The Queen’s Club Foundation are delighted to announce that its outreach programme for local schools in Hammersmith & Fulham has resulted in The Queen’s Club being shortlisted for Club/Venue of the Year in the prestigious 2024 England Squash Awards.
This Year alone, The Queen’s Club Foundation enabled over 221 local state school children in Hammersmith & Fulham to pick up a squash racket for the first time. 40% of those children were girls and 35% were from minority ethnic backgrounds. Head Pro. Yawar Islam, who led the programme said
“As a Squash Coach involved with The Queen’s Club Foundation (QCF), I have seen firsthand how QCF Squash programs are providing opportunities and changing lives to state school kids. QCF programs are fostering team work and inspiring confidence regardless of back ground or ability. It’s truly incredible to witness the transformation in these kids. Personally, I am really touched by kids from a SEND School, who really enjoy playing Squash. I would like to say that the dedication and passion of the QCF is making a life lasting impact and I am really proud to be part of the QCF’s mission”
Kate Maurici, Head of The Queen’s Club Foundation said:
“This is an incredible programme to which both The Club and the Philip King Charitable Trust contribute towards generously. I am delighted that the hard work of both Yawar and Robbie and the dedication of The Club to outreach work has been recognized by England Squash. The impact of the weekly sessions, opportunities for quiet reading at The Club and inspirational events is enormous, and we really are making a difference to the children involved in the programme.”
The Philip King Charitable Trust has recently agreed to continue to contribute towards the QCF squash outreach programme for a further 5 years and commented:
“We have never before given a multi-year grant for as long as five years. In approving this decision, the trustees took into account the quality of the QCF programme, the calibre of the coaches, the outstanding facilities, the imagination to reach out to children with disabilities as well as the underprivileged, the evident excitement on display at the inter-schools competition, the impressive way the QCF has set about activating supporters and the ambitious nature of its plans for squash outreach, including a combined coaching and exhibition event with world-class players to inspire juniors and raise funds.”
Further info about the award can be found here: England Squash - Shortlist confirmed for 2024 England Squash Awards.
13 November 2024