Coaches Blog No.2

Junior Squash Program Overview – Thornleigh Squash Club

The Junior Squash Program at Thornleigh Squash Club provides a structured development pathway for young players of all ages and abilities, from beginner juniors through to nationally ranked athletes. The program focuses on skill development, fitness, match play, teamwork and creating a strong squash community environment.

Coaching Team 

The junior program is led by an experienced and passionate coaching group: 

• Mike Dickens – Head Coach and Program Co-ordinator 

• Michelle Pym 

• Kasper Cheung  

• Daniel Gonzalez  

• Oliver Dickens  

The coaching team works closely together to ensure players are grouped appropriately and receive individual guidance as they progress through the program. 

Junior Squad Structure 

Tuesday & Thursday Junior Squads 

The weekly junior development squads run on both Tuesdays and Thursdays and are divided into age and ability groups to support player development. 

4:15pm – 5:00pm 

“Minis” Program (Under 9s) 

This introductory group is designed for younger players beginning their squash journey. Sessions focus on: 

• Fundamental movement and coordination  

• Racquet skills  

• Basic squash techniques  

• Fun games and activities  

• Developing confidence and enjoyment of the sport  

Adjacent to the Minis group is the next development level for players aged approximately 9 to 11 years old. These sessions build on foundational skills and introduce: 

• Learning to play rallies and the rules 

• Court movement  

• Improved shot consistency and fitness  

5:00pm – 6:00pm 

High School Development Squad 

This squad caters for junior high school players who are progressing through competitive squash. Players work on: 

• Technical development  

• Tactics during match play  

• Fitness and movement  

• Competitive preparation, rules, behaviour and mindset 

From this squad, talented players are identified and invited into the club’s elite Performance Squad pathway. 

Performance Squad Pathway 

The Performance Squad represents the highest level of junior training at Thornleigh Squash Club. 

Training Times 

• Wednesdays: 5:00pm – 6:00pm  

• Fridays: 6:00pm – 8:00pm  

This squad is designed for players who are: 

• Current members of State or National squads  

• Competing regularly at high-level junior tournaments  

• On the fringe or part of the Australian representative selection squad 

• Demonstrating strong commitment and performance potential  

Performance Squad players train in a high-performance environment with an emphasis on: 

• Elite technical development  

• Tactical and mental preparation  

• Strength and movement  

• Tournament preparation  

• High-level match play  

Many members of the current Performance Squad are now ranked within the Top 10 players in Australia in their respective age groups. 

Leading Player Highlight 

Kasper Cheung is the senior member of the Performance Squad and is currently: 

• The Australian Under 19 No.1  

• The Australian Junior Open Champion  

Kasper provides a strong role model for younger players and demonstrates the success of the pathway through the Thornleigh junior program. 

Emilia Scott is the clubs highest ranked female player at no.3 in the under 17 rankings. She is also a former AJC winner, state champion and a pivotal part of the NSW state team. 

Competition & Development Pathway 

The Thornleigh junior system provides players with clear competition pathways as they develop. 

Development & Feeder Pathway 

Players in the High School Development Squad are encouraged to compete in: 

• Sydney Junior Pennant competitions on Saturday mornings  

• Internal club Box Leagues  

• Local Bronze and Silver Junior Tournaments throughout Sydney  

These competitions provide valuable match experience and help players transition into higher levels of squash. 

Performance Pathway 

Performance Squad athletes compete in: 

• Adult Pennant competitions  

• Higher-grade Junior tournaments  

• National ranking events  

• Selected adult tournaments across Australia  

This structure ensures players are continually challenged and exposed to increasingly competitive environments. 

Junior Membership 

Junior Membership at Thornleigh Squash Club provides access to: 

• Junior squad training opportunities  

• Club competitions and box leagues  

• Pennant eligibility  

• Social and competitive club activities  

• A structured long-term player development pathway  

Membership fees are designed to provide affordable access for juniors and families while supporting coaching, competition opportunities and player development within the club environment. 

The club prides itself on fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where juniors can enjoy the sport, improve their skills and pursue competitive squash at whatever level they aspire to.