The Canadian Inclusivity Squash Program (CISP), based in Conception Bay South, Canada, is leading the way to improving accessibility for players with disabilities.
A consistent highlight for their program is their Annual Squash Championships, where all the participants are allowed to show off their skills and the progress that they have made. This year was no different, proving a constant source of joy for the 13 players that competed.
To take part in the tournament, the only requirement was that the players had to have a disability. The draw featured men and women of all ages, some with neurodevelopmental and some with sensory disabilities. One player, Rory, competed as a wheelchair athlete and reached the final!
Contesting Rory for the trophy was Rhys, the tournament’s youngest entrant. After a hard fought match it was the latter who was able to clinch the 2024 Inclusive Squash Championship title.
The referees in charge of the games were asked to write down their impressions of the matches. Some of the comments included, ‘excellent sportsmanship’, ‘lots of energy’, ‘amazing match, very close in skill’ and ‘they hugged after the match’.
CISP’s championship has set a shining example for other squash programs, showing that there is great potential for squash to be a game available to everyone. We’ll be watching closely for more milestones and inspiring moments from CISP as they continue to lead the way in inclusive squash!
If you want to learn more about the Canadian Inclusivity Squash Program, click here: https://cbshotshots.com/
