The prestigious Nottingham Squash Club was once again the venue for the 2019 CSSC Squash Masters Singles Championships and the CSSC Squash 57 (Racketball) Championships. A favoured venue for many CSSC squash events, the club and its staff as ever gave a warm and friendly welcome to the players and guests.

Entrant numbers were down on last year, but we were pleased to welcome 3 new players to the squash tournament. There were a number of our regulars who were unavailable due to injury as at this time of year, most players are at the end of a hard season of squash. All have stated that they will be back next year.

 The O35 and O45s played each other in a round robin. The O55s had sufficient entrants to warrant a round robin with each other and O65s and ladies joined each other in another round robin. Each competition was hard fought and played in the usual sporting and fun-like manner.  The format for both competitions was the same as last year with a best of 3, point a rally first to 11 arrangement ensuring that all entrants played plenty of short matches over the two days

Squash

Mens O35

This year saw Jonathan Simpson a clear winner. Jonathan is new to the event and an A grade player. He did not drop any games during the competition. We are grateful to Jonathan for supporting the event and appreciate him taking time out of his busy playing schedule. The runner up trophy went to Dan Willets. Dan also won all his games except for his match with Jonathan. We look forward to seeing these 2 do battle again in the future, if not at this event, at one of the others in the CSSC calendar.

Mens O45

This  year, the trophy went to Paul Armstrong, last year's runner up. Paul played in the round robin with the O35s but also managed to fit in a match with last year's winner of this event who is now in the O55s.

Ladies O50

Our CSSRA Chairperson Sian Hughes had another great tournament and successfully defended her trophy from last year. The ladies played a round robin format with the men's O65s. Everything depended upon Sian's last match with our Association President, Marian Holmes. Sian emerged with one game up on Marian who is this year's runner up.

Mens O55

The O55s were well represented this year.Kevin Hugh a previous winner of the O35s moved into this category and emerges an outright winner. Although he didn't drop any games in the tournament, he provided all his opponents with a competitive and enjoyable match.The runner up this year was Nigel Williams who we are pleased was able to join us again after taking a break last year. Nigel only dropped games to the winner Kevin and so came quite close this year.

Mens O65

Once again, this year's winner was Richard Kendrick defending his trophy from last year in a round robin with the O65s and ladies O50s. Richard was the outright winner of the group. Rob Shepherd was again runner-up in the O65's - another whisky glass to add to the extensive collection. Well done Rob.

Can nobody split these two up?

Squash 57 (Racketball)                      

Keith Mabey retained his Squash57 title with victories over Micky Gallacher, Fred Sanders & organiser Phill Crane. All the matches were played in a competitive but friendly manner, with Keith coming through undefeated. Runner-up Micky and third placed Fred also picked up victories. Phill picked up the wooden spoon.

Social

Everyone was kept busy for the two days and in addition to the battles on court, a chicken supper and the now infamous Linda Parsley general knowledge quiz accompanied by the requisite amount of friendly banter was enjoyed by all. Feedback from the group indicated that most competitors had a busy and enjoyable experience. endorsing as ever, the equally important social element of this event. Lunch on Friday and Saturday was provided in the form of a cold buffet to allow players to watch the matches whilst eating if they wished.

As ever, the event provided an opportunity for players to combine fitness and fun and to catch up with friends and make new ones. Competitors and organisers were pleased to see Marian Holmes our CSSRA President had entered the event again and introduced a new lady player, Janice Moller to our competition. We were especially pleased to see her once again present the Ladies O50s squash trophy to our Chairperson, Sian Hughes. As usual players made good use of our regular Sports Massage therapist, Graham, to keep everyone fit for their next match.

 Special thanks to regulars Fred Sanders (Racketball) and Richard Kendrick who both played the tournament on their birthday! The players took the opportunity to sing Happy Birthday to the pair at the awards presentation.

Jonathan Simpson	Dan Willets	Paul Armstrong
Sian Hughes	Linda Parsley	Kevin Hugh
Nigel Williams	Richard Kendrick	Rob Shephard
Keith Mabey

Six teams of three men and two ladies made their way this February to Nottingham’s prestigious Squash Club located in “The Park”. HSSRA’s “A” Team had arrived as defending champions and were hoping to make it a “three in a row” storyline - they had also arrived in force with, for the first time, a total of three teams. They would however face stern opposition from last year’s Runners-Up Team “North West”, last year’s Plate Winners DSTL and a newly formed composite team “Allsorts” Captained by Marian Holmes the CSSRA President. All teams would line up on the Friday into two groups of three teams, playing in a Round Robin format. Winners and Runners-Up from each Group would progress into a knockout Semi-Final format on the Saturday whilst third placed teams would compete with each other in the Plate Event Final.

In the first Tie of Group 1 DSTL would play the newcomers “Allsorts”. The Allsorts’ Captain Marian Holmes nearly got their campaign off to a flying start when playing DSTL’s experienced Carol Stone but finally had to capitulate in a long hard fought five game battle. Allsorts Number One player Frazer Richards however was soon to show his class against DSTL’s very able Number One player David Nethercott with Richards winning a fine match 3-1. That was as good as it got for Allsorts with DSTL eventually running out four one winners. The next Tie saw Allsorts returning to court against HASSRA A’s formidable line up. Allsorts Number One player Frazer Richards however was once again in a determined mood and in a fine game of squash defeated HASSRA’s Number One player Jonathan Simpson without dropping a game. The final result however went convincingly to HASSRA four matches to one. The final Tie between HASSRA A and DSTL was hard fought, but eventually brought the defending Champions a winning result however not before DSTL’s number five player Deb Atkinson produced one of her best ever performances by defeating HASSRA’s Captain Sian Hughes in a long hard fought five game battle! Both HASSRA A and DSTL would progress into the semi final whilst Allsorts would compete in the Plate Final.

