12.00) €1.00
Non-members & registration after Thursday 23rd April at 12.00 €3.00
Max 20 participants.
To register send an email to PAUL or call on 7900 3053
Junior Squash Festival at the Marsa Sports Club - 11/04/09
A day for Juniors aged between 7 and 11 years, who have never
played squash before is being organised at the Marsa Sports Club on the
11th April 2009 between 1000 and 1600. Fun and Games will be
included!
More info can be found on this downloadable
poster (PDF) or else contact Paul
directly.
Marsa Squash Day at the Marsa Sports Club
The Marsa Squash Section will once again be
opening its doors in support of World Squash Day (WSD) which this year
will be celebrated around the world on Saturday 14th March 2009.
This year WSD will be also know as 'Squash for 2016 Day' to support the
bid to include squash in the 2016 Olympic Games.
Events at the Marsa Sports Club will include a 'come
along and have a go' session for adults and children (aged
7 to 12) from 09.00-12.00 and
the popular 'handicap squash
tournament' from 13.00 onwards.
The junior sessions will include fun activities & games
revolving around the ABCs of sport (Agility. Balance. Control).
Juniors will have the chance to test their sporting skills and be
taught some of the basics of squash.
The adult sessions will include lessons with Academy coach Paul Lake,
information on the rules, warming-up, stretching, and fitness for
squash… just about everything you need to know about squash and more!
The morning will be divided into four 45 minute sessions
and is open to players of all ages.
These sessions are to introduce new players to squash, show the basics
of the game, introduce the most important rules and basically to give
people a chance to '
'.
Rackets and balls will be provided free of charge.
All that is required is normal sports clothing and non-marking indoor
sports shoes.
This is a great oppoutunity to introduce your family, friends or
colleagues to squash!
Advanced registration is not required – but following last
year's high demand it is advisable!
The popular handicap tournament gives lower ranked players the chance
to compete on even terms with players of a much higher standard and is
open to players of all standards.
The tournament starts at 13.00 and is
expected to end around 18.00.
Players of all ability levels are welcome to join in.
Further information regarding both events can be obtained by contacting
the Marsa Squash section committee
or Academy coach Paul Lake on 7900 3053.
Ladies only Squash Afternoon at the Marsa Sports Club
Saturday 6th December from 14.00 – 18.00.
Matches and training for ‘B’ & ‘C’ grade players (For players
that have never taken part in an ‘A’ event & for players with
little or no tournament experience). You can contact: Gail Dunkerley or
Paul Lake on 7900 3053 for further details.
Men’s only Squash Afternoon at the Marsa Sports Club
Saturday 17th January from 14.00 – 18.00.
Matches and training for ‘B’ & ‘C’ grade players. (For players
that have never taken part in an ‘A’ event & for players with
little or no tournament experience). Contact: Paul or
on 7900 3053 for further details.
Free Squash Lessons at Marsa!
3 fantastic offers to get your squash year 2009
off to a great start are available from the Marsa Squash Section.
All new squash section members that join before the end of 2008 will
receive 2 complimentary squash lessons.
All new entrants that join the Marsa Squash Section Leagues before the
end of 2008 will receive 2 complimentary squash lessons.
At Marsa 2 + 2 = 6!
If you want to get your squash year off to a great start, join the
Marsa Squash Section and take part in the squash leagues before the end
of 2008 and receive 6 complimentary squash lessons.
All lessons are with Squash Academy professional coach Paul Lake.
'Tecnifibre' Marsa PAR-11 Squash Open 2008- 11/10/08
36 players took part in the recent 'Tecnifibre Marsa PAR-11
Squash Open' held at the Marsa sports club. The participants played in
3 separate categories giving players from beginners to national team
players the chance to take part.
The tournament was also the first in Malta to be held using the new
official ESF PAR 11 scoring.
In the mixed 'A' event Mark Lupi, the number one seed, progressed
comfortably to the final but had to show his expertise in the
semi-final against Joanna Rizzo.
Martin Mallia reached the final after a good entertaining match against
Theresa Brousson.
Mallia did his utmost and with his "never-give-up" attitude fought
until the very last point…alas for him, Lupi's aggressive and attacking
style of play proved too much with Lupi winning in 3 close fought games.
Theresa Brousson and Joanna Rizzo finished third and fourth
respectively. This tournament was the last chance for both to gain
valuable match practice before leaving for Monaco to take part in the
small nations games.
