A SQUASH club which has been operating in the town for nearly 50 years is to open its doors to invite the community to get involved in the sport.
Capitol Squash, located opposite the mining monument at the end of Duke Street, has been offering sporting facilities for the St Helens community for almost half a century.
To celebrate World Squash Day this Saturday, October 9, the club will be opening its doors to residents to ‘Give Squash a Chance’.
The day will be free of charge and club coaches will be on hand to offer help and to provide basic equipment.
A recent event at Capitol Squash
Chairman Keith Hughes spoke of his pride in the club’s lineage.
Keith said: "We provide first rate facilities for the whole community. The sport is inexpensive, all –weather and quick.
"You can burn 1,000 calories in an hour There are not many sports that can claim that!"
The club hosts three regional teams and has helped to nurture the talents of many world ranked players.
"We are proud of our sporting success," added Keith.
"But we are equally proud that our club is welcoming to players of all standards from total beginner to those people who just want a quick work-out with their mates".
A recent event at Capitol Squash
Chief coach, John Newton added: "Just turn up between one and 3pm.
"If you’ve never even picked up a racket before, don’t worry – we’ll show you the ropes. Just wear comfortable sportswear and come and join us – it could be life changing!"
In the past few weeks the club plated host to a successful Members Exhibition Night when they were joined by world-ranked squash professionals Patrick Rooney, Connor Sheen and Lui Chileshe who all gave their time freely to play exhibition matches and to allow challenges from club members.
Other summer events have included ‘Squash Girls Can’, to encourage teenagers from the community to take up the game.
In the autumn, Capitol’s coaches will also deliver coaching sessions in several St Helens primary schools in an attempt to increase participation among children.
A poster for Saturday's event
One home-grown success has been that of Mia Leahey, one of Capitol’s junior members.
Mia not only plays competitive squash at county level but has recently been adopted as the ‘Happy Face of Women’s Squash Week’ which took place this September.
John added: "We want all members of the St Helens community to consider taking up squash. Squash England and the Queens Club have helped us provide more coaches to allow more children access to this fantastic sport."
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