As the season kicks off in Europe and North America, it
has just come to an end here in New Zealand. If I were to make plans in any way similar to the
last four years, I would be on the plane once again to Europe to play more
Squash. However this time, I have decided to approach things differently - I am allowing myself an off season. I look forward to my first summer in four years and
above all, a break after 8 squash seasons.
Playing two seasons a year were mandatory for me to survive as a squash player. The tournaments
in NZ and the league matches in Europe helped cover most expenses. I loved playing
matches and that was another reason that kept me going. However, without a summer and the
needed break and off season training, the quality in performance is limited. This has exactly been the case with me.
So what next?
Once again, I have two options. Either, to let go of my
ambitions and live with the personal bests I’ve had. I would still enjoy
playing within NZ but not deal with the hassles of being overseas. On the other
hand I could set new goals to try and improve my previous bests and give it one big
push. This would mean work harder than ever before and be out of my comfort zone - yet again. There will be a lot of
issues and adversities to deal with. However, if I manage to succeed, I will achieve
something bigger than what I have now. And that’s an exciting and motivating
thought.
The Decision
The serenity of the South Island was a perfect place to think about things. After much thought, deliberation and consultation, I have
decided to give it one more go and pursue my squash goals next year. I
would like to see how I perform after a rejuvenating yet hard summer – something I
have never done before. There have been some patches here and there where I
trained hard but
never was there a full on summer where I have put myself to the task of getting
super-fit. Time for a break and some hard off season training.
I believe I still have it in me to play better squash. The dream continues ...
I believe I still have it in me to play better squash. The dream continues ...
A Squash Player's Journal - proudly sponsored by TEAM TITAN
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Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki and I. |
