SPORT OF THE MONTH – SQUASH

The Jordan Squash Federation was established in 1979 under the leadership of airline pilot, Captain Jawdat Abdel Moneim.
One of the early practitioners and supporters of the sport was His Royal Highness Prince Hassan Bin Talal, who is credited with developing squash through his support and honorary presidency of the federation.
Jordan was among the founding countries of the Asian Squash Federation, which was established in 1981, and in the same year, the first Asian Championships were hosted by Pakistan.
Jordan was also credited with forming the Arab Squash Federation in 1983 after several founding meetings in Amman, and the Kingdom was chosen as the federation’s headquarters until 1993.
The Jordan Squash Federation is located in Al-Hussein Youth City, and includes Al Hassan International Squash Centre, which contains six courts, including an arena that can accommodate 700 spectators. A second arena can host about 300 spectators.
Dr. Manal Taha, Secretary of the Federation, said that the Centre has helped to develop the sport in Jordan, whilst also hosting camps for national team players, as well as welcoming several Arab and international tournaments.
“The Hassan International Centre offers top quality coaching and guidance to players through distinguished coaches, so it has contributed largely to the sport’s growth,” Dr. Taha said.
The Federation is now focussed on identifying fresh talent to widen the sport’s playing base across all ages and levels.