It may surprise some to learn that the sport of squash is alive and thriving in Logan City.
Indeed, at a club in Daisy Hill, you can bump into some of the state’s premier athletes showing their skills on a weekly basis.
Two club members in action
The Daisy Hill Squash and Racquet Club began in 1977, at a time when it was just one of many squash clubs across the Logan region.
Now, due to a combination of factors, and despite boasting nearly 1000 members, it’s the only one left.
The success of the club can be attributed to a revamp of the sport.
When going down to the club, you will find any preconceptions blown away the moment you walk through the door and enter a community of people from all walks of life
Althou_gh the facilities haven’t changed much since opening day in 1977, the club’s junior training program is second to none in combining unique methods of improvisation and fun in practice.
It’s believed to be the only sporting program in the world to combine two sports that are vastly different from one another – Brazilian jiujitsu and squash.
Kids train equally in both programs from the age of 6 until about 14, as well as training using the club’s fitness equipment.
It’s a testament to the success of Bradley Hindle’s program that most end up choosing to stay with squash.
The ex Maltese Commonwealth Games representative in squash and Logan resident says he’s proud to help contribute to the growth of the sport that has given him so much.
”I had a vision when I came here, I had people that joined in on that vision, and it’s got it’s own identity now. I’m just holding the reins, while people provide their own ideas and drive”
He’s happy that people travel from places such as Kingscliff in Northern New South Wales to play at his club.
Bradley Hindle
“We’ve developed an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable, they’re happy learning, and they get used to that feeling of community while they improve”
“What we sell is value for money. The parent can pay $220 per term and they’ll get unlimited access to our courts and one or two group lessons with the kids.
“We have 6 accredited coaches, it’s a healthy environment, and a safe environment. The parents know that they can learn and exercise as well.
“We have our Happy Tappers which is a kid that comes in from 4-7 just tapping a ball on their racquet.
“Then we have our Happy Rollers, which is our kid’s kiujitsu program. When they get a little bit older we go into a junior development program, from 8 years old to 13-14.
“From that, we’ve got our elite junior program and and professional program for those aged 19 and above, who I teach the skills that I learned when I was a professional”
“We actually have a professional tournament on Tuesday nights that people can come down and watch. It’s top 100 level in the world squash”
The club boasts the services of Malaysian professional Bryan Lim, stuck in Australia due to COVID, but loving the opportunity to pass his knowledge on to the next generation of Logan kids.
Parents say they enjoy the opportunities their child gets to learn and grow as a person, make friends and have fun. It also gives them another outlet to connect with their child.
The precinct also has its own cafe, at the reception desk, which is well regarded by club members.
Brad says that that benefits of squash are manifold, and extend throughout your life.
“I know people that have played squash for 50, 60 years, they’ve kept themselves fit at the gym, and they are some of the fittest people at that age that I know, not just in body but in mind as well”