In Group 2 last year’s Runners-Up, North West faced up to HASSRA’s newly formed “C” Team who unfortunately were one player short owing to a late withdrawal. This was to prove no pushover for North West however and although they took a four nil victory in the end, North West’s Paul Lane and Becky Campbell both had to go to five games before finding victory against Gurjinder Sandhur and Rob Frame. The next Tie saw HASSRA’s B and C Team do battle against each other. Whilst the outcome was a predictable five nil win for the B Team, Micky Gallagher did push Chris Beldon all the way before losing a close battle in their fifth game. The last Tie between North West and HASSRA B was a close encounter and with the match finely balanced at two matches each, the number two players went on court to decide the encounter. At the end of a five set thriller it was North West’s Dan Willets who emerged on top when defeating Chris Beldon. North West and HASSRA B would progress into the Semi Finals and HASSRA C into the Plate Final.

The first Saturday morning Semi Final brought together the HASSRA A and B teams. The B Team’s number four player Ruth Sleigh did start strongly against Keeley Grindle but could not sustain her early form and predictably the A Team was to prove too strong for their valiant opponents winning the Tie five matches to nil. The second Semi Final between North West and DSTL teams was a much closer affair. North West’s Sheena Ferrie got her side off to a good start and played well to defeat her plucky opponent Deb Atkinson three games to one. Things however started to look a little darker for North West when both Paul Lane and Jim Fay both lost tight five game matches to the DSTL players David Nethercott and Carol Stone. With DSTL in the driving seat they wasted no more time when both Stuart Scourfield and Adam Khan both won their matches against Dan Willets and Becky Campbell. HASSRA A and DSTL would progress to the Final and North West and HASSRA B to the third and fourth place Playoff.

The Plate Final appropriately had brought together the two new teams - Allsorts and HASSRA C.

Since HASSRA C had only four players in their Team, Allsorts Captain Marian Holmes had gallantly stepped aside (or was it exhaustion?) to let Janice Muller move up the playing order. Janice did not disappoint and produced a fine game of Squash against her opponent Camella Camm to put her Team one match up. HASSRA’s number three player Rob Frame however soon levelled the Tie by winning a close encounter with Barry Dearlove. The reliable Frazer Richards soon steadied the Allsorts nerves and proved too good for his opponent Gurjinder Sandhur. The outcome of the final match between Allsorts player Sam Farnham and HASSRA’s Micky Gallagher was now crucial to both teams, Sam however held his nerve and came through a tough test with a 3-1 win and so sealed the Plate Trophy for Allsorts.

The third and fourth place play off between HASSRA B and North West was a competitive encounter but which finally saw the HASSRA Team of Adam Ward, Chris Beldon, Kevin Jackson, Ruth Sleigh and Carol Whittington, get over the line with a fine four one win.

The Main Final was a rematch from the Friday Group 1 encounter between HASSRA A and DSTL. The opening match between the number five players Sian Hughes and Deb Atkinson was a chance for the HASSRA Captain to gain revenge for her earlier defeat on Friday. Sian started this quest in strong form by winning the opening game, only to be pegged back when Deb won the second game. Sian however regained control and fought hard to secure victory by winning the next two games. Things continued to go HASSRA’s way with strong performances from Jonathan Simpson, Paul Atkinson and Keeley Grindle. The final match between the number two strings, saw DSTL’s Stuart Scourfield take an early lead, HASSRA’s Ryan Avison however quickly regained control and eventually won 3-1 to secure a five nil match victory for his Team. HASSRA A had retained their third Title in a row!

Congratulations go to HASSRA A for retaining their Championship Title and to the Runners-Up DSTL, their best ever placing. Congratulations also to the new Team Allsorts for winning the Plate Competition. The Squash Team Event this year attracted a total of ten new players. We hope you all enjoyed the experience and that we see you all again next year when our new Organiser Jackie Codman will be in charge.

Prizes were presented by the Civil Service Squash Rackets Association President Marian Holmes. A social evening and Quiz was held on the Friday for players to relax and enjoy. The Quiz was ably organised and hosted by Jim Fay and turned out to be a replica of the following day’s Squash Final this time however being narrowly won by the DSTL Team with HASSRA A in a close second place. Thanks were extended to all the participating players, to our Massage Therapist Graham Spencer and to Nottingham Squash Rackets Club for the use of their fine facilities.

The annual CSSC National Graded Squash Singles took place on 23rd/24th November 2018 at the excellent and always welcoming Nottingham Squash Club. It was again a highly successful event with a wide variety of squash players from all over the country.

As a graded event there were competitions for all levels and all were played in a friendly sportsman-like atmosphere. The top grade was a very high standard, while the lower grades enjoyed a friendly yet equally competitive two days of squash. 28 men and 9 ladies entered – one of our highest entries in recent years. Again it was good to see several newcomers entering the men’s event. Event T-shirts were again provided to give a swathe of purple on court (and possible confusion).

