ADF squash showdown
Volume 11, No. 48, July 27, 2006

Third time’s a charm: Sgt Kim Booth-Collis hopes to claim an ADF squash victory in her third attempt.

SGT Kim Booth-Collis, HQNORCOM Darwin, hopes it will be third time lucky when she contests the 2006 ADF squash nationals at RAAF Base Williamtown from August 25-28.

Organiser Sgt Madonna Doyle said Sgt Booth-Collis was itching to have her name on the winners’ board after being beaten in grand-finals the past two years.

“This year she is focusing solely on the one event and will not enter the graded events, masters or doubles,” she said.

 The Army hopeful will not have things all her own way with the women’s open champion of 2002 and 2003 Flt-Lt Brianna Connelly returning to the game after knee surgery. She is expected to mount a strong challenge for the title.

In the men’s open the absence of Army’s WO1 Craig Simmich looks certain to open things up.

WO1 Simmich has won the men’s open 12 times but recurring knee injuries and work commitments will keep him off the scene this year.

RAAF Sergeants Daryl Bessell and Darryl Ferguson will look for their share of the spoils in his absence.

Previous championships have attracted 50-60 players but the organisers hope to build on that this year.

“We hope to attract more players this year, especially from Williamtown since the implementation of an on-base competition with 60 players participating,” Sgt Doyle said. “We also expect that inviting the RNZAF side to participate, followed by a two-week tour will be a drawcard. It would be great to see 90 players turn up.

“Past tours have seen some fantastic matches and the Kiwis must be considered a threat.”

For competition details and entry requirements contact Sgt Doyle on (02) 4964 6213 or via email at Madonna.Doyle@defence.gov.au.