PSF to hire trainer, nutritionist for players

Squash federation following footsteps of current giants of the game.

KARACHI:

The Asian Individual Championship did more than just prove that Pakistan could stage international events. It gave Pakistan officials a chance to look at the foreign teams’ contingent and analyse their panel of coaches and see where they could improve.

With most countries taking the help of trainers, physiotherapists and nutritionists for their players, Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) has also realised its importance and is looking to hire professionals with similar expertise.

“We are hiring a trainer/nutritionist in June as we’ve realised the importance of having professional support staff,” PSF Senior Vice-President Razi Nawab told The Express Tribune. “It’s a small step we are taking to bring about an overall improvement in the players’ game as sports sciences is now being involved all over the world.”

He admitted that squash players have to put in a lot of effort in their training, making their diet an essential ingredient in their game. He added that the athletes could improve their fitness through professional training methods and work on building muscle, increasing their competitive level to match international standards.

The development is good news for Pakistan squash after Aamir Atlas’ injury, which sidelined him from a four-member squad for the upcoming World Team Championship, highlighted concerns with players’ fitness.



Razi also revealed that in order to promote the game, the PSF has reached an agreement with departments to provide their players air tickets for Professional Squash Association (PSA) tournaments.

“It’s a positive development. We’ll also provide cash incentive to players if they do well in PSA events which would be a good motivation.”

Published in The Express Tribune, May 26^th, 2013.