ELEVATE: Next Gen Coach Academy launched to empower coaches of the future
The ELEVATE: Next Gen Coach Academy welcomed six coaches to an introductory call as the programme got underway this month.
The initiative aims to support coaches aged 35 and under to create paid, part-time opportunities as coaches at clubs across Scotland.
Currently, fewer than 25% of Coach Licence holders fall within this age group, and an even smaller proportion actively coaching.
ELEVATE has been designed to address this gap, while supporting clubs that are looking to strengthen and grow their own workforce.
In 2026, the six coaches will receive tailored support and education opportunities with experienced tutors, mentoring from some of Scotland’s leading squash coaches and a start-up grant to support towards the costs of getting started.
Following a competitive selection process, the cohort has already started to put together a plan to build sustainable coaching opportunities within their clubs.
Sessions will be delivered across:
- Abercorn Sports Club
- Craighelen Squash Club
- Garioch Squash Club
- Glasgow Academy
- Newlands Lawn Tennis Club
- Shetland Squash Club
- Stewartry Squash Club
Scottish Squash Workforce Development Manager Stuart Monteith said: “It has been great to welcome the first-ever ELEVATE cohort to the pilot year of the course.
“The programme is designed to tackle two key challenges that coaches and clubs identify – helping coaches to find and create their own paid opportunities, and supporting clubs to develop their coaching capacity.
“ELEVATE will create more opportunities for players in clubs, while supporting the next generation of coaches to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to squash in Scotland.”
Scottish Squash is working to support clubs to grow the number of junior members and female members, with ELEVATE forming a key part of a wider-programme of club-focused initiatives designed to achieve that ambition.
