Meet the Athlete

meet the athlete king of the court

Geoffrey Yee details how The Arbutus Club has helped nurture his love for squash and why he stays committed to his craft

If you frequent the Squash Lounge chances are you'll bump into Geoffrey Yee perfecting his swing. Working with coaches Drew Henderson and Matthew Toth, Geoffrey has become a staple on the courts, volunteering in Club squash camps and clinics, as well as competing in the U17 division. With a goal of going top 20 in Canada within his age group, Geoffrey is well on his way to becoming a leader in squash, and is a fantastic ambassador for The Arbutus Club.

When did you first start playing or participating in squash?

Geoffrey: I started playing squash around 4 years ago when I was eleven. I worked very hard to reach the level of skill I'm at today, as most of the people I compete with have been playing squash for 10 years or more.

What is your favourite part of your sport?

G: I love going to tournaments, travelling to other cities, playing with people from all over the country, and making new friends. In addition, I enjoy the physical and mental challenge of the game.

How have you adapted to changes in squash throughout the pandemic?

G: As I wasn't able to compete with other juniors or do team training, I solo practiced 3-5 times per week, practiced with a ball machine, continued one-on-one lessons with the pros, and undertook a fitness regime. My goal was to focus on technique improvement, learn more game strategy and improve my strength and endurance. Although the pandemic disrupted regular practice routines, I still managed to come out of it a better squash player.

Meet the Athlete

What aspect of your sport has inspired you to stay committed throughout this year?

G: My passion for the sport and personal commitment to be my best self has kept me motivated to keep training throughout the pandemic. Eventually, squash tournaments will be starting up again, and I want to be able to resume the circuit seamlessly.

How is participating in squash unique at the Club?

G: The people at The Arbutus Club are what make it unique. I play with many of the adult members who push me to improve and play at a higher level. I also have the opportunity to volunteer with junior squash camps and clinics, where I can give back to my community and the sport I love.

What skill have you mastered in squash that assists you in other areas of your daily life?

G: Patience and discipline are skills that I have developed and improved through squash. To be a great squash player, these qualities are essential. One must have patience while playing a match, as well as during practice. Discipline is also needed because in order to improve, doing the hard work of repetitive practice is necessary to master a skill. These traits have helped in other areas of my life including school, other sports, and in my interactions with people.

In your opinion, what is the key to perseverance in sports?

G: I think that having passion, a positive mindset, and goals are key to perseverance in sport. One must love the game to persist through the challenges of sport. More importantly, looking towards long term goals and focusing on the process, rather than the result, will carry one through the ups and downs of competitive sport. Are there any teammates, partners, opponents, coaches, staff, or trainers at The Arbutus Club that have positively enhanced your Squash experience? How so?

G: My coaches Drew and Matthew have been great teachers and mentors. They have supported me through ups and downs, shared their personal experiences, and have provided me with invaluable guidance on and off the court. In addition, the community has also been phenomenal, allowing me to participate in their practices and games, as well as being so positive.

What is your goal for the upcoming season?

G: I hope that by the end of this upcoming season I can be in the top 20 in Canada in the U17 division. If you could describe playing/participating in Squash with one word what would it be?

G: Exhilarating. ♦

in the South Gymnasium