THREE sisters from Coffs Harbour are making a significant impact in the world of squash, having recently been selected for the NSW State Team and excelling at both State and National levels.

This Sister Act proudly represented NSW in the National Junior Championships held in October, securing a commendable third place overall, with only Victoria and Queensland ahead of them.

The youngest of the trio, 11-year-old Cleo Poulava, has had an outstanding season in individual events.

She claimed victory in the Girls Under 13s Queensland Junior Open and added the NSW Country Championships title to her collection last month.

Cleo’s recent transition to the Girls Under 13s category has already seen her ascend to an impressive sixth place in the national rankings.

As one of the youngest players in this division, her trajectory in the sport looks promising.

The eldest sister, Jada Poulava, has reached an impressive number 15 ranking in Australia in the Girls Under 19s division.

Despite being an avid Oztag player, Jada has seamlessly transferred her agility from the Oztag pitch to the squash court and has shown rapid all-round improvement.

Meanwhile, 14-year-old Eden Poulava holds a noteworthy seventh place ranking in Australia after a stellar 2023 season, marked by strong performances at both State and National tournaments.

The trio’s prowess on the squash court has also inspired their peers at Coffs Christian Community School, where their collective efforts led to victory in the Secondary Schools challenge.

The school entered a record total of five teams competing across multiple divisions.

Head coach at Coffs Harbour Squash and Swim Centre, Jemma Wratten said they have a very bright future.

“Their progress has been exceptional and I can see development every week,” she said.

“They are particularly strong at listening and adapting skills with an inner desire to improve their game by taking up challenging aspects for that finer improvement, they have very bright futures ahead.

“The girls train in squads but match practice each week is also important, where they all play in the adult competitions at the club.”

Looking ahead, the Sisters will be heading to Parkes in the new year to compete in the Western Junior Open followed by training at the NSW State Camp before they embark on a trip to Melbourne.

“Parkes is a great event to kick off the 2024 season with a Silver tournament and see where the girls are placed early in the year, followed by a two-day State Camp where they will work with State coaches.

“It will be a good lead up for the players and all eyes will be on the two Platinum events in Melbourne in April 2024 where the Australian Junior Open will be played followed by the Oceania Junior Championships the week after,” Wratten said.

By David WIGLEY