Hobby puts Dwayne into top set
A SPORTS-MAD youngster who took up squash just three years ago is now ranked among the top 10 players of his age in the country. Dwayne McIntosh, 13, was looking for a new hobby when he was invited to squash practice at Moss Side Leisure Centre. Within a few sets he was hooked - and has now become one of Manchester Squash Academy's hottest talents.
Dwayne, from Moss Side, has played in the Welsh Open and represented the region in the inter-area squash championships. His younger brothers, Nathan, 10, and Jordan, eight, have been inspired to follow in his footsteps. Dwayne, who goes to Trinity C of E high School, is also a keen basketball player and plays for Fletcher Moss, Fallowfield Town and Rising Stars. He said: "I love the speed of squash, it keeps me fit. I also get to travel the country playing, which I enjoy." His mum, Amanda, said: “I'm so proud of him - he always gives 100 per cent. He takes it to heart when he loses but I always tell him you have to lose sometimes to learn."
Dwayne has been coached under the Manchester Squash Development Programme, which introduces 8,000 youngsters a year to the sport.
It is the biggest scheme of its kind and links school seesions with after-school practice and benifits from expert coaching and links to elite academies. Each year the National Squash Championships - the biggest home event - comes to Sportcity in Manchester and encourages more youngsters to pick up a racket.
The £3.5m National Squash Centre at Sportscity boasts the world’s only glass-wall show court, which floats on air like a hovercraft and can be moved for major tournaments. Nick Taylor, head coach, said: “Dwayne was ranked ninth in the country in the under-13 category and, by keeping at it, will do well in his new, under–14 category. “Technically he’s sound and he’s a good athlete with geat hand–eye co–ordination and a lot of potential.”
the National Squash Championships come to Manchester for a week from February 11. There are coaching sessions across Manchester: Call Taro Nabetani on 0161 220 3810.
Friday 2nd February, 2007 (Manchester Metro News)
