Revival of a lost sport

Squash Tennis was the forerunner of the now popular modern game of squash and was played predominantly in clubs and universities in the north eastern states of America but declined in popularity before the Second World War.

Squash Tennis was exported to England in 1905 when a wealthy American, Charles Garland, settled in the area and built a Real Tennis court in the village of Moreton Morrell. As part of his new complex, he included a Squash Tennis court, which is roughly the same size as a squash court but constructed of wood. Players used lawn tennis type rackets and balls.

The court fell into disrepair until last year when, as chairman of Moreton Morrell Tennis Club Andrew Hamilton explains: “Many members felt it was time to revitalise the court and a number of events were held to raise money for the extensive works needed. This is the only Squash Tennis court in existence in the UK so in Olympics year it is satisfying to be reviving a game of such historic interest.”

The club is holding what is believed to be the first ever National Squash Tennis Championships this weekend (July 14-15) when many club members will be vying for the opportunity to win a national title.