Last updated 16:18, Thursday, 24 July 2008

The fast and furious racket sport of squash is bouncing back in popularity thanks to the thriving junior section of Hexham Squash Club.

Leading the way is 12 year old Simon Graham (right) a pupil at Hexham Middle School, who has followed the club’s coaching programme for the past four years under the guidance of junior coach, Jim Chambers.

As well as regular coaching from Jim and first team captain Andrew Wilkinson, Simon has also developed his competitive match play through the junior county ranking tournaments in Newcastle and has now gained enough experience and court craft to take on (and sometimes beat!) senior members at Hexham’s club night.

He is well on his way to climbing the club league ladder and was delighted last season to be invited to join the men’s third team which competes in the Northumbria League.

During the past year Simon has played in several regional tournaments and has represented Northumbria at inter-county events.

Now nationally ranked by England Squash at number 43 in his age group, he has recently been selected to train with other up and coming juniors from Northumbria, Cumbria and Durham at the Northern Performance Centre.

As local junior teams are dominated by the major squash clubs at Northern (Gosforth), Jesmond and Tynemouth, Simon’s achievements reflect the excellent standard of coaching available in Hexham.

Jim, a Level 2 England Squash coach, is building up a new intake of promising middle school youngsters through taster sessions and weekly coaching at the club.

He notes: “Junior squash has been developed at Hexham for more than 20 years.

“Although very much an individual sport on court, it’s easy for everyone to find their own level.

“The sport can be enjoyed at all ages and the skills acquired are a useful way of providing social opportunities for students starting university or for anyone having to change location.

“ Simon has put in a lot of hard work over the past year and thoroughly deserves his success.”

Simon added: “Squash is huge fun and a great way to keep fit and healthy!

“ Jim, Andrew and other club members have given me lots of support and encouragement and I’m really grateful for their help.”

Situated at Hexham Golf Club, Hexham Squash Club has two courts open all year round.

For more information on junior coaching, contact Jim Chambers on (01434) 633192 or visit the website at www.hexhamsquash.org.