England Squash hope Stuart Crawford can be “transformational” after he was revealed as the national governing body’s new national coach.
Crawford, who will take over the helm in September after long-serving coach David Campion stepped aside, will lead the England team and, presumably, the GB team towards the LA Games.
A former professional player and national coach for Scotland, Crawford joins from the University of Pennsylvania. Under his tenure, the men’s team lifted the 2024 College Squash Association national title for the first time in their history and the women’s team achieved a highest national ranking, of second, during the 2023/24 season.
During his time at Scottish Squash, between 2010 and 2016, Scotland emerged as one of the strongest nations in Europe, becoming consistent semi-finalists at the Men’s European Team Championships.
Crawford said: “I look forward to working with some of the best players and coaches in the world, as well as some up-and-coming players who I’m confident can reach this level with the right guidance and support.
“England have always been one of the strongest nations in world squash and the opportunity to lead their talent and performance programme is incredibly exciting and a huge honour.”
Chris Robertson, Head of Performance Operations said: ”Stuart has the knowledge, vision and determination to be an exciting and transformational National Coach for England Squash. His coaching track record is impressive and, with the support of the England Squash staff, players, coaches and wider squash community, I am confident Stuart will lead us to sustained future success.”
Rob Owen, England Squash Olympic Programme Consultant, added: ”I have followed Stuart’s career closely and have seen him flourish as a coach and achieve considerable success wherever he goes.
“He will be an excellent National Coach and has all the qualities needed to inspire both the current generation and future generations of players in England for the foreseeable future.”