The number of lady entries was higher than in previous years, no completely new players though at least one returning after an absence – and who has been enthused to take up squash again and join a club – keep it up Carol. However the quality of the squash was excellent. The Ladies Competition was split into 2 grades, A/B and C/D, both being held as round-robin events. Unfortunately in the A/B event, Helen Midgley strained a calf muscle during her match with Becky Campbell and Keeley Grindle found herself unable to travel to the club, so this allowed the current holder, Becky Campbell to retain the title with little time on court.

The Ladies C/D event had 6 entries and was held as 2 round-robins followed by knock-out semis and finals. Here CSSC Squash Chairman Siân Hughes, after some close matches, showed her squash skills (and some very precise drop shots, as noted by Shena) to beat Shena Ferrie 3-1 in the final.

This year the entries for the top grade of the men’s event exceeded all past tournaments. Thus it was not possible to combine A and B for the first round. Instead an almost full 16-man draw was created with A’s and “wannabe A’s”. This was run as a knock-out competition with several Plate competitions held to keep all players on court after each round. Unfortunately the current holder of the Men’s trophy, James Hodson, was recovering from injury and not able to play. However CSSC men’s captain, Tim Burrell still had to work hard to take back his crown with a strong challenge from newcomer Tom Metcalf, a match watched and enjoyed by many of the players, which Tim won 3-1 in the final. Worthy of note also are Tony Webb who gave Tom a hard time in the semi-final (Tom won 3-2) and Tim’s semi-final opponent the ever youthful, Marc Aldridge.

A series of Plate events in the A grade were played. These were won by Jonathan Simpson (1st round losers), Frazer Richards (2^nd round losers, Frazer narrowly beating Chris Mason-Thom 3-2) and David Nethercott (1st round Plate losers). In this David paid credit to his opponent Dan Willets for not giving up and making him work for his win, despite Dan struggling with a shoulder injury from the previous day.

There was a separate B grade event with the 6 players playing 2 round-robin groups followed by knock-out semis and finals. Here the final was a tremendous battle between Imran Bashir and James Powell, which James won by 3 games to 1. (James is a “wannabe A” for next year, I believe.) Reported in the match between Imran and Sam Farnham, was one player’s “shot of the tournament” - a cross court kill that ended up lodged in the side wall/floor nick.  In the B grade Plate Sam Farnham emerged successful over newcomer John Cooper.

Eight players were entered into the C/D event so a first round knock out was held. After some hard fought first round matches the 4 winners went into a C grade round robin competition and the 4 losers into a D grade round robin with all playing all.

The C grade produced some close matches. Robert Frame from Wales spent most time on court with 2 tough 5 setters, against Ben Young which Robert won and Chris Smith, which Chris won. The match with Chris deserves a mention as it was one of the marathons of the tournament, going to 5 with only a couple of points separation in each game. Afterwards Robert reported being “gutted not to win that one, but will be back for the challenge next year”. The eventual winner in the C grade was Chris Smith who won all his matches, Robert coming 2^nd.

The D grade competition was also very competitive but suffered from a drop out by one of the players following car trouble on Friday evening. The final winner was Fred Sanders who was taken to 4 games by runner up, CSSRA Treasurer, Jim Fay.

The customary social evening was held at the club on the Friday evening to relax everyone after a hard day’s squash. The club provided supper and organiser Linda ran a light hearted quiz. This, as always, has found to be a great way to relax and bring people together after a hard day’s exercise. It was mentioned by many of the players as a highlight which together with the friendly atmosphere, and the chance to meet and play new players and old friends contributed to their enjoyment of the event. The sports massage therapist available on the Saturday to attend to tired bodies and muscles was again much appreciated by the players.

Presentations were made after the excellent men’s final by CSSRA President, Marian Holmes, who had played in the tournament herself. She thanked the Squash Club for their hospitality and Linda, Ian Lockey and Jackie Codman for their effective organisation. Finally, she thanked all the players for their excellent attitude that helped to make this such a friendly but competitive occasion.

The CSSRA held its AGM on the Saturday, which enabled players to comment and discuss relevant issues around squash events in CSSC. Openings for committee positions were discussed with the current Secretary, Peter Lee, and Treasurer, Jim Fay, suggesting new volunteers or assistants for these positions would be welcome. Ideas for improvements in the events were also discussed.

TROPHIES / PRIZES

Becky Campbell, Ladies Champion	Siân Hughes, Ladies Grade Winner	Shena Ferrie Ladies Grade R-up
Tim Burrell, Mens Champion	James Powell, B grade winner	Imran Bashir, B grade runner-up
with Ladies Champion, Becky Campbell and President, Marian Holmes
	Fred Sanders, D grade winner	Jim Fay, D grade runner-up
Jonathan Simpson, A Plate winner	Frazer Richards, AA Plate winner	David Nethercott, AA2 Plate winner

In September the Ladies and Mens CSSC Teams competed in the annual Quadrangular Tournament against the Fire and Rescue Services, the Combined Armed Forces and the Police Services.

Ladies Team:

This year we were able to field a team of 5 players although one or 2 players were nursing injuries!!! The Ladies team consisted of:

• Rebecca Campbell
• Helen Midgley
• Nicola Beachill
• Keeley Grindle
• Sheena Ferrie

Our first game was against the UK Armed Forces who in past years have been really close games. Helen started be ball rolling with what can only be described as breezes with a 3/0 win against Chrissie Miller. The game score was 11/8, 11/8 and 9/11. Safe to say that Helen was “on fire”!

