|
AFP
Photo |
Squash is one of five sports shortlisted for
possible inclusion in the 2012 Olympics.
Should any of the current 28 Olympic sports
be dropped, it will be replaced by those on the waiting list.
Sports are selected based on criteria like global popularity,
television and media coverage, gender equity and ticket sales.
Facing tough competition like golf, rugby, karate
and roller sports, squash is going all out to draw in the
crowds and appeal to the younger generation.
The status of squash in Asia is gaining momentum,
with a total of 26 federations in the region.
"Since September 2004, when we heard about
the opportunity of squash becoming an Olympic sport, the various
associations and federations have been working with the World
Squash Federation, giving feedback," said Charles Ng,
President of the Singapore Squash Rackets Association.
While sports like golf and tennis struggle to
get the professional players to forgo grand slam events or
major tournaments to participate in the Olympics, squash has
no such problem.
"Olympics is like a global celebration
of sportsmen and for squash, the top players will be represented
at the tournament."
On the question of whether squash could pack
in the crowds and meet the criteria for international media
coverage, technology is beginning to play an important role.
Already available in Chennai, India, is an all-glass-walled
court where spectators can be seated on all four sides of
the court.
And the best part is, the court can be shipped
to any venue for any tournament.
"For squash as we all know it's a universal
game which is played at SEA Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth
and even at the All-African games as well as the Pan-American
Games. We are not yet in the Olympics but we are very proud
at this point... and it's a dream that we will not give up
until we realise it," said Mr Ng.
One things for sure, over the next few days,
officials and players will be smashing that message home.
|
