World No 1 David Leads WISPA Promotional Trips in Europe
June 9, 2009
Malaysia’s world number one Nicol David is taking time out from her hectic Squash schedule to lead visits to Switzerland and Italy this month to promote the sport in continental Europe.
Organised by the Women’s International Squash Players’ Association (WISPA), the tour will include clinics, exhibition matches, press conferences, etc, in Zurich, Luzern and Rome. Nicol David will be partnered by Ireland’s world number nine Madeline Perry in Switzerland, and England’s world eight Laura Lengthorn-Massaro in Italy, along with WISPA CEO Andrew Shelley.
In Switzerland, the Vitis Sports Center in Zurich and Pilatus Sports Center in Luzern will be the hosts, while Roman Sports Center will be the activity centre in Rome.
“The reasons behind the annual WISPA Promotional Tour have been unchanged since we started in 1999,” Shelley explained. “We have wanted to play a part in generating increasing promotional and general interest in squash in countries by bringing top players to meet their media, young and old players and administrators too.
“Our players give their time freely and generously, and this year finds Nicol David – on her fifth promotional mission for WISPA – spearheading the visit again, supported by Madeline and Laura.
“If past experience is anything to go by, the hosts are in for some great media interest, clinics and matches too,” added the WISPA chief.
“And conveniently, the Swiss leg finishes in time for Nicol to join up with the rest of the Squash group who will be making the second presentation to the IOC Programme Commission as we strive for a place in the Olympic Games – the ultimate dream for our sport.”