In her role as Director of Squash at Chelsea Piers, Grainger will be responsible for hiring top-level squash professionals and developing Fairfield County’s dynamic squash programming. Programming will include beginner to advanced level instruction, private lessons, leagues, elite team training, camps, clinics and more. In addition, CPCT intends to host high-level tournaments and competitions throughout the year.

With twelve professional quality courts (11 singles and 1 doubles), the Squash Club at Chelsea Piers Connecticut will be one of the largest private squash facilities in the Northeast. In addition to its 12 courts, the club will feature member locker rooms, a pro shop with stringing facilities, a comfortable lounge and unparalleled viewing areas.   CPCT will also feature 7 indoor tennis courts in its Tennis Center. Grainger will also serve as overall director for racquet sports at Chelsea Piers.

“Grainger is seen by many as one of the great female squash players in the history of the sport,” commented Mollie Marcoux, Executive Director of CPCT. “She grew up watching her parents teach and has competed and coached at the highest level. Her depth of knowledge, dynamic personality and passion for the game will be a great asset to the program.”

“Chelsea Piers represents quality and authenticity in sports and programming,” said Grainger. “The facilities for squash and tennis at Chelsea Piers Connecticut are unmatched in the area and I look forward to introducing kids to the sport as well as helping adults further their game.”

ABOUT CHELSEA PIERS CONNECTICUT
Chelsea Piers Connecticut (CPCT) is a 400,000-sq-ft state-of-the-art sports and recreation facility located in Stamford, CT, just off I-95 at Exit 9. Slated to open in June 2012, Chelsea Piers Connecticut will consist of seven core sports facilities encompassing more than 18 sports.

•       The Rinks – Twin rink skating facility for ice hockey and figure skating
•       Aquatics Center – Olympic-sized pool, warm water instructional and exercise pool, and 6,000 sq-ft water play area featuring three giant slides
•       Gymnastics Training Center – 15,000 sq-ft gymnastics training space with a recreational trampoline center and cheerleading program
•       Baseball and Softball Training Facility – Indoor turf infield and five batting cages
•       Field House – Indoor 100-yard turf field for soccer, lacrosse, football, field hockey, softball and baseball; hardwood courts for basketball and volleyball; and a 1/5-mile track.
•       Squash Center – Squash Center with 12 courts
•       Tennis Center – Tennis Center with seven indoor tennis courts

Like Chelsea Piers New York, CPCT will combine athletic facilities with an extensive array of professional instructors and league programs for youths, teens and adults.

In addition to these sport offerings, CPCT will also be home to:

•       Childcare facility and preschool – Small class sizes, certified teachers and use of the sports facilities at CPCT
•       Food Service – Food service, event spaces, and catering throughout the facility
•       Pro Shop – An on-site pro shop for equipment needs

The decision follows the recent resignation of WISPA’s President Natalie Grainger, the former world number one from the USA who also represented the Association in the capacity of Principal.

Lofdahl-Bentzer, a former Swedish tennis number one, joined the WISPA Board in 2005. Head of Women’s Professional Tennis at the ITF from 1995-99, the ex-world No14 went on to become the International Sponsoring Director for Sanex Tennis, sponsors of the WTA Tour, before becoming an advisor to the Monte Carlo Tennis Masters.

“We are so excited at WISPA to have someone with Ingrid’s credentials and experience taking over as Acting CEO,” said President Jaclyn Hawkes. “We are at an important juncture with the launch of the new World Series and the Board is confident that Ingrid is the person to help take WISPA to the next level.

“Ingrid has been acting above and beyond her role as Chairman of the Board of WISPA so the Board felt it was a natural appointment to Acting CEO,” added the world No16 from New Zealand.

Ingrid Lofdahl-Bentzer told the board: “Thank you for trusting me and appointing me! With your help, I’ll do my level best to protect, improve and advance squash in general and women’s squash in particular!”

“And, I’ll do it with great pleasure and pride!”

Natalie Grainger, the recently married former world number one who retired from the WISPA World Tour in December, is standing down as President of WISPA (Women’s International Squash Players’ Association) with immediate effect.

“WISPA has been part of my life for so long, fifteen years as a touring player, thirteen as a board member and eight years as WISPA President,” said the US-based 33-year-old in her resignation letter to the Association’s members.