Next up was Sheena who was feeling very nervous. Sheena had a really close game with Nicola Whitehead which the score line didn’t reflect. First game getting to 10-10, but unfortunately loosing 12/10. The second game was also fought really hard with managing to get 8 points. All to play for in the third, and everyone on the edge of their seats at 10/10, 11/11, 12/12, again unfortunately just missing out on the third game 14/12.

Next up was Keeley, Keeley who is always nervous to start with played Amy Whitehead. These players had never met before. Keeley took the first game 11/8 after a shaky start, and also managed to take the 2^nd game 12/10 after a 10/10 knee shaker!!! Unfortunately the 3^rd game went to Amy who was mounting an enormous come back and had upped her game, but with expert coaching from Helen and Nicola Keeley managed to take the 4^th Game 11/7. A good game to watch.

Whilst Keeley was playing becky was up against Elaine Radcliffe. Again these players had never met before. Becky played really well in the first game but unfortunately just missed out loosing 9/11. Becky dug deep and managed to take the 2^nd game 11/9. The rallies in this game were fantastic and told on Becky in the third game as she lost 2/11. Becky back to fighting fit really tried hard in the 4^th game but wasn’t successful on this occasion. Becky lost the match 3/1.

Only one match left which was Nicola against Annabel Freeman. Nicola had unfortunately missed heard the team score and thought she was playing a “damp squib” thinking we had already lost the match. This was soon put right after the warm up and told that the match rested on this game!!!!! Nicola started slowly as she was playing with “dodgy knees” and hadn’t been on a squash court for 9 months. She lost the first game 9/11 but came off court assuring me that “she felt ok” Nicola came back to true form winning the next 3 games 7/11, 7/11, 2/11. Some amazing shots that showed real talent.

Final result Armed Forces 8 CSSC 15

One match in the bag and all to play for……………………………….if only it hadn’t been the police left to play!!!!!!!!!

This year the police were fielding an amazing team with everyone back from injuries or having babies!! Some of which were very vocal during their parent game! The lady that played at 1 last year was this year playing at 4 which goes to show just how strong their team were.

Nether the less in true CSSC style we all got “stuck in”. Helen again was up first against Chrissie McMullan. These 2 have met on numerous occasions and have very good games unfortunately the score line has always been the same. Helen played well but lost 2/11, 5/11/ 10/12. Helen really tried hard to seal the third game but Chrissies strength shone through.

Next up was Becky playing against Elin Harlow. Elin plays for Wales and is currently ranked 92 on the world circuit! Safe to say that poor Becky had her work cut out! Becky still tried her best but the score line was as expected 3/11, 6/11, 4/11.

Keeley was up next playing Gemma Barber (who was last year playing at one for the Police) again the score line was as expected 2/11, 2/11, 7/11 again Keeley did try her best but unfortunately Gemma was just too strong.

Nicola who was still managing to walk (thankfully) played Rachel Cooper. Again another player who plays for Wales returning from maternity leave. This was a brilliant game to watch, Rachel taking the first game although very hard fought 11/8. Nicola came back with some amazing drop shots to win the second game 11/8. The third game saw Rachel’s biggest and loudest supporter making an impact on the game (her 9 month old daughter) encouraging Rachel to a 11/6 win. Still all to play for in the fourth but unfortunately Rachel’s fitness made an appearance leading her across the finish line with a 11/9 victory

Last game to play (and the closest in this match) was Sheena up against Joyce. Both similar players utilising the “lob and drop” . Sheena fought hard narrowly missing out on the first game 9/11. Sheen displayed true determination taking the second game 12/10. The third game not so close with Joyce using the boast to trick Sheena, Sheena lost that one 3/11. Sheena came back to life to take the fourth game 13/11. All square with the last game to play. Both Sheen and Joyce fighting for their lives. No one wanted to win at 10/10/ 11/11 12/12. Both teams watching this match were intrigued with Joyce just stealing the win at 14/12. Again another fabulous match to watch with both players showing true spirit.

Final result Police 20 CSSC 3

We all had an amazing day with everyone really trying. 2^nd place again but at least we haven’t gone down. The one thing about the CSSC ladies team where we win hands down every year is the “social award” it was lovely that all our team members were able to stay and socialise with other team members on the Friday evening. No other team had all their players out with the Police only having Gemma representing them (don’t worry we took her under our wings and looked after her)

Thanks to everyone for playing.

2018 Ladies Quadrangular Tournament

Mens Team: 

Once again the individual standard on show at this event was exceptionally high and the Civil Service team did well to compete at this level. It was good that the team could welcome a new face to the team as well include some of those that have long played in the Civil Service events and are well known from the playing over the years.

This year the Civil Service had put together a strong consisting of:

• Tim Burrell
• James Whelan
• Tom Metcalf
• Mark Aldridge
• Adam Curry
• Adam Lavis
• Dan Willets

The first match was against last years winners, the Police Force. First on were Adam Lavis and Mark Aldridge. Both players put up strong performances. Mark was finely poised at 1-1 but could not quite get over the line while Adam didn’t quite get the game his performance deserved. Next up were Tim and Tom, with Tom making his first performance for the team having recently joined the Civil Service. With Tim on one court going 2-0 up, on the other court Tom was taking a slightly different path going 2-0 down. At this point both matches swung, with Tim’s opponent coming back into the match to level at 2-2. At the same time Tom was doing the same – he also dug in to level at 2 games each. With a couple of civil service wins it would put the match at 2-2. Alas it was not to be and unfortunately the Police managed to come out on top in both fixtures. Last up were James and Dan. Both fought gamely but were unable to trouble the scorers, with James going down 3-0 and Dan 3-1. So a tough match to start and the overall score line not quite reflecting how close some of the individual matches were.

