Portraits of National Sports Association

Page 4

Squash Association of Hong Kong, China

Squash traces its origins to early 19th-century Britain and was introduced to Hong Kong early on by expatriates. Once a niche pastime, it has now blossomed into a trendy game and an elite sport of the city—thanks in no small part to the tremendous efforts of the Squash Association of Hong Kong, China (the Association).

A Fast-Paced Sport of Strategy

Squash is an indoor racket sport played in a four-walled court, with straightforward rules. Matches are typically contested between two players who play the ball alternatively under an 11-point scoring system, where points are won when the opponent fails to return the ball. If the score is tied at 10-10, a player must secure two clear points to clinch the game.

The sport is fast-paced, with the ball reaching speeds of up to 200 km per hour. Within the confined court, players must make split-second decisions, combining agile footwork with precision shots to outplay their opponents and gain themselves time and space. Squash demands sharp reflexes, peak physical forms, strategic brilliance and mental resilience—all contributing to the sport’s spectator appeal. Above all, squash is weatherproof, making it a popular year-round fitness and stress-relief option for urbanite.

Decades of Growth and Innovation

Founded on 19 September 1961, the Association has upheld its unwavering commitment to promoting squash for over six decades. Its wide-ranging work includes organising local and international competitions, nurturing emerging talents and elite athletes, as well as certifying coaches and training referees. With a strong focus on youth development, the Association has organised inter-school leagues, junior championships, and school and community outreach programmes over the past years, inspiring new generations to discover the joy and benefits of the sport. All these efforts continue to energise Hong Kong’s squash ecosystem with fresh momentum.

The pandemic had posed unprecedented challenges to the sports industry. And squash, played within enclosed courts, was particularly affected. The Association’s operations were under immense pressure due to restrictions such as social distancing measures and venue closures. Yet, with remarkable agility, it quickly pivoted to digital solutions, launching virtual training sessions and personalised fitness coaching, while expanding outdoor promotional activities. By turning adversity into opportunity, the Association has not only maintained member engagement but also explored new ways to grow the sport.

Hong Kong’s Rise to Squash Stardom

Since squash debuted at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games, the Hong Kong team has steadily built an impressive legacy. The 2002 Busan Asian Games saw the city’s first gold medal in women’s singles, cementing its elite status. At the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, Hong Kong clinched gold in both men’s singles and women’s team events, followed by two silvers and four bronzes at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. Consistently climbing world rankings, Hong Kong players continue to showcase their prowess and potential on the global stage.

As the sport’s leading force, the Association meticulously organises premier events every year, such as the internationally acclaimed Hong Kong Squash Open, the flagship domestic Hong Kong Squash Championships, the regular Hong Kong Squash League, and youth-cultivating tournaments like the Hong Kong Junior Squash Championships and International Junior Squash Open. It also orchestrates local athletes’ participation in overseas PSA (Professional Squash Association) tournaments, supporting athletes in gaining experiences, elevating their skills and strategic game, and expanding their global exposure.

From Grassroots to Glory: The Olympic Dream

The Association recognises that sustained success requires both community engagement and elite development. Over the years, in collaboration with the LCSD and the Hong Kong Sports Institute, it has offered introductory courses at community centres and squash centres across the city, alongside touring programmes and training courses for schools, all designed to introduce the general public and students to squash and broaden the sport’s appeal.

In squash, players fight to dominate the “T-position”, the most strategic spot at the centre of the court. Today, the Association stands at its own “T-position”, strategically preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. It is increasing investment in youth training and elite programmes, while also promoting the emerging variant “Squash 57” to broaden community involvement. With collective support, the Association aims to propel Hong Kong onto the global squash stage, establishing the sport as a defining emblem of the city’s sporting landscape.