Squash: National squash title caps remarkable run for Kawaroa

Kawaroa Park Squash Club has continued its impressive run of national success, with its C Grade men’s team claiming a New Zealand title for the first time in nearly four decades.

The New Plymouth club secured the national SuperChamp title in September, adding to the success of its C Grade women’s and B Grade men’s teams, which were both crowned national champions last year.

It was a significant achievement for the club, which had won the C Grade men’s title only once previously, in the late 1980s.

The team’s path to national glory began in July when it won the district playoffs, defeating the defending national champions in the final to qualify for the national tournament.

The side, which featured a mixture of junior, senior and masters players, had spent weeks preparing for the district competition before overcoming several setbacks on its way to the national title.

Disruptions to its preparation forced changes to the lineup, while an injury during the team’s second match at nationals ruled one player out for the remainder of the tournament.

Despite the challenges, Kawaroa Park continued its winning run against opposition from across the country.

The team defeated sides from Bay of Plenty, Otago and Christchurch before edging Auckland 3-2 in a closely contested semifinal.

Two of the club’s junior players produced remarkable five-set comeback victories to help secure a place in the final against Wellington.

That match proved another tight contest, with Kawaroa Park holding its nerve to claim the national championship.

The victory marked another milestone for the club, which has established itself as a consistent contender on the national squash stage over the past two seasons.

The C Grade men’s team has since been nominated for the Taranaki Sports Awards and Central Squash Awards in recognition of its achievement.

In its nomination, the club praised the team's resilience, determination and ability to overcome adversity throughout the campaign.

The title was described as a testament to the players' hard work, camaraderie and willingness to give “that 1% more” when it mattered most.

It also continued a remarkable period for Kawaroa Park, with three teams winning national championships across the past two seasons.

For the club, which has been operating for 57 years, the latest victory was another significant achievement for its players and the wider Taranaki squash community.