Next up were the UKAS, always a very tough proposition, and so it proved again this year. The UKAS are always strong and with Tim unable everyone had to move up one place. That said, the team put up some excellent performances and almost managed to score a victory. Mark in particular playing well to score a 3-1 victory and Tom winning a brutal match 3-1 in which every game was decided by only 2 points. Overall a 3-2 loss but a performance to be proud of.

By the last game everybody was finding their form. Adam Curry had stepped into the team and almost managed a win against the fire. Similarly, Tom was once again outstanding and unlucky to lose 3-2. Adam Lavis at 5 was able to sneak a 3-0 victory while the morning excursions from James, Mark and Dan took their toll and they could not quite get a victory.

It was a very tough weekend but with a slightly depleted team the Civil Service put on a strong showing.

QUADRANGULAR TOURNAMENT 7^{th - 8th} September 2018

HASSRA “Top and Tail” all the Opposition at the 2018 Squash Team Championships

The late withdrawal of two teams from this year’s Squash Team National Open Championships left four strong teams to contest the prestigious CSSC Trophy. HASSRA had again arrived in numbers bringing two teams to defend the trophy they had deservedly won in 2017. Strong opposition was however to be provided to HASSRA’s quest by both DSTL and North West teams. All teams consisting of both men and ladies would play each other in a “Round Robin” format over two days starting on Friday the 26th January 2018 and finishing on the Saturday.

The first Round saw the two HASSRA teams square up against each other with the “A” Team firmly showing their class with a convincing five love result. Jackie Codman however playing for the “B” Team at Number Five put up a strong fight against Ruth Sleigh before finally conceding in their fourth game. HASSRA B’s disappointment was made worse by the injury to their Number Two player Sanjay Kain who suffered an ankle injury and was unable to continue in the Event. The other match between DSTL and North West however was a much closer encounter. The DSTL Team already one player down due to the late injury withdrawal of their Number Four player Helen Midgely had to now win three of the remaining matches to keep their Team in the hunt. The early matches were all very close with North West’s  Shena Ferrie defeating Carol Stone in their fifth game. The next match again went to five games but this time DSTL’s David Nethercott was the victor with a fine win over Dan Willets. With North West’s Jim Fay having been pegged back from a two games lead, DSTL were now optimistic of another win. Somehow however the North West player found the extra yard in the final game and just managed to cross the line ahead of his opponent Paul Armstrong. This left Paul Lane from North West the task of cementing his team’s overall victory by playing the experienced DSTL Number Two player, Stuart Scourfield. Stuart however had other ideas and with an impressive display of squash dispatched his opponent three games to love.

A close encounter, the Tie just going North West’s way three matches to two.

The Second Round matches saw the holders HASSRA A and DSTL teams face each other.   HASSRA’s Number Four player Keeley Grindle got her Team off to a good start with a win over Carol Stone, quickly followed by her Team mate Chris Beldon dispatching the valiant Paul Armstrong. DSTL’s Number One David Nethercott could not stop this trend and bravely went down three games to love to the talented Marc Thomas. The match between the Number Two players Adam Ward (HASSRA) and Stuart Scourfield (DSTL) was a quality affair and keenly contested. Stuart however could not find the answer to his opponent’s speed and fitness, losing a close encounter in the fourth. HASSRA A were looking good! The earlier loss to injury of HASSRA B’s Sanjay Kain meant they would start their match by giving North West’s Jim Fay a “walkover”. The HASSRA ladies soon came to the rescue however with Team Captain Sian Hughes just beating Shena Ferrie by three games to two and Jackie Codman beating Deb Atkinson three games to one. HASSRA’s Number Two Kevin Mulligan could not replicate his team’s success losing to Paul Lane three games to love. HASSRA’s Number One player Imran Bashir however got his Team over the line by defeating his opponent Dan Willets in straight games.

With the scores now so finely balanced, Saturday’s play would decide the overall results and which teams would triumph. The first tie saw HASSRA B play DSTL and with both teams being short of a player in different Team positions the outcome would be decided on the three remaining matches being played. HASSRA’s Sian Hughes again got her Team off to a flying start by defeating Carol Stone. Imran Bashir however was unable to repeat this success against DSTL’s David Nethercott who put his side on level pegging by winning in straight games.

This left DSTL’s Stuart Scourfield and HASSRA’s Kevin Mulligan to decide the outcome. The experienced HASSRA player however could not quite match the skillful DSTL man, losing a close match three games to one to concede the overall Tie. The other Tie between HASSRA A and North West would now decide the winner of the Championship – North West would however need to inflict a heavy defeat on their opponents to take the Trophy away from the holders. The first two matches soon put the writing on the wall when both Ruth Sleigh and Chris Beldon chalked up wins for HASSRA by defeating Deb Atkinson and Jim Fay. Things didn’t get any better for North West when their number two players Sheena Ferrie and Paul Lane both lost to their opponents Keeley Grindle and Adam Ward. The final match between the Number One players Marc Thomas (HASSRA) and Dan Willets (North West) was all about pride and in a long and hard fought battle, the tired Marc Thomas finally conceded victory to his determined opponent. It mattered not – HASSRA had retained their winners Title. Other placings, with three teams each level on one Tie each, were not quite so obvious and needed to be assessed on “count-back” scores. It was North West who became runners up by winning one more match than their opponents and the Plate winners were DSTL who had won by only three games from the defending Plate Champions, HASSRA B Team.

