Report courtesy of WSF.
The sport of Squash has been confirmed as a showcase sport at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in October 2018.
The Games Organizing Committee has emphasized a desire to feature participation as a key component as part of their ‘festivals of sport’ created in four ‘parks’ across the city. Buenos Aires 2018 want people to “experience a fusion of elite sport competition, music, culture and arts festivals, sport initiation, showcasing and educational programs.”
The World Squash Federation, in conjunction with the Argentinean Squash Federation, were warmly received by the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games Organizing Committee (BAYOGOC) during the extended period in which discussions took place leading to this superb outcome.
Welcoming the news, WSF President Jacques Fontaine commented: “Youth are our future, and so a priority for squash. We hugely admire the participation policy of the Buenos Aires 2018 Organizing Committee are grateful to the hosts in recognizing that squash will be a vibrant addition, and are delighted to be a part of the promotion. We, in collaboration with the Argentinean Squash Federation, look forward to bringing an all-glass showcourt to Technopolis Park.”
“To be added to the Youth Olympic Games for 2018 is a great moment for squash and a step in the right direction towards our ultimate aim of Olympic Games inclusion,” Fontaine said. “The Youth Games displays the very best in rising sporting talent as well as the very best in youth sports. We believe we have one of the most unique sporting products in the world and some of the most compelling athletes in the world; and we look forward to working closely with the host in the build up to Buenos Aires 2018 to ensure we make the most of the opportunity.”
The dates for the squash, within the 6-18 October 2018 overall program and the format of the junior ‘showcase’ event, will be announced later.
