Nick Matthew bids for 10th title in Manchester
By DONNA HELMER
England Squash has announced that Dunlop will sponsor the 2018 British National Squash Championships in Manchester from 12th to 18th February.
The latest announcement follows a record three-year sponsorship agreement that sees the world’s number one squash brand become the official partner of the England Squash junior circuit, including title sponsor of its three major junior events.
Steve Heatley, Dunlop UK Sales Manager, said: “We are delighted to become the title sponsor of the 2018 British National Squash Championships in Manchester. This latest agreement further develops our relationship with England Squash and is a key part of our strategy to invest in squash at all levels.
“The Dunlop British Junior Open showcased the very best junior talent from around the world and we’re thrilled to sponsor the prestigious British Nationals featuring Britain’s finest athletes.”
Paul Walters, England Squash Commercial Manager and Event Director for this year’s championships, added: “With Dunlop’s career-long brand ambassador Nick Matthew bidding for a record 10th British National title in what is likely to be his last appearance at the event, this year’s championships will be eagerly anticipated by squash enthusiasts around the world.
“We are indebted to Dunlop’s continued support and look forward to working with them in staging another memorable tournament in Manchester.”
Three-time world champion and record nine-time British National champion Nick Matthew, said, “It’s great to see Dunlop continuing to expand their support of squash with their sponsorship of the British National Championships. I’ll be doing my very best as a Dunlop ambassador to win the title for the tenth time in what is always a tough event.”
Alongside the defending champion, leading contenders for the men’s championship will include former title holders James Willstrop and Daryl Selby as well as British Under-23 champion and Welsh No.1 Joel Makin and Greg Lobban of Scotland. Leading challengers for the women’s title will include defending champion Laura Massaro, former title holders Sarah-Jane Perry, Alison Waters and Jenny Duncalf, alongside Welsh No.1 Tesni Evans, World No.15 Emily Whitlock and World No.16 Victoria Lust.
As the longstanding Official Ball Partner of England Squash, Dunlop has enjoyed a close and successful partnership with the national governing body whilst agreements with the Professional Squash Association, the World Squash Federation and other national federations underpins the brand’s commitment to the sport and its market leader position.
England Squash Chief Executive Officer Keir Worth said: “We are delighted to welcome Dunlop as the title sponsor for the British Nationals. The tournament attracts the very best of British talent and this partnership will allow us to stage another great event for players and spectators alike. We are very grateful for Dunlop’s continued support.”
Tickets for the 2018 Dunlop British National Squash Championships can be booked online at www.isportstore.com and by telephone on 0844 8797 949.
Picture courtesy of England Squash