Congratulations go to HASSRA A for retaining their Championship Title and to the Runners-Up North West, their best ever placing and also to DSTL for winning the Plate Competition.

Prizes were presented by the Civil Service Squash Rackets Association Chairman Sian Hughes. A social evening and quiz was held on the Friday for players to relax and enjoy. The quiz was organised and hosted by Linda Parsley and was won by Team North West. Thanks were extended to all the participating players and to Nottingham Squash Rackets Club for the use of their fine facilities.

CSSC Masters Championships

The prestigious Nottingham Squash Club was once again the venue for the 2018 CSSC Squash Masters Singles Championships and the CSSC Squash 57 (Racketball) Championships. A favoured venue for many CSSC squash events, the club and its staff once again gave a warm and friendly welcome to the players and guests.

Entrant numbers were the highest since 2013, with the inclusion of 4 new players to the squash tournament and 3 to the Racketball tournament on the Saturday. There were a number who sent apologies saying they would join us next year which bodes well for the future of both tournaments.

The O35 and O45s played each other, over the 2 days, in a round robin with the O55 and O65s in another round robin. The ladies competition was also a round robin played over one day.

Each competition was hard fought and played in a sporting but friendly manner.  

The format for both competitions was slightly different this year with a best of 3, point a rally, first to 11 arrangement ensuring that all entrants played plenty of short matches over the two days.

Both the racketball and the squash events included some inexperienced players who competed with the same level of commitment as the experienced ones. The helpful inclusive atmosphere and camaraderie made everyone feel welcome and provided them with some valuable experience and confidence to take forward to future competitions. We hope to see them again next year.

Squash

Mens O35

This year saw Neil Miles defend his trophy, in a series of keenly fought matches, dropping only 3 games in a round robin containing 10 players in the combined O35 and O45 categories. The runner up trophy went to a Masters newcomer, David Nethercott David won all his games except for the one with Neil which was a  great game to watch. We look forward to seeing these two doing battle again in the future. Our 2016 O35 winner, Craig Blurton,  had to retire injured after turning his ankle in a keenly fought match with David Nethercott. Our esteemed Treasurer Jim Fay was one of the few players who took a game from Neil Miles. 

Mens O45

This year we have a new winner of the O45s. John Frankland was surprised to find himself in with a chance of winning the trophy towards the end of the tournament and everything hinged upon his last match with newcomer Dave Bott. This proved a real battle with both players presenting a good standard of squash and fitness to a packed gallery. The match was won by John two games to one. The runner up in this group was Paul Armstrong.

Ladies O50   

The ladies O50s trophy was won after some real battles along the way for our CSSRA Chairperson Siân Hughes. Siân really had to dig in and kept her opponents on court for longer than anyone else in the tournament. At one stage she appeared to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory but retained her focus and came through a worthy winner! All the ladies enjoyed a round robin format with Shena Ferrie, last year's winner taking the runner up trophy.

Mens O55

Peter Windram, a previous winner had a fantastic tournament and didn't drop any games in his run up to the winner's trophy. The runner up was Kevin Mulligan who we know from previous tournaments, but a welcome newcomer to the Masters.

Mens O65

This year's winner was Richard Kendrick, a familiar face we haven't seen in the Masters for a couple of years. Richard is a first time winner and was playing in a round robin with the O55s and managed to take games from players in the lower age category. It was also good to see Les House back on court after being unable to attend the tournament last year. His nemesis Rob Shepherd was runner -up in the O65's - who must by now have a large display cabinet full of CSSC glassware. Well done Rob.

Racketball                           

The Racketball tournament produced a new champion in Keith Mabey who overcame a spirited display by runner up Collis Sheik (last year's winner in the squash O55s event). Keith and Collis played the final round robin match both undefeated in the group. It was an excellent finale to a packed audience. Hats off to Jan Green, Micky Gallacher, Fred Sanders and Neil Mudie for contributing to the event and making it a challenging, enjoyable day's sport for everyone.

Social

Everyone was kept busy for the two days and in addition to the battles on court, the now infamous and very enjoyable Linda Parsley general knowledge quiz was enjoyed by all together with a chicken supper in the club on the Friday evening. Feedback from the group indicated that everyone had a busy and enjoyable experience. Lunch on Friday and Saturday was also provided and received good feedback.

As ever, the event provided an opportunity for players to combine fitness and fun and to catch up with friends made at previous competitions and to make new ones. Competitors and organisers were pleased to see Marian Holmes our CSSRA President had entered the event despite ongoing injuries and was able to present the winners trophies. We were especially pleased to see her present the Ladies O50s squash trophy to our Chairperson, Siân Hughes.

In September 2017, the Civil Service Ladies and Mens Teams competed in the Civil Service Quadrangular, and annual event between the Civil Service, the Combined Armed Forces, the Police Service and the Fire and Rescue Services

Ladies Team:

Unfortunately this year both Nicola Beachill and Ruth Sleigh were unavailable So Shena Ferrie and our CSSC captain Sian Hughes stepped up to the mark.

