National Leagues attract 13 new players

The third round of the national leagues, organised by Malta Squash, has just started with a record number of entries.

There were 13 new players signing up for the next round taking the total to 55 competitors.

Malta Squash league competitions have registered consistent progress month after month and this latest increase in numbers shows once again the ever growing popularity of the game on our shores.

In a brief statement, national coach Paul Lake explained that players are now in a better position to take part in competitive matches on a regular basis. They also have ample time to play matches and that, perhaps, is one of the reasons the league is becoming so popular.

The National Leagues see the participation of beginners and experienced players including those who figure for the national squad.

Competition is as fierce among the newcomers as it is in higher categories, Lake said.

At present, there are 10 women in the competition, the highest number ever, with top seed Johanna Rizzo leading the way in Division Two and four making their debut in Division Nine.

Malta's leading junior player, Mark Seychell, is also looking to make progress through the leagues and is aiming to mix it with the best by the end of the year.