The mixed 'B' was won by Charles Mifsud. In the final Mifsud was up
against Sandro Zammit who confirmed his present run in the leagues with
yet another good all-round display. Both players contributed to an
exciting final between two quick players that worked really hard all
around the court.
The mixed 'C' event C saw 2 new players to the club taking part in
their first Marsa tournament, Kate Borg and Patrick Abela. The new 'C'
event also provided the chance for some youngsters to gain valuable
tournament experience using PAR 11, the official scoring for all
European junior events.
Borg & Abela produced good solid performances to reach the
final with Kate Borg edging out Abela in 3 close games.
Tournament organiser Carl Camilleri from the Marsa Squash section
thanks the main sponsor 'Tecnifibre' for providing the prizes and all
players for contributing to an exciting and entertaining tournament.
From right, Patrick Abela (runner-up 'C'). Kate Borg (winner
'C') Martin Mallia (runner-up 'A'), Mark Lupi (winner 'A') Charles
Mifsud (winner 'B') Sandro Zammit (runner-up 'B').
SCORING CHANGES - SQUASH GOES 'PAR-TO-11'- 11/09/08
In May of this year, after many months of debate, both the ESF
(European Squash Federation) and WISPA (Women's International Squash
Players Association) voted to change the scoring system for squash to
'PAR-TO-11', the same scoring system used by the PSA (Professional
Squash Association) since 2004.
The WSF (World Squash Federation) has been studying 'PAR-TO-11' since
2007, and is expected to officially adopt it at their Annual General
Meeting in October of 2008 making 'PAR-TO-11' the officially world-wide
recognised scoring system.
Past criticism from International Olympic Committee members, who
described traditional squash scoring systems as 'confusing and
difficult for spectators to follow', have obviously been listened to by
the world's major squash associations and it is hoped that the move to
'PAR-to-11' will help squash into the Olympic games in 2016.
'PAR-TO-11' – (previously
known as 'American scoring')
'PAR' stands for 'point-a-rally'.
In other words, whoever wins the rally gets the point, regardless of
who is serving.
'TO-11' means that games are played until
one player reaches 11 points.
When players are tied at 10-10, 'PAR-TO-11' requires that the winning
player wins by two points.
So when a game is tied at 10-10, it continues until one player is clear
by two points (e.g. 15-13 / 21-19 etc)
Trials have shown that 'PAR-TO-11' scoring creates a more exciting game
for players and spectators, and there is a strong desire within squash
to create a simple and consistent scoring system across all levels of
the sport.
All ESF events in the coming season
will use 'PAR-TO-11' scoring and the majority of squash associations
throughout Europe have already changed to this system. It is expected
that as from October 2008 the world governing body (WSF) will also
adapt PAR-TO-11 as the officially recognised scoring system for squash!
A new approach is required for players & coaches if they wish
to successfully adapt to the new scoring system.
It's important that players develop their game, tactics
and mental approach accordingly and feel at ease using the new
'PAR-TO-11' scoring.
Coaches will need to develop their coaching skills and lessons to adapt
to the new style of play.
If you require any information or advice regarding the new scoring
system please feel free to contact Paul.
Local Squash News
Maltese National Team for ENCC 2009 - 1/10/09
The Maltese Ladies National team started out in great style as
they won their way through with flying colours in some great matches
against Isle of Man and Croatia, beating their opponents 3-0 during
both matches.
Theresa Brousson won her match against Vicky Waterason 3 games to Nil
in her typical style. Malta's number 1 player, Annabelle Olivieri
Monroe had no difficulties winning against Laura Smith. Johanna Rizzo
displayed excellent skills against Lucy Hamilton Turner winning 3 games
to nil.
In the afternoon the Ladies had their 2nd Match against Croatia.
Theresa played first beating Paolina Rados 3-0 easily. Annabelle
Olivieri Monroe also beat her opponent Josipa Persun 3-0 with relative
ease. Playing in her 1st match for Malta Colette Sultana, tested her
skills beating her opponent Katarina Mios 3-0.
With these wins the Maltese Ladies have secured their place in the semi
final match on Saturday. On Friday they will be playing another match
against Estonia.
The Men's team had a less encouraging day as they were beaten by the
newcomer team Cyprus 2-1.
Number 2 seed Nasos Karsavas beat Bernard Bugeja 3 games to nil. The
2nd Match saw Bradley Hindle Deguara making his debut for Malta against
the very much quoted Panos Hadiophillippou, beating his opponent 3-1.
