News

The World Squash Federation (WSF) has appointed London based international sports marketing agency, Juniper PR, to manage its global communications programme in support of its campaign to elevate squash to Olympic status for the 2016 Olympic Games.

Juniper PR, established over a year ago by Susan McMahon, (previously Managing Director of Bell Pottinger Sport), won the prestigious account in a five-way pitch. McMahon’s vast experience which includes a prominent media role with the Beijing Olympic Bid (BOCOG) and members of her team’s involvement with the 2008 Olympics as media facilitators helped Juniper secure the contract. The initial contract will last for eight months, culminating in an IOC vote in Copenhagen in October when up to two sports out of seven currently bidding, may be accepted into the Olympic charter.

Squash is played in 175 countries by over 20 million people and can be easily integrated into the Olympics at a very low cost to the host cities. Portable glass courts make the sport an incredible viewing spectacle for viewers both on television and in person.

Natalie Grainger, Squash 2016 Bid Team member and World No 4 said, “We recognized in Juniper PR, an energetic and creative approach that will positively support our campaign. We will now proceed to get the attention of the IOC and the sporting world as a whole. Squash is an excellent spectator sport and has all the right ingredients for inclusion in the games. An Olympic medal would be the highest achievement in the sport, and the top players of both sexes have pledged their commitment to compete. “

Susan McMahon said, “This is an important and significant account win for us. The international game of squash is a very exciting sport for all and we look forward to working with the bid team to ensure the best chance of its inclusion in the 2016 Games.”