Former world champion to nurture next generation of English players
By ALAN THATCHER and DONNA HELMER
AS NICK MATTHEW approaches his final PSA tournament on home soil in this week’s Allam British Open, England Squash have confirmed an agreement to harness the skills and knowledge he has amassed during his phenomenal career to nurture the next generation of players.
Matthew faces a tough first round draw as he meets Egypt’s world No.5 Tarek Momen at the AirCo Arena in Hull tomorrow.
Now outside the world top 10 for the first time after 110 months, the 37-year-old Yorkshireman is sure to be roared to the rooftops by a passionate home crowd as he bids to do well enough to clinch a place in the PSA World Series Finals in Dubai from June 5-9. Matthew currently holds the final eighth position in the Road To Dubai standings.
He revealed he was relieved to finally make an announcement about his future plans as he reached agreement with England Squash on a long-term coaching, consultancy and ambassadorial role with the national governing body.
The three-time world champion will take on a number of roles with the primary aim of developing current England pros and nurturing players through the England Squash talent pathway.
Matthew is the most successful English squash player of all time, with three Commonwealth Gold titles, three British Open titles, 10 National titles and 127 England caps to his name.
In partnership with the Nick Matthew Academy, the former World No.1 will be on hand for one-to-one individual coaching, mentoring and training sessions with England Squash players, as well as hosting group sessions, assisting at tournaments and attending Aspire coach development days.
Matthew said: “Following retirement from my playing career, my main motivation will be developing and mentoring the next generation of English squash players so I am delighted to be taking up an official role with England Squash. I hope that my knowledge and experience can help England’s young players and that I can also provide inspiration to the champions of the future.”
England Squash CEO Keir Worth said: “Nick is an inspiration to players across the globe, a fantastic role model and ambassador for the game, and we are thrilled to have him on board in a coaching, mentoring and ambassadorial capacity at England Squash.
“It’s a great fit for both Nick and England Squash, and I’m delighted that we can now formally utilise Nick’s experience and expertise in helping to develop our next generation of players.”
National Coach David Campion said: “Nick has achieved so much in the game and has always been willing to give back to the younger players. He too benefited from the established players when he was a young player trying to break through.
“Nick will play a key role in assisting the current crop of players as well as bringing an invaluable wealth of experience that will help cultivate the stars of tomorrow.”
Graphic courtesy of PSA