With the games tied at 1 all the number 3 seeds were to play for a win.
Mark Lupi was beaten by Marius 3-0. Thus the men lost their 1st match
2-1.
Tomorrow they face the winners of last year's tournament Croatia in a
crucial match to make it to the quarter finals.
Top tournament experience for Sultana in Amsterdam - 18/07/09
Colette Sultana continued to gain valuable international
experience and became the first Maltese to take part in the prestigious
Dutch Junior Open.
The Dutch Junior Open is considered to be one of the top junior
tournaments in the world and every year attracts participation from
around 400 of the best junior squash players from around the globe. The
tournament is held at the Frans Otten Stadion in Amsterdam, a complex
housing 21 squash courts.
Sultana, who was taking part in the Under 15 Girls category, was not
expected to challenge for the top positions and was participating to
gauge the level to be reached for next season when she will still be
competing in the same age group.
The Maltese girl lost the first three matches against older opponents
who were Martha Posseger from England (8-11, 2-11, 7-11), Maria Elena
Ubina from USA (6-11, 3-11, 9-11), and Belgian girl Nikita Brant
(10-12, 11-7, 11-2, 10-12, 7-11).
Colette then did very well to beat the other two opponents, both from
Wales, Nia Kenward (11-8, 11-3, 11-4) and Alice Richards (11-4, 11-2,
11-5), to finish 29th overall from 41 participants.
All semi-finalists in this age group were from outside Europe, with Ka
Po Ho and Tze Lok Ho from Hong Kong taking Gold and Bronze
respectively, Laila Omar from Egypt taking Silver, and Malaysian girl
Vanessa Raj finishing fourth.
The Dutch Junior Open completes this preparatory first year of
competing in the Under 15 category for the Maltese junior champion. She
is currently ranked 32nd in Europe in this age group and has excellent
prospects to move further up the European rankings over the next
12-month period.
Sultana will next month be travelling to Halifax, England where she
will be taking part in a Summer Squash Camp under the guidance of Paul
Hornsby, England Squash Level 4 Elite coach. This camp will also
include sessions with Lee Beachill, a former world no. 1 player.
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence and is
receiving support through the MOC Youth Athlete Scheme, Malta Squash
and the Marsa Sports Club. Colette is sponsored by Wilson and coached
by Paul Lake.
Colette Sultana Wins Gold in Spain - 28/06/09
Colette Sultana has achieved another excellent result, winning
the Spanish Junior Open.
Sultana, who only turned fourteen during the tournament, was competing
in the Under 15 girls category, making this feat all the more
impressive with another full year still ahead playing in this age
group.
To claim the title Sultana won all her three matches impressively and
without dropping a single set against local girl Sara Trevino (11-1,
11-3, 11-2), Abby Ingrasia USA (11-4, 11-3, 11-3) and and then beating
Dana Rapisarda, also from the USA, in the final match 11-5, 11-1, 11-7.
While in Spain, Sultana also had the opportunity to meet the top
professional Spanish squash player Borja Golan and to watch him train
and play an exhibition match. Golan, ranked #11 in the world, hails
from Milladoiro, Santiago de Compostela and he regularly trains at the
Squash Club Santiago, the venue of the Spanish Junior Open.
This is the second European ranking tournament that the Maltese junior
champion has now won. This time last year Sultana clinched the Italian
Junior Open title in the Under 13 category.
The Dutch Junior Open in two weeks time will be the next overseas
tournament for Colette and the last one for this European Junior
Circuit 2008/2009 season. This will be a very tough tournament with
many of the top world junior players taking part and will serve as good
preparation and experience for next 12-month season.
In August Sultana will then take part in a Summer Squash Camp in
Halifax, England under the guidance of Paul Hornsby, England Squash
Level 4 Elite coach. This camp will also include sessions with Lee
Beachill, a former world no. 1 player.
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence and is
receiving support through the MOC Youth Athlete Scheme, Malta Squash
and the Marsa Sports Club. Colette is sponsored by Wilson and coached
by Paul Lake.
Colette4Europe Squash Tournament - 18/04/09
A 1-day tournament is being organised at the Marsa Sports Club
Squash Section to raise funds for Colette Sultana's overseas
participation in European Junior Ranking tournaments on Saturday 18th
April 2009. The tournament entry closing date is
Wednesday 15th April 2009 at noon.
