Carr helps side end Oxford University’s unbeaten run

HENLEY Squash Club has had a good start to the year.

Henley teams have been playing in the Oxfordshire League’s Division 1 and 4, as well as the Berkshire Masters Division 3

The first team, captained by Harry Carr, have so far played five and won four matches and lie third in Division 1, having won most recently against a previously unbeaten Oxford University side.

Henley 2nds, captained by Steve Dance, have won two and lost two of their matches and lie sixth in Division 4. In their latest match they narrowly lost 3-2 to league leaders Hithercroft 3rds.

The masters team, captained by Richard Little are currently second in the Berkshire Winter Vets Division 3 table having won seven out of their nine matches so far.

This month saw the club’s eight graded internal box league competitions. Each month league players are either promoted, demoted, or stay in the same league dependent on their results.

Numbers playing have recently been boosted by new members joining. Some of the new members have been introduced to the club, and the sport, by the re-introduction of Friday evening “open club nights” for anyone who wants to try and play squash, members, and non-members alike.

On Sunday mornings junior sessions are continuing, introducing, and developing squash skills for three banded age groups, run and supported by two qualified squash coaches — Paul Nieduszynski and Adam Edge.

In addition, following the successful 2023 graded interclub tournament, a 2024 graded tournament will be started in the next few weeks where players of all levels across the club play each other with matches balanced by a handicap system. Meanwhile, the club is actively seeking sponsorship to help grow all levels of squash activities, and it is hoped the recent confirmation that squash will be in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will encourage new members — experienced or beginners — to join.