Squash Gets a Smashing Revival in Harare

Patience Muchemwa

Zim Now Reporter

Get ready for some thrilling rallies and high-octane competition! Harare is about to witness the birth of a brand new squash league courtesy of NM Squash Pros.

This exciting initiative, the first of its kind in the area, promises to usher in a new era for the sport, fostering camaraderie and competition among players of all levels.

Mark your calendars for July 6th, because that's when the action begins! The highly anticipated league welcomes both ladies and U23 boys, providing a vibrant platform for squash enthusiasts to showcase their skills and battle it out for glory. Electrosales Hardware steps up as the proud sponsor, making this league a reality.

In an interview with Zim Now, Nishyto Munyoro, the founder and director of NM Squash Pros, expressed his vision for the league. He sees it as a significant step towards reviving squash not only within Harare, but across Zimbabwe as a whole. The initiative goes beyond just friendly competition; it aims to reignite passion for the sport and cultivate a new generation of talented players.

"We want to develop squash within Harare and Zimbabwe," says Munyoro. "Squash has kind of been a minor sport, and during COVID it really suffered because it was seen as high-risk. A lot of people stopped playing after the lockdowns. So our goal is to bring squash back to life. We want to raise awareness and get people excited again. The best way to do that is to promote competition at all levels."

But NM Squash Pros isn't just about following the traditional path. They've adopted a unique approach, recognising the powerful influence mothers have on their children's development. By introducing a ladies league, they hope to introduce a whole new demographic to the sport. These women will not only discover the joys and health benefits of squash, but they'll also be perfectly positioned to introduce their children to the game, fostering a thriving squash community from the grassroots level.

"Mothers are the ones who raise us and teach us so much," explains Munyoro.

"That's why we knew the ladies league was crucial. If we want to develop squash, we need to start young. And the best way to get the juniors involved is through their moms. We want women to learn more about squash, experience the competition, and understand the amazing health benefits. Then they can introduce their kids to the sport, and that's where we'll see real growth. We're not forgetting about the dads, though!

The Mashonaland Squash Rackets Association already has a league for them."

The U23 category addresses another critical area: youth development. NM Squash Pros recognises the importance of providing young adults with a platform to stay active and engaged in competitive sports after they graduate from school. These weekend matches offer a flexible and accessible option, perfect for students, working professionals, and anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle. Squash becomes more than just a game; it becomes a tool to combat drug abuse and negative influences that often plague young people during this transitional phase.