For more info kindly download this information poster(pdf).
Great experience for Sultana in Vienna - 10/01/09
Colette Sultana won 2 and lost 2 matches in the Austrian
Junior Open that was held in Vienna 6-8th March She finished in 11th
position from 22 participants, gaining valuable experience in the
process, during this preparatory first year of competing in the Under
15 category
Sultana lost the first match against Michaela Malinova of Slovakia by
the smallest of margins. The Maltese girl won the first two games 11-7,
11-5 but the Slovak managed to tie the match winning the next two games
11-6, 12-10, forcing a final deciding game. This was again tied 10-10
with 2 clear points needed to take the match. Both players had a number
of match points and the match could have easily gone either way before
Malinova clinched it 15-13.
Colette needed to put this close defeat behind her and remain focussed
for her next match against Finnish no. 1 player Katariina Baston. And
she did this very well to take the first game 11-4. But Baston came out
stronger in the second game and was leading 6-1 before the Maltese
player managed to turn it round to win it 11-6. Sultana continued to
play well to win the final game 11-5 and gave no chance to the
dangerous Finnish player to get back into the match.
Her next opponent was Karoline Holinkova from the Czech Republic.
Although Sultana started well to win the first game 11-8, the Czech was
better on the day and won the next three games 11-7 11-9 11-6.
Colette Sultana finished the tournament strongly with a convincing win
against Klaudia Zorgovska. The Maltese girl was too strong for the
Slovak player and dominated the match from start to finish to win 11-2,
11-4, 11-8.
Colette Sultana (right), seen in photo, with Klaudia
Zorgovska, Czech Republic.
The Dutch Junior Open in July will be the next overseas tournament for
Colette and the last one for this European Junior Circuit season. This
will be another tough tournament in preparation for next season, which
runs from August 2009 to July 2010, when Colette will still be
competing in the Under 15 category and hoping to challenge for a top
European ranking position in this age group.
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence and is
receiving support through the MOC Youth Athlete Scheme, Malta Squash
and the Marsa Sports Club. Colette is sponsored by Wilson and coached
by Paul Lake.
Wilson Sponsor Colette Sultana 25/02/09
Wilson Malta, through Amer Sports in Germany, have renewed
their sponsorship agreement with Colette Sultana for another two years.
Wilson have been sponsoring Sultana, Malta’s top junior squash player,
since 2007. During these past couple of years this promising young
athlete has gone from strength to strength, proving herself also at
international level.
Colette Sultana, seen in photo, with Gordon Asciak of Wilson
Malta
Recently, Colette Sultana, who is still only thirteen years old, was
hailed as one of the top three Under-17 athletes in all sports in the
annual National Sporting contest organised by the Sports Writers
Association and the Malta Sports Council. This was in recognition of
her achievements during last year.
In 2008 Sultana won Silver in the Austrian Junior Open and then Gold in
the Italian Junior Open in the Under-13 Girls category, reaching a
top-10 ranking in Europe in this category.
Colette is now competing in the European circuit in the Under-15 age
group. Her next European ranking tournament will be the Austrian Junior
Open that will take place in Vienna between the 6th and 8th March.
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence.
Wilson Racquet Sports is a division of
Chicago-based Wilson Sporting Goods, one of the world's leading
manufacturers of sports equipment and owned by Amer Sports. Wilson
designs, manufactures and distributes sporting goods throughout the
world and focuses on making technologically advanced products which
help players of all levels perform better. Wilson's core sport
categories include: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, Soccer,
Youth Sports, Uniforms/Apparel, Golf, Footwear and Racquet Sports
(Tennis, Racquetball, Squash, Badminton and Platform Tennis). For more
information, visit Wilson online.
Sultana registers excellent progress in Zurich 10/12/08
After competing so successfully in the Under 13 Girls category
and reaching a top 10 ranking in Europe, Colette Sultana has managed to
obtain yet another excellent result in the Swiss Junior Open, her first
international tournament in the Under 15 age group.
In the first round group stage, Sultana was drawn with Anina Zulliger
from Switzerland and Elvira Bedjai from France. In the first match,
Bedjai beat Zulliger 11-2, 11-4, 11-4. In the next match, the younger
Maltese player also managed to win 3-0 against the powerful Swiss girl
11-9, 11-7, 11-3.
