Sports facilities: Foundation stone laid for squash academy

FAISALABAD:

The foundation stone of a squash academy was laid at Al Fatah Sports Complex on Saturday. Former world champion Jehangir Khan was the chief guest.

Torsam Khan Squash Academy is being built at a cost of Rs30 million.

Addressing the ceremony, Khan said such training centres were essential for promotion of the game. “Squash has been a very popular game. More athletes should have the opportunity to train and participate in the game.” He lauded the DCO for his efforts for the game in Faisalabad.

In his address, DCO Mengal thanked Khan for visiting Faisalabad to inaugurate academy.

“We want to turn this into a vibrant centre for Faisalabad’s squash enthusiasts,” he said.

The DCO said two squash courts would be constructed at the complex. He said comfortable seating capacity for visitors would be ensured.

He said Faisalabad’s district administration had taken a number of steps to encourage the youth in sports. “We have hosted 15 national competitions in various games over the last two years,” the DCO said. He said Faisalabad had hosted two national squash championships.

Squash Organiser Mamun Khan said the academy had been named after Khan’s older brother who had been a distinguished squash player. “We want to remind the youth that Pakistan has produced world-class squash players,” he said. “Here, they will find all the facilities that they need to develop their game.”

Later, Khan inaugurated the third Lyallpur National Men’s Squash Championship at Chenab Club. As many as 44 squash players participated in the event.

DCO Mengal, Squash Organiser Mamun Khan, DSO Tariq Nazir and Zonal Squash Association President Rana Naeem Dastgir were also present on occasion.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 6^th, 2015.