By Jeannie Blasberg
As I wind down my term as U.S. SQUASH Board Chair I have some random thoughts to impart while I’m still given some space in the magazine—so bear with me. As the first female Chair in the history of the Association, I hope my term has been somewhat emblematic of the corner we have slowly and diligently turned over the past three years toward a more modern organization, and in fact, a more democratic and accessible sport.
Mike McGory had me in stitches a few weekends ago at the National Doubles in Denver with his string of jokes. Most of them started, “An Irishman walked into a bar…” That got me thinking. Our sport has brought so many diverse people and cultures together in the US, if “An Irishman, an Egyptian, and a South African did walk into a bar,” it probably means there is a squash tournament in town!
Such widespread international participation should be catching the eye of the International Olympic Committee. U.S. Squash is supporting the effort to have squash gain entrance into the 2016 Olympic Games. Join the Squash 2016 Facebook group and donate money to the effort. Just think, all those U13’s and U11’s are at the prime age for a potential 2016 Olympic Games.
I mention the U11’s and U13’s out of excitement, not to add another layer of pressure. Parents, please let the kids have fun. Good sportsmanship is the most important life lesson our game can teach. It starts with you, the cues you give and the signals you send. By watching you display good sportsmanship, your children learn the right behavior.
I gave a talk at the intercollegiate Howe Cup a few years ago about the importance of sport in a woman’s life. Competition as a junior or in college can be very intense and unfortunately some young women stop playing prematurely because of it.
Ladies—listen up! It is not all about competition and winning, it is about good health and friendship and holding onto a practice that can sustain you through all the curve balls of life.
If I could give a few words of advice to young players it would be to 1) START DOING YOGA NOW!! I know it looks boring and easy (it isn’t), but it will save you a lot of injuries, ibuprofen, and possibly having your hip joints shaved down when you are my age. 2) If you are the marrying type—and you love squash—find someone who else who does too, or at least someone who will be fully supportive of the time you put into it. Over the past 19 years, squash has added a dimension of fun, banter, and laughter to my marriage. At least marry someone who won’t complain about watching the kids for a few days if you want to play in a tournament!!
Serving as the Chair of U.S. Squash has been a true honor and a tribute to a sport that has improved my life and that of my family so much. This sport attracts great people who want to give back. I have made countless friends among the many squash volunteers I’ve met. I strongly encourage you to jump in with both feet. During this time of growth, U.S. Squash needs your support more than ever.
