The St Bede's squash team has made a strong return, and two former Bedeans have plans to revive the sport to its former glory.

The four-strong team performed well at the Canterbury Secondary Schools' Individuals Tournament, securing second place overall.

Benjamin Robb (Year 9) demonstrated his huge potential and skill by claiming second place in Division 1, going down to Charlie Prince (Year 13) from Boys' High in an entertaining final.

Ashton Fisher (Year 11) showed excellent fitness and agility to finish third, and Ben Ling (Year 9) performed impressively in Division 1, ending up in seventh place.

Bryn Fisher (Year 10) pulled off a stunning comeback in an epic encounter with Boys' High. He came from two sets down to win third place in Division 2.

This was an exceptional re-entry into secondary schools' squash. And with such a young team, it bodes well for the future. Next up is the South Island champs in June. 

Why has Squash at St Bede’s disappeared and then reappeared?

The first mention of squash at St Bede’s appears in the late 1970s. It was a popular sport from its early beginnings with students, staff and even some Old Boys making use of the squash courts. 

Twenty-six years ago, St Bede's Squash team was a force to be reckoned with.

But when an earthquake put the school's courts out of action over a decade ago, the sport gradually disappeared.

Kevin Milne and Mark Ling, former St Bede’s squash team members, both have very fond memories from playing in the national and South Island events as well as inter-school exchanges with Marlborough Boys' High.

And the pair are very keen to get squash back on the map.

Looking to the future

Mark Ling said the goal is to revive squash at St Bede's, making it accessible and enjoyable for all regardless of whether their interest is recreational, competitive, or as a supplementary activity for other sports.

They are also excited to facilitate a pathway for those who want to excel in squash and see St Bede’s regularly compete in inter-school tournaments. Mr Ling said he would love to see Bedeans create great memories and friendships in their time in the sport, just like he did.

The pair have already run an open session at Christchurch Football Squash Club, which was a success, with both beginners and experienced players enjoying the sport.

Mr Ling said this marks the beginning of an exciting journey. "We encourage more boys to join us on Tuesday afternoons. Give squash a try and see how it can boost your fitness and coordination, or simply as a fun new sport to play socially." 

If you are interested in having a go at squash, please contact Mark Ling on 021 864 229.