“But I have a fantastic opportunity awaiting me. I have begun work on a project for Chelsea Piers New York. Chelsea Piers is opening a huge facility in Stamford, CT, which will include two ice rinks, an Olympic pool, gymnastics arena, batting cages, basketball courts, a full-sized soccer field, trampoline area and climbing wall, seven tennis courts and – the most exciting part—eleven squash courts and a hardball doubles court.

“Chelsea Piers has also agreed to purchase an all-glass court, which we can erect for major championships—so perhaps many of you will be passing through my doors in the near future,” added Grainger, who won 23 WISPA World Tour titles throughout her illustrious career —and clinched her fifth successive US national title this weekend!

In paying tribute to the outstanding contribution Grainger has made to WISPA, Chairman Ingrid Lofdahl-Bentzer said: “WISPA has been incredibly lucky to have profited from Natalie’s enthusiasm, energy and love for the game of squash during such a long time.”

“Her willingness and enthusiasm to work relentlessly to help WISPA reach a level of professionalism and recognition has been pivotal and she is leaving a great legacy.”

“She will be sorely missed, both on and off court, by her fans, of which I am one of the many. The Board wishes her all the best of luck in whatever she chooses to lend her numerous talents to.”

Vice-President Jaclyn Hawkes will be acting President during the interim period.

“It has been and is a privilege to be a Board member as well as the WISPA Vice-President during Natalie’s tenure,” said the world No15 from New Zealand. “She has worked unbelievably hard for our organisation and hers will be very tough shoes to fill.

“It is an honour to be the acting President, a position which I will embrace.”

Natalie Grainger‘s resignation letter can be seen in full on www.wispa.net

30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

Day 4, Women’s Quarterfinals:

Ready and waiting.

[1] Madeline Perry (IRL) bt. [Q] Victoria Lust (ENG)
11/7, 11/5, 11/2 (25 mins)
[4] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt. [6] Sarah Kippax (ENG)
7/11, 11/2, 8/11, 11/3, 11/8 (60mins)
[7] Aisling Blake (IRL) bt. [3] Natalie Grinham (NED)
11/4, 11/4, 9/11, 11/3 (42 mins)
[5] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) bt. [2] Natalie Grainger (USA)
11/7, 11/6, 11/7 (23 mins)

BY Arthur Curran

Hello, Ireland!

[1] Madeline Perry (IRL) bt. [Q] Victoria Lust (ENG)

Victoria and Madeline

First up today saw No 1 seed and Irish favourite Madeline Perry against the young English player Victoria Lust, the only qualifier to make her way through to the quarter finals. Victoria is not yet used to playing against top ranked players, but she is certainly learning very quickly, and seems toimprove every time I see her play. Madeline showed her experience and skill to take a 10/4 lead in the first with Victoria, although fighting hard, seeming to find the pace a little too quick, but she did save 3 game balls before Madeline took the game 11/7.

In the second Victoria picked up the odd single point in between some short breaks from Madeline, and Madeline served out to take the game 11/5. With Victoria visibly tiring, Madeline worked hard into a 9/1 lead, Victoria managed to take two points at this stage but Madeline then served out to take the game 11/3 and the match 3 games to nil in 25 minutes.

Madeline, looking forward to the semis now!

[4] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt. [6] Sarah Kippax (ENG)
Second ladies match up was between two England team mates, #4 seed Laura Massaro and #6 seed Sarah Kippax, so this was expected to be quite a close encounter, which it proved to be. Laura seemed a little out of sorts in the first game and Sarah, 16 places below her in the rankings, took advantage of this, playing some great squash, and won the game 11/7.

Laura, returning Sarah's shot.

Laura to play Madeline tomorrow.

Laura came out much more determined in the second, and flew into a 7/0 lead, Sarah stopped the flow slightly with 2 points, but then Laura carried on to win the game 11/2. Laura moved out to an early 5/3 lead but Sarah slowly pulled back to 6/5, then 9/7, and finally took the game 11/8 to lead 2 – 1. In the fourth, from 3/3 Laura put in a great run of points to take the game 11/3 and level the match.

Laura scored the first point of the deciding game, before Sarah galloped in to a 6/1 lead, but with a beautiful crosscourt drop Laura stopped that gallop and went on a good run of her own to move into the lead 7/6. Although Sarah fought back to lead 8/7, with both players playing some lovely shots, Laura came back at the end with a run of 4 points to win the game 11/8 and the match 3 – 2 after just on an hour of very enjoyable squash.

