Welcome to the Junior section!!!
A fun club that offers 3-7 year old mini's and 8-16 year old juniors a pathway to a healthier lifestyle.
Sessions are every weekend at Merthyr Leisure Centre:
Friday: 17:00 - 18:30
Saturday: 9:30 - 11:00
Sunday: 9:30 - 10:30 (Mini's) & 10:30 - 11:45 (Juniors)
Sessions run by 4 enthusiastic and experienced, DBS checked, Squash Wales qualified coaches.
"As a junior at Merthyr Squash Club, I can proudly say there is no other club I'd rather be a part of. The coaches and members at Merthyr Squash Club have helped me through so much and I have genuinely improved my skills. I couldn't ask for better coaches. I can also proudly say that the coaches are the most hard-working people I will ever meet. They are constantly there helping everyone to improve week in and week out and I wouldn't be the player I am today if it wasn't for them." - [Ruby Lancaster]
Meet the Coaches!!!!
Dave Cope
What got you started in Squash?
My mate said ‘Do you fancy a game’, and I’ve been playing ever since. Simple!
Why do you like to coach?
It’s so rewarding. I love interacting with the kids, seeing the developing adults improve and the enjoyment they take on court is great.
Favourite shot?
Backhand lob from the front because when it’s played well it’s a guaranteed winner!
Anthony Roberts
What got you started in Squash?
My Dad got me into this wonderful game at the age of 8 and coached me through most of my youth. He took me to his team games which made me the player I am today.
Why do you like to coach?
Coaching has been in the family, so it seems natural for me to follow in my father footsteps and hopefully create a new Joel. With our team of coaches and our fabulous kids it’s in the Makin!
Favourite shot?
The lob as I’m king of it! "Don’t let it bounce"
Lewis Poole
What got you started in Squash?
Watching Dad play at Fairwater Leisure Centre I decided to give it a go in the junior sessions with Julie Clode. It immediately became a passion and I wanted to go further.
Why do you like to coach?
I like watching people improve their skills, both adults and juniors. I want the club to be the best it possibly can be, both in terms of skills, and friendship.
Favourite shot?
Crosscourt lob as it gets me out of trouble.
Mark Palmer
What got you started in Squash?
I’ve been playing since I was about 5 when my Dad took me down to the courts to watch him play. I caught the bug and haven’t stopped since. Now I’m just trying to keep pace with those around me and keep ahead of the up-and-coming juniors!
Why do you like to coach?
I brought my kids down to coaching, was asked if I’d like to join the coaching team and haven’t looked back. I enjoy watching the children make progress, and develop their squash friendships.
Favourite shot?
Easy, anything that wins the rally so I don’t have to run anymore!
Laurence Darcy
What got you started in Squash?
I was very late to the sport and didn’t start until only a few years ago. My Father-in-Law asked me to have a try to help him get his fitness back. I then continued with a friend shortly after catching the bug.
Why do you like to coach?
Having been brought up with my father as a swimming coach, I've seen the benefits of having a dedicated club who absolutely love their sport. I wanted to continue his legacy but in a sport I felt was not in the mainstream.
Favourite shot?
Not so much a shot, but a movement. Getting to a ball that my opponent felt was an outright winner is a real buzz. It’s great to make them know that nowhere on court is safe.
Craig Poole
What got you started in Squash?
There was a bloke I worked with donkey’s years ago who played for Bedwellty Squash Club that got me involved. I went for a few knocks, joined the ladder and have been playing ever since.
Why do you like to coach?
It’s great to see the kids improving all the time. I’ve got to beat them now as I won’t be beating them for long.
Favourite shot?
Early volley to a length because I can’t play a good drop shot!
Aran Edwards
What got you started in Squash?
When I was about 13 my brother wanted to start tennis but didn't want to play in the freezing cold during the winter. My parents found out about squash and I wanted to have a go. Since then I’ve been obsessed with trying to improve.
Why do you like to coach?
I used to coach my siblings and enjoyed supporting them and watching them progress. I've been taught a lot from my coaches and would like to give some of that back. It's fulfilling to feel like you could make a difference.
Favourite shot?
The straight drop from the back of the court. When I manage to fade one in right to the side wall and leave it high up the court there's no better feeling.
As a club each month the coaches pick a player of the month, who they think has improved the most and worked hard over that period of time.
September 2024
October 2024
Interviews with the Juniors
Gathered at the local squash courts, the children of the squash club each have a unique story that binds them to the game. For many, it’s more than just a sport; it’s a sanctuary where they’ve found friendship, resilience, and a sense of achievement.
Luke