EIGHT squash players from Coffs Harbour Squash Club enjoyed a triumphant road trip to Parkes last weekend competing in the Western Silver Squash Tournament.

Thirteen-year-old Maddison Nargar won the girls under 19s competition, a remarkable achievement for the Coffs Harbour High School student who played up two age groups after returning from injury.

Eleven-year-old Jaida Wigley from Narranga Public School won her first junior tournament overcoming Ella Matthews from ACT winning 3-2 in the final.

It was an all round stellar weekend for Coffs Harbour High School students Lachlan Walmsley, Emily Nargar and Wyatt Brain finishing fourth, sixth and sixth in their respective age groups.

Dylan Wigley from Orara High School finished third in the boys under 13s, Bodhi Wratten from Korora finished fifth in the under 11s and Jayden Sparkes from Nambucca finished fourth in the under 15s.

NSW Junior State Development coach Jemma Wratten praised the team’s performance.

“The Western Silver Tournament was the first junior silver ranking tournament for 2023,” she said.

“There are only four silver events during the year and the players were competing for Australian junior squash tour ranking points.

“The Coffs Harbour juniors had fantastic results across the board, everyone played well.

“The girls under 15s, 17s and 19s combined into one event.

“Madison Nargar excelled in the final to defeat Sophie Simpson from Western, a very strong performance for a thirteen-year-old playing up two age groups.

“Jaida Wigley bounced back from 2-1 down to take the title in the under 13s girls.”

The Coffs juniors now turn their attention to two events on their home turf, the Bronze One Day Enduro event in February and another Silver event in March.

The coach also has her eye on this year’s nationals in Melbourne.

“It’s a big year ahead for the juniors with a number of bigger events like the Australian Junior Open in April.

“They are training for the tournament, preparations and planning is underway.”

At the conclusion of the Parkes tournament, the juniors participated in a two-day training camp working on technique, fitness and match-play.

Jemma emphasised the benefits and social aspect of a road trip.

“Travelling to events in various locations gives the player experience of travel, different courts and weather.

“Players are able to see how they stand against other players in the state.

“Travelling away gives players a chance to make new friends, team building and the experience of travelling and playing away from home.

“The Coffs Harbour juniors would like to thank the ongoing support from the Korora Squash Club, local sponsors, club members and coaches who help raise funds to support the juniors in their chosen sport of squash,” concluded Jemma.