[7] Aisling Blake (IRL) bt. [3] Natalie Grinham (NED)

Natalie, digging deep.

Aisling looking fitter than ever!

The Blake Family

[5] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) bt. [2] Natalie Grainger (USA)

Former World Champs, Vanessa Atkinson and Natalie Grainger

30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

Day 3, Women’s Round 1:

It's all thumbs up for SquashStar Aisling.

(5) Vanessa Atkinson (NED) beat Lauren Siddall (ENG)
11/3, 11/3, 11/7 (23 mins)
(2) Natalie Grainger (USA) beat Sharon Wee (MAS)
11/4, 11/6, 11/6 (20 mins)
(Q) Victoria Lust (ENG) beat (8) Alana Miller (CAN)
11/8, 11/6, 11/8 (37 mins)
(3) Natalie Grinham (NED) beat Annelize Naude (NED)
11/8, 3/11, 11/5, 8/11, 11/5. (36 mins)
(7) Aisling Blake (IRE) beat (Q) Leonie Holt (ENG)
11/7, 11/6, 9/11, 11/6 (45 mins)
(1) Madeline Perry (IRE) beat (Q) Sina Wall
11/9, 11/4, 11/4 (25 mins)
(4) Laura Massaro (ENG) beat Alexandra Norman (CAN)
11/5, 11/2, 11/4 (25 mins)
(6) Sarah Kippax (ENG) beat (Q) Laura Hill (ENG)
10/12, 11/8, 11/7, 11/3 (44 mins)

BY Arthur Curran

Lauren and Vanessa

The first two matches in the women’s draw were over rather quickly, with first former World No 1 Vanessa Atkinson of Holland defeating her friend and Pontefract club mate Lauren Siddall quite comfortably 11/3, 11/3, 11/7 in 28 minutes, then another former World No1 Natalie Grainger defeating Sharon Wee of Malaysia 11/4, 11/6, 11/6 in the even shorter time of 20 minutes.

Nice hairdo, Alana!

The third match between No 8 seed Alana Miller, just named in Canada’s squad for the Commonwealth games, and qualifier Vicky Lust of England turned out to be much more of a battle. The first game was really a battle, both ladies playing very strongly, the score moved up slowly and evenly up to 8/8, then Lust eased away to serve out 11/8. The second started a little slower up to 3/3, but then Lust put in a charge to go to 8/3. Despite Miller taking two points back at this stage, and saving one match ball at 10/5, Lust hung on to win 11/6. In the third the lead changed hands several times with both players doing their best to take control, which Lust did in the end to win 11/8 and the match 3 – 0. A really good win for young Victoria against a player ranked 24 places higher in the world.

Annelize and Natalie

The fourth match up was between the two Dutch compatriots Annelize Naude and Natalie Grinham, in her first match since having baby Kieran (he is already the star of the tournament here, more about that later). Natalie looked very fit and took a good early lead 8/2, playing her usual lovely squash, but Annelize stayed in the game and pulled it back to 8/9, then Natalie took he next two points and the game 11/8. Annelize led 4/1 in the second, Natalie pulled back to level, Annelize took the next point but that was to be her last in this game, Natalie taking 7 straight points to win the game 11/5. In the fourth, Natalie looked not quite back to full match fitness and Annelize took advantage of this with some great squash and after a four point sequence to go 9/5 up, held on to win 11/8. 2 games each and a decider to play. Natalie came back with her usual bouncy style, led 5/2 and 9/4 then served out to win the game 11/5 and the match 3 – 2. A great match between two really nice women, and a good workout for Natalie, who told me she just needs to play more top level games, but unfortunately may not be able to before the World Open.

Aisling and Leonie.

Next on the ladies court was local player and local favourite Aisling Blake, seeded No 7 and WR 26, up against the English qualifier WR 155 Leonie Holt. Leonie, despite her much lower ranking, showed to be a really gutsy player as she did in qualifying, kept fairly close to Aisling on the score card, but Aisling with her lovely dainty drop shots and her Irish grit eased away to win the first two games 11/7 and 11/6. But Leonie was not to be outdone, and in a gruelling third game she managed to win 11/9. This really was a great effort from Leonie, considering the difference in their rankings, but despite keeping fairly close to Aisling in the fourth, experience showed through in the end with Aisling taking the game 11/6 and the match 3 – 1 in a long 45 minutes. This was probably the biggest match of Leonie’s career and her coach Chris Ryder, just managing time to watch her before he took to the court in the men’s competition, was really happy with her performance.