Our first game was against the police who last year claimed the title so we were a little apprehensive to say the least! However the Police were only able to field a team of 4. Sian had a reprieve and wasn’t required to play (I have to say she seemed more than happy at this prospect). Next up was Shena who was feeling very nervous however managed to win the match 3-0 with her opponent Sara only managing to score 5 points in every game. Shena played amazing getting the team off to a flying start. Keeley was next on court with an old rival Alicia. Keeley and Alicia have met in previous years with the games being very close. This year Keeley managed a 3-0 victory at ease putting the team at a win – No pressure then Beckie or Helen?????? Beckie was on court next with what I have to say was the match of the day, an epic battle. The first game Beckie managed to steal, getting to 10-10 and fighting to take it 12-10. The second game went much the same way with another 10-10 this time Beckie narrowly missed out losing 12-10. The third game another 10-10 but Beckie just couldn’t manage to win with another 12-10 lose. The 4^th game and all to play for. Beckie had fire in her belly managed to take this game 11-7. 2 games all and no one with any finger nails left! Beckie tried really hard but I think fitness was telling in this game the final result for the game was 6-11 with a match score of 2-3. I can honestly say Beckie gave it her all and played some amazing squash. There was nothing left in the tank. Last but not least was Helen. On first look at Helen it would seem she was feeling the effects of the previous night however she managed to put her heart and soul into the game. Helens opponent Debbie was just too strong taking the game 3-0. Amazing games and a win for CSSC

After lunch and with full bellies we were up against the UKAF. The UKAF hadn’t dropped a game against the police so we definitely had something to prove!! We were off to a win to start as unfortunately one of their players had to leave, leaving them with a team of 4. Sian again was not required to play (poor Sian but her face again was one of pure delight! – think she may be trying to tell me something) . Shena again was up first- nerves had her in the first game as she lost 4-11 however the second game she managed a win with a score of 12-10 (this is the first game the UKAF had managed to drop – well done Shena) unfortunately her opponent Sian came storming back to take the next two games 11-5 and 11-2 with a match score of 3-1. Next up was Helen looking a little more peaky and ready for action. Helen gave her all again but unfortunately lost 3-0 with games scores 4-11, 5-11 and 3-11. Keeley was up next playing Yvette fantastically close games not reflecting the 3-0 score. Getting to 10-10 in the first game but just not having the stamina to get over the finish line losing the first game 12-10. The second game and nerves had gone, 10 all then 11 all but again just not being able to get the last 2 points losing 11-13. With nothing left in the tank Keeley tried her best but lost the final game 9-11. Next time Keeley will have this!!!!! Last on court was Beckie (she needed a longer rest after her epic first game). Again a well fought match against Rosie! Beckie just missing out on the first game 8-11 but came back in the second to take it 11-9 (another game dropped for the UKAF!) unfortunately the effects of the first match told on Beckies legs losing the third and fourth game 3-11 and 4-11.

We had an amazing day with everyone really trying and only just missing out (Sian it was the best I have seen you play ;) ) A steady 2^nd place again but at least we haven’t gone down. I have said it every year that next year will be ours so this year I am keeping my mouth shut and we will see what happens! Thanks to everyone for playing.

Quadrangle Women's Tournament finishing positions

Mens Team:

The individual standard on show was exceptionally high again with ex world ranked players competing for both the UK Armed Services and Fire Service.

This year the Civil Service had put together a strong consisting of:

• James Hodson
• Tim Burrell
• Ethan Thornton
• Mark Aldridge
• Adam Lavis
• Jon McFarlane

The first match was against last years winners, the Fire Service. First on were Adam Lavis and Ethan Thornton. Adam played well to win 3-1 and record his first with for the National Civil Service Team. Ethan had it tough playing at number 3 and despite working some good positions, especially in the 2^nd game, he could not convert and went down 3-0. Next up were Tim Burrell and Mark Aldridge. Again, the 2 matches followed different paths. With Mark Looking good at 1 game-all and 10-7 up he somehow managed to lose that game and the match 3-1. Tim fared better on the other court and won 3-0. This left the match poised at 2-2 with the last match on – numbers 1’s with James Hodson against National Over 40’s champion Pete O’Hara. Despite a strong showing and winning one game, he couldn’t quite win the match. A close 3-2 loss to start.

Next up were the Police Force. The Police are always string, particularly in depth and unfortunately the Civil Service had little to show for their efforts at strings 2-5. All put up a good fight but Adam the only player to win a game. Lastly James at number 1 managed to put the rest of the players to shame by winning his match 3-0.

Last up were UKAS. Civil Service needed a win to avoid coming last. First up were Ethan and Mark. Ethan had a marathon match, playing exceptionally well to come back from 2-1 down to win his match 3-2. Mark did not have as much success and went down 3-0 despite having some chances. Next up were Tim and Adam. Tim began slowly, losing the first game. By the second he had settled down and managed to win the match 3-1. Despite close games Adam could not overcome his opponent and went down 3-0. So once again it was down to James at number 1. Unfortunately, against another ex-world ranked player, he was unable to get the victory and the team ended with a 3-2 loss.

So, after 3 tough matches the Civil Service ended up losing all 3 matches very closely. The event was excellently hosted and run the Police Force, with the Police Force team also coming out as eventual winners of the event.