The final group match was between the Maltese and the French girl. As
expected, Elvira Bedjai, who is ranked 8th in Europe and more than a
year older, went on to win this one 11-5, 11-5, 12-10. Colette was
close to winning a set against the French champion and it was so
encouraging to note that, despite the age difference, the
thirteen-year-old Maltese junior champion is already not that far off
from the very best Under 15 girls in Europe.
Finishing second in her group, Sultana had another two tough matches
ahead, for positions 5 to 8.
Colette Sultana in action - photo courtesy of Mark Wright
First it was against Emily Jones, ranked 30th in Europe. Jones
demonstrated some excellent technique but Sultana was very impressive
from her side and gave the Welsh girl no chance, beating her in
straight sets 11-8, 11-7, 11-4.
The final match was against Josefine Kraus for 5th and 6th place in the
tournament. Sultana and Kraus had both taken part in the Italian Junior
Open last June. Back then, Kraus was finalist in the Under 15 category
whereas the Maltese junior had won the Under 13 category.
The match was a real cracker, proving how much Colette has improved
over the past six months to bridge the gap between her and the German
player who is a year older.
The first set was close but Kraus managed to take it 11-9. Colette took
the next 11-8 to equal the score but Kraus again took the advantage by
winning the third set 11-4. Kraus looked like taking the next set and
the match but Colette showed great grit and composure to tie the set
and win it 13-11, forcing a deciding fifth set. Both played well in the
final set which was also very close but the German had the edge to win
11-9.
Sixth place in the Swiss Junior Open is a great achievement for the
Maltese player which confirms that she is keeping up the improvement at
European level and really augurs very well for her for the next 18
months. With this result Colette should make a top 40 European ranking
in the Under 15 category. Up to June 2010, Colette Sultana will still
be competing in the Under 15 category and will therefore have plenty of
time to climb up towards the top of the European rankings. Her next
European ranking tournament will be the Austrian Junior Open in March.
Colette Sultana with Anina Zulliger (Switzerland); a win for
Malta in the first round group stage.
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence and is
receiving support through the GO Youth Athlete Scheme, Malta Squash and
the Marsa Sports Club. Colette is sponsored by Wilson and coached by
Paul Lake.
Charity Squash Week Under Way 31/10/08-08/11/08
Over 60 players have so far registered to take squash lessons
during the Angela House Charity Squash Week.
The players include complete beginners, national team players, a school
class, a works group, and a group of school teachers, all playing their
part to support the fund raising activity.
A number of lessons are still available and non-members are welcome at
all venues.
Anyone interested should contact Paul directly on either 7900 3053 or
email Paul.
Angela House, in Guardamangia, is home to
around 50 children aged 3-16 and this year, through various fund
raising activities & donations, they have managed to build a
small sports hall. What they now require is sports equipment!
The Charity Squash Week to raise funds for gym / sports equipment for
Angela House works as follows:
Players can book a lesson(s) with Squash Academy professional coach
Paul Lake and pay a minimum donation of €10 per person per lesson.
100% of all donations collected go to Angela House.
Lessons are available for players of all standards; beginners to
advanced, juniors to seniors, in pairs, small groups or as individual
lessons.
Players can also pre-book a series of lessons giving them an ideal
opportunity to improve their squash and help support this fund raising
activity.
Persons wishing to make any donations – these could also be sports
equipment – are requested to get in touch with Paul.
Thanks go to the Marsa Sports Club for donating all the
courts for free to support this activity.
Marsa member Peter Wirth with coach Paul Lake just before the 1st lesson
Gold for Maltese Ladies in Monaco - 14-15/10/08
The Maltese Ladies National Squash team have struck Gold again
in the European Small Nations Squash Tournament that took place in
Monaco. Since 1991, Malta’s Ladies have now won nine Golds, three
Silvers and one Bronze.
Annabelle Olivier Munroe was playing number one, Theresa Brousson was
playing number two, Johanna Rizzo was playing number three and
13-year-old Colette Sultana was reserve. The team was managed by Liz
Said.
Photo from left to right: Colette Sultana, Liz Said, Theresa
Brousson, Johanna Rizzo, Annabelle Olivieri Munroe
On Wednesday 14th October, Malta played Monaco. Johanna Rizzo won 3-1
against Anne Baldoni, Theresa Brousson beat Laurence Vada 3-0 and
Annabelle Olivier Munroe played against Dora Camille, beating her 3-0.
On Thursday morning, Malta faced their toughest opponents, Luxembourg.