Sina and top seed, Madeline.

Now we come to the No 1 seed and favourite for this tournament, Irish player Madeline Perry, WR 6, who was up against a young up and coming qualifier from Germany, qualifier Sina Wall, WR 212 (yes that is correct), who had fought so well through the qualifying rounds. She carried on that fighting spirit her in the first game and whilst never heading Madeline, she kept very close to her in the scoring, just losing out 11/9. Then Madeline showed her experience and skills, easing through 11/4 and 11/4 in the next two games. But keep an eye out for this youngster from Germany, I think she could go far in the next few years. But at least that pleased the local supporters, with now 2 Irish ladies through to the next round.

Still a couple more matches to go, with No 4 seed Laura Massaro from England easing through fairly comfortably against the young Canadian player Alexandra Norman, who is ranked 50 places below her, 11/5, 11/2, 11/4, despite a knock in the eye which could come up fairly black tomorrow. If it does nobody can blame husband Danny for causing it!!

Last up were two English ladies, No 6 seed Sarah Kippax, recently married to England coach David Campion, and full time fire fighter and part time, but very experienced, squash player Laura Hill from Derbyshire in England. Laura started out like a house on fire (pardon the pun) taking a great 10/2 lead, and despite Sarah pulling back to level at 10/10 she served out to take the game 12/10. However, Sarah then showed her much more tournament experience, along with her great racquet skills, to take the next 3 games 11/8, 11/7 and 11/3.

And so we came to the end of a really exciting and entertaining day of Squash, with some great matches to look forward to later today.

The Berden family pictured with tournament star, little Kieran Berden.

Arthur Curran lives in Manchester, England and is an avid squash fan, traveling to places like Belfast, Madrid, Monte Carlo, New York, Connecticut, Dublin and Kuala Lumpur to watch major tournaments, as well as extensively in the UK, and have on several occasions reported tournaments for squashsite.co.uk. Although too old and too ill to be able to play the game he is fascinated by the athleticism and skill involved in the game and with the friendliness shown by all the players.

Nicol David Seeded To Win Record-Equalling Fifth World Title In Egypt

Nicol gunning for her 5th World Title

Malaysia’s world number one Nicol David is set to equal Australian Sarah Fitz-Gerald’s record five women’s world squash titles in the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Soho Square at Sharm El Sheikh next month, according to the draw for The Soho Square World Open revealed by the Women’s International Squash Players’ Association (WISPA).

The first Women’s World Open ever to be held in Egypt, the leading event on the WISPA World Tour will feature a record prize fund of $147,000.

The tournament will be staged on an all-glass show court at Soho Square Sharm El Sheikh, part of the premier resort in Sharm El Sheikh’s shopping and entertainment complex. Following the successful Soho Square WISPA Tour event held in 2009, the high-end destination resort built permanent squash courts, on which the three rounds of qualification will be played.

It was in December 2005, three years after Sarah Fitz-Gerald made history with her fifth world title in Qatar, that Nicol David began the assault on her mentor’s record. The 26-year-old from Penang clinched her fourth world title in five years last September, beating Dutch rival Natalie Grinham in the final in her hometown of Amsterdam.

Natalie Grinham & Vanessa Atkinson are in Nicol's half of the draw

David, who has dominated the women’s game since first topping the world rankings in January 2006, has already overtaken one of Fitz-Gerald’s achievements – surpassing her regular Australian training partner to become the player with the third longest reign at the top of the women’s rankings.

Nicol David begins her 2010 world title campaign against a qualifier – and is scheduled to face Jenny Duncalf, the second seed from England, in the final.

But the Malaysian could come up against Natalie Grinham in the quarter-finals in a repeat of the 2009 final. Grinham, the No. 8 seed, is making her Tour comeback after giving birth to her first child, son Kieran, in May.

Jenny Duncalf became world No. 2 last December following two shock wins over David. But the Penangite re-established her authority over 27-year-old Duncalf with victories in three WISPA Gold event finals this year.

Jenny is a strong contender for the title

Duncalf faces rising Hong Kong star Annie Au in the first round and is likely to go on to meet fifth seed Omneya Abdel Kawy in the quarter-finals. The 25-year-old Egyptian has long been a thorn in Duncalf’s side – and boasts an 8-2 head-to-head Tour record over the Englishwoman.

