Squash

Figure Skating Squash

cleta brown sandra garossino

having a ball

Our Squash Pro, Drew Henderson, sat down with some of our most avid squash players to discuss their favourite aspects of the sport

Drew Henderson began as the Head Squash Pro late last year and has since gotten to know many of our squash players. Many of the Club's biggest enthusiasts range in not only skill, but in age and athletic background. In discussion with program participants, the common thread of inclusivity and love for the game binds many in squash together.

Cleta Brown & Sandra Garossino

High energy on the courts and always willing to learn something new, Sandra and Cleta are a blast to work with. Their positive attitudes and willingness to try new drills allows them to have fun while improving their games.

When did you first start playing squash and how did you get into the sport? Sandra: I first started playing squash about 3 years ago, on and off. Cleta: I couldn’t get into any tennis classes, so someone recommended I try squash. So glad I did!

What is your favourite shot to play? Sandra: My favourite hits the front wall, but Drew says to put down cross-court nick! Cleta: My favourite shot is the “Nice Get!” because returning any shot makes me happy.

Which Arbutus Club member do you enjoy winning a match against most? Sandra: I love to play with Cleta Brown, win or lose.

Cleta: I enjoy winning a match against Sandra Garossino. She is a cheerful sort and the only member I can beat.

What do you love about playing squash? Sandra: It is great cardio. Plus, it's great for agility and mental acuity. Because I'm getting older now! Cleta: It’s fun, fast, and furious. You cannot think about anything else – it’s totally distracting, which is a good thing these days!

The most difficult part? Sandra: Getting started while thinking this game is for experts only (it's not). Cleta: The hardest part of playing is the cardio! It’s also the best part...

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Squash

Daniel Tiwana

It’s rare to see a young player with such determination and work ethic. While most were taking a break from squash during the pandemic, Daniel and his dad built an impromptu squash court in their garage and trained every day. Daniel is excited to continue competing at a high junior level again and just got a full squash sponsorship from Eye Rackets. Hard work pays off.

When did you first start playing squash and how did you get into the sport? Aged 7. I would hang around the courts because my dad loves playing.

Which Arbutus Club member do you enjoy winning a match against most? It was my dad until it became a bit too easy to beat him.

What do you love about playing? The adrenaline rushes. The strategy: constructing a rally. Winning!

What is the hardest part of playing? It’s the ultimate individual sport. You’re like a gladiator out there. The only friends you have on court are the four walls, so get to know them well.

Simon Holland

Simon is a true gentleman on the court and off. He loves the game, competition and is such a valued member of the Squash community. Watch out for his cheeky drop shots!

When did you first start playing squash and how did you get into the sport? I first played in Africa in a converted tobacco barn but soon gave that up and started playing on a regular basis when I joined The Arbutus Club.

What is your favourite shot to play? Any shot that gets me a point!

Which Arbutus member do you enjoy winning a match against most? Any of our 4 children, but it’s getting harder...I need more of Drew's lessons!

Favourite thing about squash? Everything! The fun, exercise, friendship, and anything to avoid the boring gym.

What is the hardest part of playing? Not playing. Please remember to wear your eye protection as I want to see you all on the courts and not at the hospital.

Marc Kazimirski

Marc is our top ranked Arbutus Squash player and we are incredibly lucky to have his talent here. Squash Pro, Drew has had many good battles with him over the years, including the longest game Drew has ever played.

When did you first start playing squash and how did you get into the sport? I started playing in law school and began playing seriously when I joined the Club in 2000. I had a great mentor, John Furlong, who would routinely hammer (and heckle) me on the squash court.

Why do you love squash? Squash is like a moving game of chess – each shot sets up the remainder of the point and involves a lot of strategy. This requires intense focus and I love that I am not thinking about anything else when I am playing squash. Finally, squash is one of the most physically demanding sports I have played.

What is the hardest part of playing? I am getting older and slower – I remember racing around the court with limitless energy and now I need to be more thoughtful if I am going to have any chance of winning.