“If there is anyone out there who’s been injured or endured some physical set back, Squash57 gives you the thrilling opportunity to get back on the court.”
Wheelchair Squash Players got the chance to play on the glass court that will host the Canadian Womens Open, showcasing the inclusivity of the sport.
The game has been adapted for wheelchair users through Squash 57: with players using a bigger racket and a bigger, bouncier ball.
The bounce means there’s time to get to the ball, so expect a lot of fun as you get engrossed in a long rally.
Two of wheelchair players also gave inspirational testimonials about their disability and how Squash57 has encouraged them to take up squash.
Shauna got into squash as a result of wheelchair squash advocate and Federacion Panamericana de Squash Secretary General Lolly Gillen , her first time playing squash being with Canadian Pro Liam Marrison.
Since then, she has gone from strength to strength with the sport and is now a keen participant in squash amongst the multitude of other sports she is a part of.
“I sustained a spinal cord injury when I was 16 years old as a result of a parachuting accident and I’ve used a wheelchair ever since. I’ve participated in just about every adaptive sport imaginable from basketball to skiing to sledge hockey to tennis and I’m currently a very active and competitive wheelchair curler.”
“I thought that I had done it all until Lolly Gillen introduced me to the wonderful world of Squash 57. Squash is a sport I had never tried and never would have dreamed of being able to play. It’s fast paced and exhilarating, and I was hooked from my very first rally.
“I really look forward to being part of Wheelchair Squash57’s growth and development across Canada and in giving others the opportunity to get on court and play a sport that’s easy to learn, fun to play and so addictive!”
Jeff recently took up the sport also after a chance encounter with Lolly Gillen, who is a member of the Squash57 Commission of the World Squash Federation.
“In 2008 I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a grapefruit sized sarcoma in my pelvis and went through five surgeries to remove it.
“I’m missing half of the left side of my pelvis and am permanently paralyzed in my left leg as a result. I now rely on crutches to move around, and I thought my days of playing any kind of aerobic sports were over.”
“With some good fortune in 2023 I met Lolly Gillen who has quickly taken me under her wing to teach me Squash57.
“Finally, I have a sport that gives me an aerobic workout… it is fast paced, and extremely cathartic to feel so active once again.”
If there is anyone out there who’s been injured or endured some physical set back, Squash57 gives you the thrilling opportunity to get back on the court.”
We look forward to seeing the growth in this aspect of the game and supporting squash for all.
