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PSA Foundation Spotlight: Squash for Development Programmes
Squash for Development Organisations (SDO’s) are using squash as a vehicle for social change, alongside academic tutoring, nutrition support and much more to help underserved populations around the world.
As the charitable arm of the PSA Tour, the PSA Foundation has partnered with these non-profit programmes and provides resources and support they otherwise might not have.
The PSA Foundation wants every child to have the opportunity to play squash and the option to play on the biggest stages of the PSA Tour, no matter their background.
Over the next couple of months and beyond, the PSA Foundation are highlighting that these SDO’s provide more than just opportunities to play squash, and each organisation utilises the sport to make a positive difference in a number of ways.
They All Play Squash in Different Ways
SDO’s really showcase the variety of innovative ways you can play squash as well as the adaptability of the sport.
Squash Para Todos champions outdoor squash, and is a great example of how accessible the sport can be by taking it outdoors.
Squash Urbano Colombia makes use of its idyllic location, using its local beach for fitness sessions to create some variation away from the squash court.
Squash Sin Limities in Argentina uses sports halls and adapted spaces to provide squash in places where some wouldn’t think it was possible.
Just like their organisation name, squash is without limits.
The Canadian Inclusivity Squash Program (CISP) adapts the game for people with a mental, emotional, or physical disability.
Wheelchair squash players recently got the chance to play on the glass court that is currently hosting the Canadian Women’s Open, with players using a bigger racket and a bigger, bouncier ball (the same one used in Squash57).
More recently, they worked with the Canadian Institute for the Blind to adapt their program to include players who are partially sighted.
Rackets Cubed uses professional facilities such as university facilities and PSA Tour event venues to support the children in their programme.
They recently gave over 40 children the opportunity to play on the Canary Wharf Classic glass court and they also got the chance to hit with World No.10 Joel Makin and World No.1 Mostafa Asal.
These experiences are fundamental in not only engaging the next generation of squash, but also giving them key role models in and outside of the sport.
Calder Community Squash (CCS) utilises rebound nets within their squash sessions, which is a fun and inclusive way to take the sport to different communities that don’t have access to traditional squash courts.
CCS believes squash is a sport that for a long time has been difficult to gain access to, and they are committed to changing that. CSS does a lot of outreach work using portable squash gear, offering a clear pathway to then get involved on at their nearest squash club.
The PSA Foundation are currently fundraising to send the world’s best squash players to visit these programs, to help inspire these children who otherwise would not have access to the role models from the PSA Tour.
They will also be filming a documentary series to raise awareness of the programmes’ amazing work and highlight how vital squash is within these communities.
Any level of monetary support is appreciated. Donations are tax-deductible for donors in the U.S. Email foundation@psawordltour.com for any donation-related queries.
