Leeds Beckett squash team celebrates as the International Olympic Committee announces the sport is to make it’s debut in the 2028 Los Angeles.
Leeds Beckett player George Cockayne says, “I get goosebumps thinking about it”.
Squash has already been played in multi-sport games such as the Commonwealth Games however, Samuel Parker the club secretary at Leeds Beckett shared “The Olympics is a good opportunity to be broadcasted worldwide”.
It will attract more investment resulting in more exposure through television, radio, and social media. Boosting the participation levels “drumming up some enthusiasm” commented Cockayne.
This will encourage the Government to support national programmes and grassroots initiatives “It gives an opportunity for younger players to have something to aspire to” he said.
Cockayne shared why squash being added to the Olympics will increase supporters.
“It’s a quick sport and really entertaining to watch”. Matches are played between two players where they hit the ball against the front wall before it can hits any other walls. It is played to the best of three or five games, and each game goes up to 11 points. Cockayne said, “It’s such a unique fitness”.
The past years have been tough for the sport, with appeals for it to be part of the Olympics being rejected multiple times. This resulted in decreased participation leading to clubs shutting down, squash courts being unused or turning into other facilities.
Other racquet sports such as tennis and badminton have been in the Olympics for many years and have been a great success. Squash players are hoping for the same impact “I hope it drums up some interest” added Cockayne.
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