Hello ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to your next episode of the podcast series.

Today, I am thrilled to sit down with an old friend, Stuart Crawford, a leading figure in the world of squash coaching. Stuart and I reconnected a few months ago at the British Open, and since then, a lot has transpired in his life that I’m excited to unpack and share with you.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Stuart's journey from his early days of playing squash in his small local club in Scotland, to representing his country and eventually transitioning into a coaching role. Stuart shares captivating stories of his formative years, including a family holiday in Malta that ignited his passion for squash.

We explore his experiences as a junior player, his inclusion in the Scottish junior team, and his eye-opening participation in the World Junior Championships. Stuart recounts his transition to a professional squash career, highlighting the highs and lows, and how these experiences shaped his approach to coaching.

Stuart's coaching journey is equally compelling. From his early coaching days while at the University of Stirling to his impactful tenure at the University of Pennsylvania, where he recently led the men's team to their first-ever national championship. We also delve into his exciting new role as the England national coach, his vision for the future, and the exciting prospect of squash being included in the LA 2028 Olympics.

Throughout our conversation, Stuart offers invaluable insights into the mental traits that distinguish successful players, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of curiosity in an athlete's growth. He also shares his thoughts on handling pressure and the significance of maintaining a healthy perspective on sport and competition.

Whether you're a squash enthusiast or simply intrigued by the journey of an elite player and coach, this episode promises to be a riveting listen.

So, get comfortable, and join us as we journey through Stuart Crawford's remarkable career and his exciting plans for the future.

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