Today we celebrate International Day of People with Disability and acknowledge the 4.4 million Australians with disability.

Join the conversation this #IDPwD to help raise awareness, challenge perceptions and break down barriers.

Together we can help make our community more accessible, equitable and inclusive for people with disability.

How old were you when you discovered squash and how did you get into it?

I started playing squash when I was eight. My dad used to play squash and that’s how he introduced my sisters and I to it. Sadly, I’m the only one out of my siblings who enjoys playing squash and decided to get into it. 

What do you love most about the sport?

I love playing squash simply because it’s fun and competitive! A lot of my friends think squash looks boring in the contained space consisting of four plain walls. But for me, that’s what makes squash very challenging both physically and mentally, and you can never get bored with it. I also love all the friends that I have met in Squash, back when I was in Hong Kong, then in Sydney, and now in Perth! I can see how amazing that the squash community is all over the world with people who are passionate about this sport. 

Why do you think more women should give it a go?

Because it’s one of the healthiest sports in the world!! It can be a very social sport, non-contact, and very beginner-friendly. Most importantly, you can get into the squash community and meet so many great people there! Women should definitely give it a go!

Thanks for chatting with us Hayley!

How old were you when you discovered squash and how did you get into it?

I started to play squash when I was 4 or 5 years old, my brother and I used to wait in the corridors of the squash courts waiting for the adults to come off for a drink between games, then run on and play for a minute or so.

What do you love most about the sport?

I can play it anytime with any standard of player, it’s the only sport to can play and have fun without even knowing you’ve done a dreaded workout!

Why do you think more women should give it a go?

Most women don’t have a lot of time and squash is the quickest, most fun activity you can get in a short period of time.

Thanks for chatting with us Leigh!

How old were you when you discovered squash and how did you get into it?

I was around 9 or 10 when I started playing. I lived in a country town where most kids grew up playing three to four different sports. Squash was great as it could be played all year round unlike softball, netball and tennis (all of which were outdoor sports). I have played all four sports for most of my life.

What do you love most about the sport?

I love the tournaments. A great way to play and meet new people. As well as seeing a bit more of the state than you might normally.

Why do you think more women should give it a go?

A lot of women that haven’t played squash before think it looks too hard but really it’s not. Unlike tennis you don’t have to chase your balls all over the place LOL. Squash is such a brilliant workout. I love the mental and physical challenge every time I walk on the court. More ladies need to give it a go!

Thanks for chatting with us Bec!