Canadian 45+ Champ with finalist Trent Haase
Before talking about the match, I just want to say that here in Edmonton, in May, it is snowing outside. Ok – the match. My opponent, Trent Haase, put up a great fight. I won the 1st 11-3 playing very good, purposeful squash. Into the 2nd game, Trent changed up his game and started shooting – and he wasn’t missing. When someone suddenly starts shooting effectively there are several possible reactions – 1) keep playing steady waiting for your chances to shoot and be prepared to counter-punch off his shots; 2) beat him to the punch by shooting first; or 3) get very conservative and play to the back. I think the 1st option is usually best, but in this case I chose the 2nd option. Suddenly Trent was right back in it, and he was very effectively counter-punching on my premature attacks. He was up most of the game and had one or two game points. However, I luckily realized the errors of my ways and went back to playing purposeful squash. I won the second game 14-12, and then held a solid lead throughout the 3rd to win it 11-8. Trent was gracious throughout the match and had several family members who joined the rather large Canadian crowd to watch the match.
With my semi-final and quarterfinal opponents, Eric Raynor and Philip Bringloe
My Canadian adventure has been very satisfying but also eye-opening. It was a pleasure to see the Canadian Squash association and its membership in action. Aside from the point I have mentioned about flawless execution of the matches, I’d like to make several other observations. The squash center was packed with squash fans and family supporters – every court had a healthy and vocal crowd behind it. The Saturday evening banquet was packed – two large, full dining rooms. There was genuine camaraderie. When pro division 3rd place finisher Shawn Delierre went to receive his prize, he took a moment to say a few words, and simply said how much he enjoys these opportunities for the Canadian squash family to get together. There were nods of agreement throughout the room. And the socializing continued until well past the (rather late!) hour that I left. I appreciate the friendship extended to an American at this tournament, and I very much look forward to returning to Canada next year for these championships.