If Duncalf does progress to the semi-finals, her anticipated opponent would be Rachael Grinham, the third seed from Australia who is one of two former world champions in the draw. The 33-year-old Queenslander won the title in 2007 after beating younger sister Natalie in the final in Madrid.

But Grinham senior also has a tough potential quarter-final clash – with Ireland’s Madeline Perry, the sixth seed who celebrated the biggest tournament win of her career at the Australian Open in Canberra on Sunday.

Former world number one Natalie Grainger will be returning to World Open action after missing the 2009 event because of a foot injury. The No. 7 seed from the USA made her debut in the 1993 event in her then home country South Africa. Runner-up in 2002, Grainger will face England’s Sarah Kippax in the opening round in Egypt.

Dutch star Vanessa Atkinson will be making her 14th successive appearance in the championship. The 2004 champion is the 15th seed, and faces a qualifier in the first round.

Former World Champions

1st round draw:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) v Qualifier
[12] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) v Qualifier
[8] Natalie Grinham (NED) v Low Wee Wern (MAS)
[14] Samantha Teran (MEX) v Isabelle Stoehr (FRA)
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) v Qualifier
[9] Laura Massaro (ENG) v Qualifier
[7] Natalie Grainger (USA) v Sarah Kippax (ENG)
[15] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) v Qualifier
[11] Kasey Brown (AUS) v Qualifier
[6] Madeline Perry (IRL) v Delia Arnold (MAS)
[16] Jaclyn Hawkes (NZL) v Donna Urquhart (AUS)
[3] Rachael Grinham (AUS) v Qualifier
[10] Camille Serme (FRA) v Qualifier
[5] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) v Aisling Blake (IRL)
[13] Engy Kheirallah (EGY) v Joelle King (NZL)
[2] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) v Annie Au (HKG)

For all the latest information, check out the official website: www.sohosquareworldopen.com/2010

The second half of the year is certainly a hectic one in the squash calendar. Coming in to the Irish Open, some of the WISPA girls would have competed in four tournaments within a span of six weeks, from the CIMB Malaysian Open and CIMB Singapore Masters in July to The Australian Open and Hong Kong Open in August. The Irish Open would serve as a good preparation for the most anticipated event on the WISPA circuit—The Soho Square Women’s World Open in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt from 15 to 22 September 2010.

The number one seed - Madeline Perry

Like Irish coffee, the women’s draw has a rather interesting mix of players. Seeded number one is none other than the Irish flag-bearer, Madeline Perry who is the newly crowned Australian Open 2010 Champion. Madeline overcame amongst others, Jenny Duncalf and Alison Waters to achieve the biggest win of her career. The Irish number one should be in good form and be highly motivated as the tournament favourite.

Other top seeds that stand in Madeline’s way include Natalie Grainger who is currently regaining form after a long layoff due to an injury. Natalie has been steadily improving in the past few tournaments and will certainly be looking to nail this one. Laura Massaro, Samantha Teran and Vanessa Atkinson also have potential to add some extra spice to this mix with the possibility of creating some upsets.

The third seed of the tournament is certainly one to look out for – Natalie Grinham. Formerly World No. 2 and a long-standing nemesis of current World No. 1 Nicol David, Natalie is making her grand return to the squash circuit after taking a year off during her pregnancy and birth of her son, Kieran. Nat’s return is set to liven up this tournament as she seeks to reclaim her ranking and prepare for the World Open title which has been elusive to her so far.

Squash Stars ambassadors Annelize Naude, Aisling Blake and Alana Miller will also be contesting here. While the Irish folks have plenty to cheer for with Madeline and Aisling around, there’s lots of good squash to be witnessed as well. So do make your way to the Fitzwilliam Club in South Dublin to catch these exciting matches. Seats are limited and work on a first come, first serve basis. Entrance to all tournaments is FREE so hurry on!

[1] Madeline Perry (IRL) vs. Qualifier
[5] Samantha Teran (MEX) vs. Qualifier
[4] Laura Massaro (ENG) vs. Alana Miller (CAN)
[7] Sarah Kippax (ENG) vs. Qualifier
[8] Aisling Blake (IRL) vs. Qualifier
[3] Natalie Grinham (NED) vs. Annelize Naudé (NED)
[6] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) vs. Lauren Siddall (ENG)
[2] Natalie Grainger (USA) vs. Sharon Wee (MAS)

Click for larger view.

