"It's a sport for life" is the message from the new head squash coach at Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club (KTSCC).

Jenny McKenna, appointed in September, is eager to get more people onto the squash and racketball courts at the Crackley Lane club.

A former junior international, Jenny is encouraging new players — as well as those returning after time away — from every age group and background to give KTSCC a try.

"We have a few key things we really want to launch and achieve here," Jenny told Nub News.

"One of the main aims is to increase participation and boost overall involvement.

"Recently we marked World Squash Day with an event, which gave us a really strong start. We've already had several people sign up because of it.

"It's all about inclusivity — reaching people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Whether you have experience or none at all, whether you're a child or an adult, we want to connect with everyone in the community."

Just two months into the role, Jenny has already made significant progress and has ambitious plans to introduce squash to as many people as possible.

This drive has begun with a schools outreach programme, giving pupils the chance to experience a sport they may not otherwise encounter. Delivered through Squash England's Ready Set Squash scheme, the initiative is designed to fit within the school curriculum.

Jenny continued: "My motto for squash is: fun, fitness, focus on mental health, social connections — it's a sport for life. Squash is cradle to grave.

"That's why we want to engage youngsters and promote our open days.

"It's a family-friendly, enjoyable sport that anyone can try, whatever their age or ability. We can adapt the game to suit everyone.

"And once children give it a go, we often find their parents want to try it too."

KTSCC has seven squash coaches (image supplied)

KTSCC is also developing a club-wide initiative to provide funding for outreach in underprivileged communities.

The squash section has additionally secured sponsorship from HALO Physiotherapy, Ewe Move and Rothesay Bennett, helping to bring in more funds to increase exposure and support further engagement work.

With squash set to feature in the 2028 Olympics for the first time, Jenny — who holds degrees in Physiotherapy and Sports Development — believes there has never been a better moment to promote both squash and racketball.

"Nowadays the world has changed; there's so much more competition for people's time," she said. "Even keen sports enthusiasts have endless options — rock climbing, cross-country cycling, all sorts of activities.

"The competition is immense, so we want to reach different areas of the community and encourage them to try squash.

"It's a sport that, once you give it a go, becomes a sport for life. My three children all play, and I've played all my life. It keeps you going and it's a brilliant social activity."

After 13 years working in the NHS, Jenny has now transitioned into a full-time role at KTSCC, where she has been a member herself for 12 years.

She now leads a coaching team of seven — Sarah-Jane Perry, Dawn Ashford, Olivia Gow, Sophie Townsend, Guy Pearson and Steve Townsend.

"It's not just me," Jenny said. "There's a real legacy of excellent coaching here. We have a strong foundation and several core coaches who have been part of the club for years.

"We also have five female coaches, which is unusual — not many clubs can say that. The coaching team here is fantastic."

When asked why people in Kenilworth and wider Warwickshire should give KTSCC a try — regardless of which sport they're drawn to — Jenny said it's the welcoming environment that makes the club stand out.

"It's friendly, it's approachable, and that's why we're still here after 12 years," she said. "This isn't just a club for tennis or padel; we value every sport in its own right. That's not always the case elsewhere.

"Once you join, you tend to stay. Making money isn't the top priority here and that's what makes us such a family-friendly club."

Find out more via the KTSCC website, or email Jenny : [email protected]

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