But once again the Maltese side was victorious with Johanna beating
Francoise Donven 3-0, Theresa also beating her opponent Claudia Mich
3-0, while Annabelle had Sandra Denis at her grasp but unfortunately
lost 3-2 in a very close fifth set.
The final encounter was against Liechtenstein on Thursday afternoon.
Malta secured Gold with straight 3-0 wins by Johanna against Conny
Frick, Theresa against Andrea Risch and Annabelle against Nicole
Rothmund.
The team event was followed by an Individual’s Tournament on Friday and
Saturday which saw Johanna finish 4th, Theresa 3rd and Annabelle take
2nd after a well fought final against winner Sandra Denis of
Luxembourg.
Colette Sultana lost the first match 3-2 to Anne Baldoni of Monaco but
then won 3-1 against Laetitia Rodrigues of Monaco and in the final
match beat Conny Frick of Liechtenstein 3-1 to win the Plate. This was
an excellent result for the Maltese Junior Champion who was competing
against players seeded 3rd or 4th in their respective country at senior
level.
The National Ladies Squash Team was supported by the Malta Olympic
Committee (MOC) and the Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport (KMS) and sponsored
by Tecnifibre and MaltaSportsOnline.
Charity Squash Week - 1-8/11/08
Angela House, in Guardamangia, is home to around 50 children
aged 3-16 and this year, through various fund raising activities
& donations, they have managed to build a small sports hall.
What they now require is sports equipment!
A Charity Squash Week to raise funds for gym / sports equipment for the
same orphanage will be held from Saturday 1st – Saturday
8th November.
The squash week works as follows:
- Players can book a lesson(s) with Squash Academy professional coach Paul Lake and pay a minimum donation of €10 for each lesson. 100% of all donations collected go to Angela House.
- Lessons are available for players of all standards; beginners to advanced, juniors to seniors and also in pairs, small groups or as individual lessons.
- Players can also pre-book a series of lessons giving them an ideal opportunity to improve their squash and help support the fund raising activity.
- Lessons are available every day during the squash week and will be divided between the Marsa Sports Club & the National Pool Complex.
Persons wishing to make any donations – these could also be sports equipment – are also requested to get in touch with Paul.
Malta Women National Squash in Monaco - 15/10/08
The Malta Women National squash team will be participating in
the European Small Nations Squash Tournament in Monaco from the 15th
October till the 18th October. This event is held every year.
Six countries, Cyprus, Monaco, Malta, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein and
Cyprus take it in turns to organise the tournament.
The Women’s National Team, which this year is being sponsored by the
Maltese Olympic Committee and Malta Sports Online, is made up of
Annabelle Olivieri Munro, Theresa Brousson, Johanna Rizzo, Colette
Sultana and Liz Said. Colette, who will be forming part of the National
Team for the first time is Malta’s top junior and she has already won
bronze, silver and gold in the three European tournaments in which she
has participated. She is currently ranked 37th in Europe in the under
15 girls’ category.
The Ladies Team, Malta National Squash Team 2008
Chris Stahl Wins Gold in Sweden - 09/08
Chris Stahl does it again! After managing the runner up
position, in the over-65 Dunlop British Open Squash
Championships 2006 in Nottingham, Chris Stahl who was
the Manager of the English squash team from 1978-1991 and is currently
the director of the European Squash Federation has won the gold medal
in the The European Masters Games (EMG) 2008
in squash in the over-65 category.
The event took place in the first week of September in the Swedish city
of Malmö. During this week both sportsmen and sportswomen performed
equally competitively and their enthusiasm and passion for the sport
were the order of the day. More than 100 participants from 50 different
countries participated in over 25 different sport activities and
athletes older than 35, had the opportunity to compete with different
people coming from all parts of Europe.
Such events give rise and promote cultural, tactic and technique
sharing as different people with different exposure to the sport have
the opportunity to meet and share the spirit of learning from each
other.
During the two days of squash there were different age groups taking
part in different competitions. All matches were played to 9 points
normal scoring best of five games and according to the rules of the
WSF. Chris Stahl took part in the over 65 category and won all his
matches comfortably to reach the top podium position and come back to
Malta with the gold medal. In this Masters competition one can admire
the skills and tactics shown by the competitors which are nothing short
of brilliant.
The next Masters Games in Europe will be in Lignano, Italy in 2011. We
wish to congratulate Chris once again and hope to see him in Lignano to
defend his title.
