Squash: David Lloyd coach Rachael Chadwick wins England call

Jun 17 2009 Ellesmere Port Pioneer

THE sticky heat of India is not the easiest environment for a young player making her international debut.

But that is what Rachael Chadwick faces after being selected for the England under 19s squad which flies out to Chennai next month for the World Championships.

Rachael, who works as a squash coach at David Lloyd Leisure on Stanney Lane, has never played abroad before, but she is looking forward to the experience.

“It is exciting because this is the first thing ever to happen to me in squash,” said the 18-year-old.

“I played badminton when I was young and came to squash when I was 14.

“I was at Chester Rugby Club, which is a men’s squash club – I was the only girl – but I learnt from the players and eventually played in the men’s league.

“They are my coaches and I feel more comfortable playing men, despite the fact they are more determined to beat me to save their own embarrassment!”

Having played league squash for some time, Rachael, who is completing a national diploma in sports therapy and personal training at Mid Cheshire College, began entering one-off tournaments this season where she was spotted by the England scouts.

Since then Rachael has been fitting training around her studies.

“I try to hit a ball every day and am rebuilding my fitness as studying has recently taken over from squash,” said Rachael, of Waverton, near Chester.

“It is tough but I will definitely be good for the World Championships.”

Rachael plans to have one more year as an amateur before considering turning professional.

She said: “I would like to turn pro but a lot of people do it too early and the senior players walk all over them.

“I’m going to see how things go for the next 12 months. before making a decision.”