QUADRANGULAR TOURNAMENT September 2017

CSSC NATIONAL SQUASH SINGLES COMPETITION – 2017

The annual CSSC National Graded Squash Singles, which took place on 24/25^th November 2017, was again a highly successful event with many talented squash players from all over the country attracted to the excellent facilities at Nottingham Squash Club together with an impressive field of players in the top half of the draw. Being a graded event there was squash available for all levels and the event saw a friendly yet competitive two days of squash for the 26 men and 3 ladies who entered. It was again good to see several newcomers entering the men’s event. Confusingly some matches were hard to mark when both players turned out in their identical free purple event T-shirts!

The number of lady entries was again disappointing, though the quality of the squash was excellent. The Ladies Competition was held as a round-robin with the current holder, Becky Campbell retaining her title by overcoming Keeley Grindle and CSSC Squash Chairman Sian Hughes.

With a full 16-man draw in the men’s A/B event, this was held as a knock-out competition with 1^st round winners forming the A event and the losers forming the B event.

The A grade event had a strong field. There were a lot of good matches with only CSSC Champion James Hodson and former Champion Tony Webb reaching the semi-finals without dropping a game.  However despite the 3-0 score line in Tony’s quarter final match against James Whelan it was a very tight and hard-fought match. It was a contrast in styles with Tony’s fluid movement, gliding around the court versus James’ more brutal hard hitting. A very determined James chased down every ball as Tony moved him around the court, with Tony just about edging every game to take a 3-0 win. In the semi-final Tony came up against Tim Burrell, someone he has played many times before. The outcome was a 3-0 win for Tim to put him once more into the final.

Possibly the closest match in this group was Marc Aldridge’s quarter final against Adam Lavis, which he won 3-2. Marc led 2-1 before Adam fought back to level at 2-2. Adam looked a likely winner when he took an early lead in the 5th but Marc used all his experience and guile to take the game and match 11-8 in the 5^th. In his semi-final match against James Hodson, Marc started well taking the first game 11-9, but was not able to hold off James from reaching his 6^th successive final with a 3-1 win.

The men’s A final was a repeat of many years with Tim battling against James Hodson for the title. The second game was especially crucial with Tim fighting back from game point at 7-10 to make it 10 all. Unfortunately for Tim, James was able to hold off the challenge and take the game 12-10. James then stormed off at the beginning of the 3^rd game and Tim was not able to prevent him taking his 6^th title before a full crowd who had stayed to watch the final - a fantastic display of squash.

The A grade Plate event was won by James Whelan who certainly earned success with his energetic squash with close matches against both Mark Bangs (3-2) and Adam Lavis (3-1).

All first round losers in the initial AB grade draw went into the B grade competition in an 8 man knock out. Here Imran Bashir came through to the final, after a strong challenge in the semi-final from Dan Willets. With games see-sawing between them the outcome was undecided up to 7all in the 5^th game when Imran managed to secure the match. In the other half of the draw Chris Thom and Dave Netherton both had tough first round matches against Paul Lane and James Hewitt respectively. In the final Chris was able to overcome the challenge from Imran with a 3-1 win.

In the B grade Plate James Powell emerged successful after a hard fought match against Craig Blurton, when he came back from 0-2 down to win 3-2 followed by a 3-1 win in the final over Paul Lane.

Initially 10 players were entered into the CD event so a first round knock out was held. With one entrant failing to arrive and one player obviously in the wrong grade (and moved up to the AB event), this, after some hard fought first round matches left 4 winners to play in the C grade event and 4 losers to play in the D grade event. These were held as Round Robin competitions with all playing all.

The C grade produced some close matches with the eventual winner being Micky Gallacher over Matt Thomas in 2^nd place. The tightest matches, in fact were between Micky and John Frankland and Matt and Fred Sanders – all in all a very tight group.

The D grade competition was equally hard fought with Paul Armstrong emerging the worthy winner over CSSC Squash Treasurer Jim Fay in 2^nd place.

The customary social evening was held at the club on the Friday evening to relax everyone after a hard day’s squash. The club provided supper and organiser Linda provided a light hearted quiz. Fortunately the winners took this light-heartedly as Linda managed to miscalculate the scores and awarded the wrong team 1^st prize.!

The CSSRA held its AGM on the Saturday, which enabled players to comment and discuss relevant issues. Ideas for improvement, alternative venues and a social team match were discussed.

CSSRA President, Marian Holmes, who had been in attendance throughout the tournament (though not playing this year as a result of injury), presented the prizes and thanked the Squash Club for their hospitality and Linda and Ian Lockey for their effective organisation of the event. Finally, she thanked all the players for their excellent attitude that helped to make this such a friendly but competitive occasion.

Report Written by Linda Parsley

                                                        TROPHIES / PRIZES

Civil Service Squash Player! 

The deadline for entering the Civil Service Squash Championship on 24th and 25th of November is approaching! Entries are already in, but if you hope to play, make sure you enter before November 9th. 

This is a great event, held up in at the Nottingham Squash and Rackets Club over 2 days. All players play 4 matches. The best get to challenge James Hodson, the current Civil Service Champion and try to end his current 5 year unbeaten run! There will be a free T-shirt for all entrants and a quiz, drinks and food is available on the Friday night. 

It's a great opportunity to get to know more of the Civil Service Squash players from around the country in a competitive but social environment. 

Funding for transport and accomodation can be applied for from your region. (From personal experience, this has covered nearly all my costs over the last few years).  

More details and the entry form can be downloaded here: https://www.cssc.co.uk/CSSC/index.cfm/things-to-do/event-search/event-detail/?oid=3838

Civil Service Squash Committee