Chris Stahl, Director of the European Squash Federation
Colette Sultana Wins Gold in Italy - 13-15/06/08
Colette Sultana has obtained a historic result for Maltese
squash by winning the Italian Junior Open in the Under 13 Girls
category. The tournament was held between 13th and 15th June at the
Italian national squash centre in Riccione.
Colette Sultana seen above, at Riccione
To claim the title Sultana won all her three matches impressively and
without dropping a single set against the Italian girl Laura Cibiroli,
Melissa Mader from Austria and then beating Spaniard Ksenia
Pavliouchenkova in the final match.
The Gold in the Italian Open completes an excellent sequence of results
in Europe for the Maltese junior champion following the Silver obtained
in the Austrian Junior Open last March and Bronze in the Swiss Junior
Open in December.
Last month the 12-year old not only managed to retain the Maltese
Juniors title but also won the plate and finished fifth overall in the
main Ladies event of the Malta Open. Although still very young, Colette
Sultana has been called to form part of the selection process for the
National Team which will be preparing for the European Small Nations
Games Tournament in Monaco in October.
Sultana is currently ranked 11th in Europe in the Under 13 Girls
category. The Italian Junior Open title will now move her to a top 10
European ranking position.
Colette Sultana, winner of the tournament, seen at the center
Colette Sultana is a member of the MOC Centre of Excellence and is
receiving support through the GO Youth Athlete Scheme. Worth mentioning
also Paul Lake’s great contribution to Colette’s success as her coach,
together with the support of Malta Squash, Marsa Sports Club and Wilson.
International Squash News
El Sherbini Wins Historic World Title In Chennai - 02/08/09
Nour El Sherbini made history today in Chennai, India, when
she won the women's title in the World Junior (U19) Squash
Championships to become the sport's youngest ever world champion - at
the age of just 13!
Seeded only to reach the last sixteen, the Egyptian schoolgirl from
Alexandria despatched the sixth seed, the No2 seed Heba El Torky and
then the eighth seed to reach the final where she faced fourth seed
Nour El Tayeb - her second higher-ranked Egyptian opponent.
Undaunted by the historic opportunity that beckoned, El Sherbini
recovered from a game down to beat El Tayeb 5-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-5 in
31 minutes to claim the title.
"I'm so happy," the new champion said after her unique triumph - in
which she was the lowest-seeded player ever to win the world junior
crown.
"After losing the first, I remembered how I came back when I was down
against Heba, and that gave me the belief I could do it again. I kept
telling myself I could do it, and I did!"
Incredibly, El Sherbini, who celebrates her 14th birthday in November,
will have the chance to defend her title on five further occasions -
with the prospect of recording a further piece of squash history by
becoming the first player to win a world junior title more than twice!
Mohamed El Shorbagy made it a notable Egyptian double when he
successfully defended his men's title - on the first occasion that a
world junior title has been contested annually. The 18-year-old
favourite from Alexandria defeated second-seeded Malaysian Ivan Yuen
11-9, 12-10, 11-2 in 36 minutes.
Squashing all over the world on 2016 day - 23/05/09
The world of squash is uniting to support the sport's bid for
inclusion in the 2016 Olympic programme with a massive worldwide
festival on Saturday May 23rd. Every
squash club on the planet is being urged to throw open its doors to
promote the sport and help the Olympic bid.
Squash 2016 Bid Team Member and former world champion Peter Nicol said:
"Our ultimate aim is for every club in the world to open their doors on
this one special day, to show people what a fantastic sport we have, to
get media and personalities involved, and encourage new participants to
take up the game."
If you have any suggestions, ideas, proposals what you would like to
see taking place at Marsa on May 23rd contact Paul on 79003053 or Email.
Please submit your ideas before May 1st.
Tecnifibre British Junior open 2009 - 06/01/09
Egypt clinched six of the eight titles in the
British Junior Open for the fifth time since 2001 ...
Egypt clinched six of the eight titles in the British Junior Open
Squash Championships for the fifth time since 2001 - with men's U19
champion Mohamed El Shorbagy winning his fourth title in a row in the
world's most prestigious junior squash event in the English city of
Sheffield.
Top seed El Shorbagy, who began his
unbeaten run in the event in January 2006, conquered five opponents on
his way to the Men's U19 final where he faced Malaysian Ivan Yuen, a
5/8 seed.
