Representatives from around the country congregated in New York City, September 28-30, for the inaugural US Squash Local Association Conference. Hosted in conjunction with the 2007 U.S. Open Squash Championship, the leaders of the associations met to discuss the issues they face on the local level as well as how to work collaboratively with the national association. Following a welcome dinner on Friday night, the attendees convened on Saturday for an all-day educational session moderated by Bob Burton, former President of the Southeastern Association and recently appointed Chairperson of the new Local Association Committee. Along with topical discussions on many aspects of the sport, the association leaders were treated to special presentations given by RailStation administrator Mike Barnet, US Squash Referee Committee Chairperson Sheldon Anderson and Harvard Club Head Squash Professional and US Squash Board Member, Richard Chin. The attendees focused their discussion on issues they considered to be priorities for the committee to tackle. Primary among them were how to increase US Squash membership, methods of increasing access to private and college facilities and the tools and materials needed to collaborate and share best practices. The meeting was followed by a reception at the Printing House Fitness Club, where they were able to enjoy first round action of the U.S. Open.
