About the Squad

The Under 21 Academy squad will be based and run in a professional environment, with senior players training in the sessions when available. There will be much greater court availability, so players are able to work and practice without restrictions. The players involved in the squad should be aspiring to become full–time senior athletes in the future, or training at a level which would give them the opportunity to do so. This will be the perfect opportunity for players to build all the necessary skills and holistic attributes to be a top squash player, through a highly supportive and quality coaching environment.

This is a mixed squad for both U21 and junior players. Players will be expected to be self-reliant in their squash progress, but will be given all the resources and information needed to be successful. The Scottish Squash Pathway Manager & Coach will work with the player’s individual coaches to support player development.

If you sign up to the squad, the expectation is that you will make every effort to attend all the squad day. If you can’t attend a squad day, you should let the Scottish Squash Pathway Manager & Coach (Kylie Lindsay) know as far in advance as possible. 

Squad Criteria

• For players aged 13 to under 21.
• Demonstrate the potential to achieve a top 16 finish in the British Junior Championships in your age group.
• Dedicated to developing in the sport and achieving positive results at events outside of Scotland.
• U19 players compete in Scottish Junior Golds/Nationals, Scottish Junior Open and other major junior events outside of Scotland. Where appropriate also play U23 Nationals and Senior Golds.
• Non-juniors to compete in U23 Nationals, Senior Nationals and Senior Golds, as well as other major events outside of Scotland, including PSA Satellites.
• Demonstrate key performance behaviours, including – but not limited to – hard work, commitment and respect.
• Have a personal coach who you see regularly.
• 8+ hours a week towards training for squash.
• Application supported and endorsed by the player’s coach.

What’s Included?

• There will be 8 squad days throughout the season and the squad will be mixed male and female. 
• Typically, 6 x Saturdays, plus 2 x Sundays (6 hrs per day) 
• Communication from the Lead Coach with individual coaches/parents to give feedback on the squad and their players.
• Possibility of joining travelling squad for British Junior Championships [30th October – 2nd November 2025]. This event is self-funded by the players. 
• Squad T-shirt 

Venue

Oriam, Scotland’s National Performance Centre, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh

Dates 2025/26  

• Squad 1: Saturday – Sunday, September 13th – 14th 2025 [2 DAYS] 
• Squad 2: Saturday Nov 29th 2025
• Squad 3: Saturday Jan 17th 2026 
• Squad 4: Saturday – Sunday, March 14th – 15th 2026 [2 DAYS] 
• Squad 5: Saturday April 25th 2026
• Squad 6: Saturday June 6th 2026

Squad days will take place from 10am – 4pm.

Cost

The cost is £250.00 per season.

How to Apply

Applications for the Under 21 Academy for season 2025/26 are now open.

Apply now using this form: https://forms.office.com/e/gMTB1mbQEJ

Mid-season applications may be accepted depending on performance, contact kylie.lindsay@scottishsquash.org for more information.

• Applications need to be supported and endorsed by the player’s coach. Our Pathway Manager Kylie Lindsay will ask for feedback from the players individual, club or regional coach to assist any selections. 
• Selection is also based on performances and results in Scottish Junior Golds, Scottish Junior Open, U23 Nationals, Senior Golds and major events outside of Scotland from last season.