But the UK-based 17-year-old from Alexandria, the reigning world junior
champion, needed only 34 minutes to retain his title, beating
18-year-old Yuen 11-8, 11-7, 13-11 to
claim the prestigious Drysdale Cup.
The women's U19 title returned to Malaysia for the first time since
1999 (when it was won by the reigning World Open champion Nicol David)
after top seed Low Wee Wern beat India's 3/4 seed Dipika
Pallikal 11-2, 11-8, 8-11, 11-8. The triumph marks the
maiden British Junior Open success for the 18-year-old Asian Junior
champion from Penang.
Egyptian favourite Amr Khaled Khalifa
scored his first success in the Men's U17 event with an 11-5, 11-3,
14-12 victory in the final over Danish Atlas Khan,
the second seed from Pakistan. It was the 16-year-old from Cairo's
second Sheffield success after winning the U15 crown in 2007.
The top-seeded Egyptian also prevailed in the women's event where Nour
El Tayeb added the U17 title to U15 and U13 triumphs she
achieved in previous visits to Yorkshire. In one of three all-Egyptian
finals, the 15-year-old from Cairo defeated Nouran El Torky, a 3/4
seed, 12-10, 11-8, 11-6.
Mahesh Mangaonkar, a 3/4 seed, crowned
India's best ever performance in the championships by winning the Men's
U15 title. India boasted three finalists for the first time - but
Mangaonkar was the only winner as the 14-year-old from Mumbai beat the
hosts' Oliver Holland 11-5, 7-11, 11-7, 12-10 in 40 minutes. It was a
disappointing outcome for Holland, the second seed from Nottingham, who
was celebrating England's first finalist for three years.
The only upset of the day came in the Women's U15 event when second
seed Nour El Sherbeny battled to an 11-6,
11-6, 10-12, 4-11, 11-4 win over fellow Egyptian Kanzy
Emad El-Defrawy, the favourite. The success marked El
Sherbeny's third title in a row in Sheffield after winning the U13
trophy in 2007 and 2008.
Egypt cleaned up in the U13 events - 9/16 seed Amr Aboul
Souad beating India's 5/8 seed Kush Kumar 11-8, 7-11,
9-11, 11-9, 11-7 in the men's final and favourite Yathreb Adel
overcoming compatriot Salma Hani 11-7, 11-3, 8-11, 11-8 in the women's
climax. Both players were celebrating their maiden success in the event.
Longest Recorded Squash Match - 17/12/08
Fourth seed Shawn Delierre overcame top-seeded fellow Canadian
Shahier Razik to reach the final of the Baltimore Cup at the Baltimore
Country Club in Baltimore, USA, in a 150-minute marathon which is the
longest-recorded squash match in history since the scoring system went
to PAR (point-a-rally).
Shawn Delierre
Razik, the world No22 from Toronto, took a two-game lead, then had three match balls in the fourth game before Delierre, from Montreal, eventually clinched his historic 9-11, 8-11, 11-7, 13-11, 11-5 victory after two hours and 30 minutes!
The longest recorded match in the sport took place in 1983 - in the era of 'hand-in-hand-out' scoring - when legendary Pakistani Jahangir Khan beat Egyptian Gamal Awad 9-10, 9-5, 9-7, 9-2 in the 166-minute Chichester Festival final in England.
World Squash Federation - Newly Elected President - 20/10/08
Mr N Ramachandran has become the first Indian President of the
World Squash Federation after being elected to the position at the
Federation's 38th Annual General Meeting in Manchester.
Earlier, in one of the most controversial issues handled at an AGM in
recent years, the delegates voted overwhelmingly to adopt a new
universal 'Point A Rally' scoring system for Squash, to 11 points per
game - as is currently the case in the professional game for both men
and women. The sport's new official scoring system will come into
effect from 1 April 2009.
The subject had earlier caused considerable debate, with delegates
calling for the Federation to show leadership - particularly in view of
the sport's Olympic aspirations - to move to the scoring system which
was not only enhancing the appeal of elite squash, but had already been
universally adopted in a number of countries around the world.
In elections for the three Vice Presidents which followed, Heather
Deayton (Hong Kong) and Gerard DeCourcy (New Zealand) retained their
positions on the board, while Chris Stahl (Marsa Squash member)took the
third position.
from left: Mr. C. Stahl, Ms. H. Deayton, Mr. N. Ramachandran
and Mr. G. DeCourcy