WISPA Board Announces New Beginning

The Women’s International Squash Players’ Association (WISPA) today announced the following new executive team to lead WISPA with immediate effect:

Natalie Grainger - Ready to take on new challenges!

1. Samantha Mueller – Chief Administration Officer (Sam.Mueller@wispa.net)

2. Tim Garner – Tour Director (Tim.Garner@wispa.net)

3. Stewart Binns – Broadcast & Development Consultant (stewartbinns@bigapemedia.com)

4. Ian Robinson – Special Projects (ianrobinson@ianrsports.co.uk)

Co-opted Board Members: Jenny Denyer (nee Tranfield) and Peter Goodman.

WISPA is extremely delighted to be able to count on the services of such a talented group of individuals, many of whom have had significant involvement in the world of squash, in addition to being experts in their field.

“We have been very fortunate to have had such strong interest shown during our search for a talented team,” said Natalie Grainger, the Association’s President. “I feel more confident than ever that we are now in a position to build on WISPA’s past success and lead Women’s Squash to new heights.”

In order to ensure a smooth transition to the new structure, the team will report into WISPA Chairman Ingrid Lofdahl-Bentzer to ensure continuity.

In addition to the new team, WISPA will also be moving offices to a prestigious new address in London:

WISPA
The Queen’s Club, Centenary Building
Palliser Road
London W14 9EQ

Phone: +44 207 381 2246
Fax: +44 207 386 0039
Email: info@wispa.net
Website: www.wispa.net

Phone lines will be active Friday Aug 6th. Please call +44 7818 556778 for assistance before Friday

“This represents a significant milestone in WISPA’s history,” added Ingrid Lofdahl-Bentzer, WISPA Chairman. “We are excited about the new team and the new beginning at Queen’s Club and we look forward to welcoming all the WISPA family and friends to our new home in London.”

Today’s quarter final at the Singapore Masters 2010 saw all the tops seeds through—as predicted. Tomorrow, Nicol David will meet Madeline Perry; and so the question on everyone’s lips—will Madeline succeed in a repeat of the British Open last year? Or will Nicol, prevail? It is safe to say that with a head-to-head count of 5 to 1, luck might favour the Penangite instead. “I bounced back quickly from that defeat and went on to win the World Open right after that. Right now, I’m feeling fit and am staying focused for the next match,” said David. But who’s to say, Madeline won’t cause an upset?

While the Perry vs David game is probably going to be the highlight of the semi final tomorrow, Rachael Grinham vs Alison Waters will not be any less interesting to watch. What intrigues us is while Rachael IS seeded higher than Alison, the former world champion has been losing ground to the English lass in their last few meets—losing in straight sets. “Alison creamed me in our last three or four matches, and she’s in pretty good form. So I’m in for another tough match tomorrow.”

Could it be different this time round? It is possible for Rachael to turn the table on Alison, as she has had some very easy games—one would consider them warm ups to playing Alison. Alison, on the other hand has been playing very well this season and if she is focused tomorrow, there is no stopping her.

Rachael, looking determined to play her best tomorrow. Photo courtesy of www.chroniclepeople.com

What happened in the Quarter Final:

Madeline Perry denies Annie Au a place in the Semi Final.

Madeline Perry (IRL) (6) bt Annie Au (HKG) (Q)
9-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-4 (54m)
Madeline wore a different attire today as opposed to her customary blue outfit. White and maroon seemed to work well for her as she came back from a game down against a fighting Annie Au. The first game saw Annie moving around the court well, pushing Perry around and not only was Perry tired of all the running, she wasn’t too happy with some of the calls made by the the referees.

Annie started off the second game 3-0 with beautiful drop shots—all irretrievable by Perry but she didn’t stay down for long. Perry came back strongly to take the game in extra points and went on to win the next two games as Annie seemed to have wore out by the fourth game. A good run for the young player from Hong Kong and good on Perry to make it into yet another semi final.

Alison Waters (ENG) (3) bt Camille Serme (FRA)
12-10, 11-3, 9-11, 11-6 (43m)

This match started off with very close competition between the two ladies, with Alison coming out on top 12-10. The second game started with continuous tins by Serme, giving Alison a 5-1 lead. Serme’s energy levels seemed to have plunged from the first game. She made many unforced errors and was seen tapping her head with her racquet in frustration. Firmly placed at the ‘T’, Alison controlled the game well and won the second game comfortably.

