In line with our strategic plan, Connecting the Dots (2022 – 2027), Irish squash have rolled out several coaching courses over the past few months to facilitate the uptake of squash coaches in Ireland.
In the last 4 months, 29 coaches have successfully graduated the level-1 course. These freshly graduated coaches will receive WSF & Sport Ireland coaching certificates highlighting their achievement. These courses have taken place right across Ireland including Sligo, Belfast, Cork & Dublin, ensuring that this qualification is not restricted by geographical vicinity. Indeed, Irish Squash are hoping to commence rolling out level-2 courses in the near future for any coach wishing to progress their qualifications one step further!
Growing our coaching tree is a very positive step for the organisation and for the sport of squash in our nation. With that in mind, Scott Graham, Irish Squash CEO, said ““Coaching is a key pillar within our Strategic Plan, and I am delighted to see so many newly qualified coaches”. Scott hailed the work carried out by Coach Education Officer, Eddie Murphy, saying “Eddie has been leading our Coach Development and Education program and recently succeeded in establishing the Irish Squash Level 1 Coaching Qualification on the Sport Ireland Coaching Framework. This is a welcome endorsement of the course’s quality and a testament to the hard work of the volunteer workforce that has driven this initiative forward”.
Eddie himself noted that he is delighted with the progress, with his ultimate goal being to have at least one level-1 qualified coach in each club. Going forward, Eddie is excited about continuing his good work and rolling out the level-2 courses. This was echoed by Scott, saying “Next, we turn our attention to increasing the number of coaches so that every club has access to a qualified coach, in addition to developing the Level 2 Qualification and ensuring its recognition on the Sport Ireland Coaching Framework”. Scott further added, “Alongside the formal qualifications, we are hosting what I hope will become an annual National Coaching Conference on September 9th. This promises to be a great opportunity for continuous professional development and a chance to meet and share ideas with other coaches. The level of interest from coaches around the country is really encouraging to see.“
A massive thank you must be given to Eddie Murphy, our coach education officer and all 4 tutors who deliver these coaching courses on a regular basis.
