I confess, I too have grave concerns related to the management of our Game and have been known to pontificate (on this site) and over a cold beverage or two.
Our memories and attitudes concerning squash associations in many cases are probably entrenched and less than positive. In many (yes many) jurisdictions, I believe squash executives (bureaucrats) need to look in the mirror, examine their efforts, track-record and ask themselves if they have been effective? successful?
Might it be time to step aside so fresh blood, skills and approaches can be brought to bear on the challenges and opportunities facing our sport? Or will self-interest, retaining a title, paycheque, perks (such as attending squash conferences in a beautiful locale) be more important than stepping down for the good of the game?
That said, how often do we look for the positive and acknowledge the efforts of squash executives and associations that are trying to change, improve and innovate our sport, its structures and processes?
Might we need to re-examine our beliefs and biases and even entertain the possibility that there are some efforts and initiatives by some squash associations and their leadership that truly appear encouraging and progressive?
In my opinion, WISPA, England Squash and US Squash seem to be at the vanguard of good stewardship, change and innovation within the squash fraternity.
Among other efforts WISPA can be commended for their:
Patron's Club
Launch of Premiere Series
Efforts to be especially media friendly
Noteworthy at England Squash are
National Centre
Club Charter
Squash Development Officer & Membership Co-ordinator Roles
Recent initiative to Survey Squash Community
Speaking of US Squash, there are a number of iniatives, significant investments and systemic changes that I view sets this organization apart from its peers.
Launch of a New Technology Platform
Courage to move the Head Office
Re-branding and New Logo
Launch the Squash Professionals Affiliate (SPA) program
Innovation such as the Launch of Affinity Credit Card
Early signs at the PSA under new CEO Richard Graham and COO Alex Gough are extremely encouraging and efforts by Squash New Zealand also merit honourable mention.
Setting aside the above, I'd like to share below a Blog entry Google Alerts sent me. For me, the experiences of this technology vendor reinforces in my estimation that US Squash and specific individuals within the association "get it," walk the walk and get their hands dirty because they truly care.
I believe too often squash executives and organizations lose sight of what it is all about ... nurturing and growing the sport, serving existing players and exposing more people and getting them hooked on our great game. Too much time is spent developing grand plans, with little or no execution, follow-thru or sustainment.
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Last week, two of VanDamme's iMIS professionals-- Adam Carey, Junior Application Analyst, and Jeff Golembiewski, Senior Project Manager & Team Lead--traveled to New York City to kick off an iMIS implementation project with US Squash. Prior to the meeting, the organization let Adam and Jeff know that they would really like to have them learn to play squash and to be sure to pack non-marking sneakers (so as not to leave scuff marks on the court). Adam and Jeff expressed both excitement and nervousness about the thought of playing with the professionals on the staff. Jeff stated, "I was both excited and dreading it (referring to making a fool of himself)"
After stopping to pick up some non-scuffing tennis shoes at the store, Adam and Jeff made the drive to NYC where they stayed at a hotel on Van Dam street. Jeff remarked, "We took that as a good omen for the upcoming squash lesson."
The duo met with U.S. Squash last Wednesday all day and then it was time to hit the courts! They each remarked it was intimidating at first to see all of the professional squash players on the court. However, they knew they were in good hands! Conor O'Malley, Senior Event & Sponsorship Manager for U.S. Squash, showed Jeff and Adam some of the basic skills: basic rules, how to hold the racket, basic exercises & drills and swinging & hitting the ball. Jeff and Adam both agreed that Conor's mini-lesson helped some of the nervousness go away as they played against each other and other U.S Squash staff. Adam stated, "Once you get a feel for things, the high pace of the game really gets you into it."
They both left U.S.Squash with sore muscles and a greater appreciation for the organization. Jeff said, "It was a great experience to learn the basics for a day, see the organization from the constituent viewpoint and to spend time with a client in such a casual and fun atmosphere!"
Posted by Beth Pratt at 07/22/2008 10:46:55 AM