Camille had to make a comeback in the third game and rushed off to a 5-2 lead. With some errors from Alison this time, Camille sealed the game 11-9 with a nice crosscourt nick. Although Camille seemed to have better control in the fourth game, the tired looking Frenchwoman went down slowly to Alison, 4-7, 4-9 and bowed out 6-11.

Rising star, Camille Serme looking to close the gap with the top seeds. Photo courtesy of www.chroniclepeople.com

Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) bt Natalie Grainger (USA) (5)
11-5, 11-3, 11-7 (20m)

With two ex-world champions on court, Rachael Grinham comes out on top, recording the shortest match time, again! “It was never going to be a long match with Natalie,” said Rachael, “she always goes for her shots and even if we went to five games it would be quick.” Looking in good shape, Rachael’s movements were fluid and didn’t seem to be affected much by Natalie’s attacks as the world number three stretched herself in various corners of the court, picking up most of Natalie’s shots.

In the third game, Natalie seemed flustered and wasn’t going for as many balls as she had in the first two games. The overall pace of this match was slower than the previous two matches and Rachael had a rather comfortable win to cruise into the semi final. Rachael is set to face world number four, Alison Waters in the semis tomorrow.

Nicol David (MAS) (1) bt Kasey Brown (AUS) (7)
11-7, 11-5, 11-6 (40m)

In the first half of the game, Nicol took control of the rallies, leading the game but Kasey did well to come back into the game but went down 7-11. As Kasey stumped around in the second, Nicol raced up to a 5-0 lead. A very persistent Kasey worked hard at retrieving all the shots by the world champion, catching up from behind as Nicol’s lead grew wider. An obviously flustered Kasey commented after, ”at times it felt like I had to win the rallies several times over just to win a point!”

Nicol was the dominating factor in the third game, with a huge 7-1 lead over Kasey. Rallies were shorter and Nicol seemed to be rushing to wrap up the game. Kasey gained momentum, catching up to 5-7. From then on, the game went Nicol’s way with some hard and low drives to the back. With that, Nicol booked her spot in the semis with a 11-6 win.

Tough game for Kasey. Photo courtesy of www.chroniclepeople.com

Live scores will be posted on www.facebook.com/SquashStars

The Semi Final line up (Matches to start at  7:00PM SGT):

Alison Waters (ENG) (3) vs Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2)

Nicol David (MAS) (1) vs Madeline Perry (IRL) (6)

Last match was played at 10:30pm to a full house. Great crowd.

We begin our live coverage today!
Live scores will be posted on www.facebook.com/SquashStars

It begins downunder!

Kasey Brown (AUS) [7] bt Jaclyn Hawkes (NZL)
11-3, 12-14, 11-6, 11-7 (55m)
The first match in Round 1 of the main draw went according to seeding with Kasey Brown’s win over her  trans-Tasman neighbour—Jaclyn Hawkes. It was not an easy win with Jaclyn stretching Kasey in the second game in a close battle with some long rallies. Kasey now moves on to the quarter finals to meet current world champion, Nicol David.

Annie Au (HKG) [Q] bt Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) [4]
7-11, 11-7, 4-11, 11-9, 11-9 (46m)
Annie Au provided the first and only upset of the day by beating Omneya. The young Hong Kong star played some good shots at the front of the court while Omneya kept moving the ball behind. Annie had some fantastic dead shots aimed at the back of the court causing the veteran Egyptian to fall prey to it, numerous times. Kawy still looked a little tired from her matches last week but credit is due to Annie who showed maturity and calmness in steering her way through to the quarter final. “I was nervous in the first game and could not catch Omneya’s shots. But I told myself not to give up and just concentrate and play a good game.” Well done, Annie!

Madeline Perry (IRL) [6] bt Low Wee Wern (MAS) [Q]
12-10, 5-11, 11-1, 11-5 (36m)
Wee Wern started out strong pushing the sixth seed into extra points in the first game and came back from one set down to win the second. Madeline stepped up her game in the third and fourth games, leaving Wee Wern a little misplaced. The lack of depth from some of Wee Wern’s shots and some errors from her in the last two games allowed the Irishwoman to win the match without having to go for a decider. Madeline will meet Hong Kong’s sole survivor and wonder kid—Annie Au in tomorrow’s line up.

Alison through to the quarters.

