Squash Ireland have outlined why its sport “remains one of the most exciting and inclusive” in the country following a past year described as “a time of change” in how it delivers core activities for its membership.
Next Sunday will see the 20th annual general meeting of the governing body take place at the Sport Ireland Campus in Dublin’s Blanchardstown. Ahead of that gathering, a comprehensive 96-page annual report – including financial statements – has been published.
While income for 2024 was €903,560, marginally down from the 2023 figure of €916,069, a surplus of €2,408 was generated compared to a deficit of €14,930 the previous year.
In her two-page reflection, Squash Ireland president Rosie Barry highlighted the August 2024 mid-term review of the Connecting the Dots 2022-2027 strategic plan.
She also praised the professionalising of the organisation under the baton of CEO Scott Graham while also referencing the “essential support” that continued to be provided by “countless volunteers” throughout Ireland.
“Our strategic plan, Connecting the Dots 2022-2027, remains central to the core activities of our organisation. From a governance perspective since our last AGM, the board’s function is now strategic rather than operational and our skills base is strengthened by the addition of two independent directors.
“This is an exciting and very important new development for Squash Ireland and I would like to welcome Susan Kelly and Kevin Ahern to our board. Rose Hynes, a member of the squash community, is also a very welcome addition to the board and further enhances our essential skillset.
“The Strategic Delivery Group (SDG) completed a mid-term review of our strategic plan in August 2024 which confirms that we are on target for many of the objectives under each of the six pillars.
“We remain committed to developing a national centre despite not being successful in our application for the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, noting that there was an unprecedented demand for such funding in 2024.
“Our office staff, under the leadership of CEO Scott Graham, has expanded significantly to deliver on the operational needs of Squash Ireland. This marks our commitment to further professionalising our organisation.
“The past year was a time of change for us in how we deliver on core activities for our membership. I thank all our volunteers for their understanding and patience as we all adjust to these changes and also for their feedback which helps to inform our decision-making.
“Although staffing levels have increased, we will always remain reliant on the countless volunteers who provide essential support at club, provincial and national level. We continue to work on how best to support and enhance our volunteer network and the Interprovincial Forum is vital in this regard.”
After sifting through an extensive list of on-court achievements across the various playing categories, including the “impressive results” achieved on the international stage, Barry concluded her 2024 reflection by adding: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of Squash Ireland in the past year.
“Your hard work, passion, and commitment to the sport are truly appreciated. I would like to extend my gratitude to the board, our CEO and staff, coaches, referees, volunteers, and, of course, our players for your dedication and effort.
“I am confident that with your continued support, Squash Ireland will continue to thrive and grow, ensuring that squash remains one of the most exciting and inclusive sports in the country.”
