Squash BC is excited to share the results of our Squash Starters Program launch. Fueled by the generous support of our Building the Future Fund donors and the incredible grant funding we received from viaSport’s Community Sport Participation Program, Squash Starters Programs were able to introduce more than 300 kids to squash this spring.
Squash Starters Programs are six-week sessions of structured squash programming focused on play-based learning, which supports the development of participants, on and off the squash court! Participants are led by a Safe Sport-compliant program leader, who guides participants towards meeting the Squash BC physical, tactical, and technical competencies for each level of play. Squash Starters Programs can vary from club to club, as the program leader has the freedom to put their own spin on the program contents and delivery – but ALL Squash Starters Programs are focused on safe, fun, and effective athlete development!
Thanks to our delivery partner facilities in five Provincial Zones, 190 kids took part in Squash Starters Programs this spring. When also considering new-participant recruitment events, this program launch introduced more than 300 kids to squash.
In addition to delivering programs, Squash BC developed several key tools and resources as part of the Squash Starters Program launch. These included marketing assets like promotional video/photo content of grassroots squash programs in action, our Squash Starters Program Portal where potential participants can find programs nearby, and a set of participant progress reports that help guide newer coaches in their program design and delivery.
You can learn more about Squash Starters and our other junior program initiatives on our Junior Pathway Page. And if you would like to lead a Squash Starters Program or Event at your facility, contact us today to apply for grant funding, free participant equipment, and more support from Squash BC.