Alison Waters (ENG) [3] bt Rebecca Chiu (HKG) [Q]
11-2, 11-6, 11-9 (26m)
The game started off with Alison taking charge, not allowing Rebecca to do much—it went very quickly to the Englishwoman at 11-2 in the first set. The second game was more evened out with Rebecca taking the lead at some points of the game but Alison proved too strong and did well to overcome her opponent. The third game was very entertaining as both players tried to constantly outdo each other. Both were taking the balls early and Alison seemed to be doing some ballet moves on court, reaching out for the ball from afar with her racquet outstretched. Rebecca had a much better performance in the third game but it wasn’t enough to stave off the Englishwoman as Alison took the third game 11-9.

Camille Serme (FRA) [8] bt Donna Urquhart (AUS)
11/7, 11/3, 6/11, 10/12, 11/8 (48m)
In the first game, it was all about Camille. As always, there were lots of stretches and some splits from the French star (who I suspect will make a good gymnast too!). First two games went Camille’s way but in the third game, the leftie from Australia stepped up the pace to take the game 11-6. The fourth game was entertaining with the ball being placed at all four corners of the court by both girls with Donna prevailing in extra points. Camille went the extra mile in the fifth game with a very determined stance. Donna tinned a few shots and clawed her way back but lost out 11-8 in the end. Strong play by both girls! Camille faces Alison Waters in the quarter final.

Natalie Grainger (USA) [5] bt Delia Arnold (MAS) [Q]
8-11, 7-11, 11-2, 11-7, 11-2 (45m)
Delia took the first two games off WISPA’s principal and seemed to be the stronger contender, likely to win in three games. But in the third game, Natalie avenged with some forceful shots and took a quick 5-0 lead—whitewashing Delia 11-2! There were numerous strokes given to Natalie in the last two games as Delia seemed to be making more errors, hitting the ball towards herself. She seemed a little out of focus, losing quickly in the fifth game to a more experienced Grainger. “I haven’t played much lately, so it was a matter of finding the right shots and getting the fluidity back, and even adjusting to seeing the ball early. I’m really pleased to be able to come back into the game with a change of tactics, and simply hitting the ball a little deeper.”

Both Delia and Wee Wern were probably experiencing fatigue from their long games yesterday. They have done well to make it to Round 1 and we will definitely be seeing more of these young Malaysians in tournaments to come.

Rachael Grinham (AUS) [2] bt Pamela Chua (SIN)
11-3, 11-2, 11-3 (18m)
This match seemed like a formality to Rachael, rounding up the game in merely 18 minutes! Pamela had an uphill task against the former world number one who was moving well around the court and seemed at ease all through the match. Pamela, the wild card entrant to this tournament, put up a fight in the first two games but by the third, she seemed to have taken a back seat with Rachael taking full control of the match. Rachael kindly commented, “There were no easy points, Pamela was in the rallies and I couldn’t let up for a minute. She moves and hits well but she’s got to play more of these matches to get used to the intensity.”

The home crowd was also very supportive with “oohs” and “aahs” each time Pamela played a good shot. Kudos to the crowd for their encouragement!

Raneem steals a set of top seed, Nicol David. Photo with thanks to www.chroniclepeople.com

Nicol David (MAS) [1] bt Raneem El Weleily (EGY)
8-11, 11-5, 11-7, 11-4 (42m)
This match was expected to be exciting as Raneem stunned some top seeds just last week at the Malaysian Open. In the first game, Raneem raced to a quick start over the World Champion with a 6-1 lead. Nicol caught up but was still scrambling around the court and lost the first game 8-11. The Egyptian youngster seemed to be on track to create another upset. Perhaps it was the Katong Laksa she had earlier, Nicol’s movement became more fluid and she began to read Raneem’s game better. Raneem, who is known for her perseverance on court, did a fantastic job retrieving most of Nicol’s killer shots but went down fighting to the world number one.

Nicol commented, “She played really well—she was literally firing for all the shots in the first game. It took me awhile to actually get into it. When it came to the second game, I just got a bit more feel of the ball and was hitting the ball better; she slowly made some errors and gave me a better edge to start off each set.”

Live scores will be posted on www.facebook.com/SquashStars

Quarter final line up. (Matches to start at  6:30PM SGT)

Nicol David (MAS) (1) vs Kasey Brown (AUS) (7)

Annie Au (HKG) (Q) vs Madeline Perry (IRL) (6)

Camille Serme (FRA) vs Alison Waters (ENG) (3)

Natalie Grainger (USA) (5) vs Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2)