ELEVATE: NEXT GEN COACH ACADEMY LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT FUTURE COACHES

We are delighted to introduce ELEVATE: Next Gen Coach Academy, a new programme designed to support 18-35 year olds in taking their first steps into squash coaching.

Whether you’re balancing studies, part-time work, or looking to turn your passion into a profession, ELEVATE offers a flexible, paid and sustainable pathway into coaching.

Programme overview

ELEVATE is structured to fit around busy lifestyles, featuring:

  • 8 engaging webinars
  • 2 on-court sessions
  • 4 1:1 mentoring calls from experienced coaches

All scheduled around participant availability.

Why ELEVATE?

Squash clubs with active coaches and regular sessions report the strongest member retention and growth. Many clubs across Scotland are struggling to find qualified coaches to take advantage of unused court space.

ELEVATE bridges this gap by:

  • Empowering young coaches to develop their skills
  • Helping clubs grow their own coaching teams

Despite 52% of coaching course participants in 2024-25 being under 35, fewer than 25% of Coach Licence holders are under 35 – and even fewer are actively coaching. ELEVATE aims to change that.

What challenges does ELEVATE address?

Insights from young coaches and pathway players across Scotland revealed key barriers:

  • Time constraints due to studies or work.
  • Start-up costs with no guaranteed income
  • Low confidence in leading sessions
  • Lack of mentors or role models

ELEVATE tackles these head on by offering:

  • A comprehensive training programme
  • Free court time (with club endorsement)
  • A start-up grant from Scottish Squash
  • Mentorship and ongoing support

Who is ELEVATE for?

If you’re aged 18-35 (or turning 18 before November 2026) and want to turn your squash passion into a profession, ELEVATE is for you. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to grow sessions as an assistant coach or aiming to expand your coaching footprint, we’ll support you every step of the way.

As part of the ELEVATE cohort, you’ll receive:

  • Tools to start earning from coaching
  • Support to grow your coaching practice
  • Preparation for part-time or full-time coaching roles in Scotland and beyond.

How do I apply?

Individuals interested in participating should complete the application form by 11.59pm on Friday 31st October.

More information can also be found here.

Applicants will be invited for an online conversation to discuss their application, with a maximum of six coaches to be selected in the pilot year.

For more information on ELEVATE or the application process, email stuart.monteith@scottishsquash.org