27/07/2026
Kia ora all,
Just thought I'd send a quick message to ensure everyone knows that Graeme Astle has stepped into the president role for Hutt City Squash.
Graeme and I have been working closely together with the Phoenix takeover so he is well positioned to keep the work in this space going. As you all know, Graeme is highly respected in the squash community, cares deeply about Hutt City Squash and is highly skilled. You're in fantastic hands. Thanks Graeme for all your help over the last couple of years, it's meant a lot.
Graeme has the support of the entire committee.
As much as I have enjoyed the challenge, I am moving to Australia in a couple of weeks.
I do want to thank the committee for the constant hard work, especially during these tougher times.
Neil is the glue that holds this club together, an absolute legend. Every tournament, in-house, kids night, interclub and other squash event is done by Neil. If he asks for help, make sure you volunteer. He needs you.
Warren and Michelle have been doing a fantastic job getting the books in order, keeping my spend manageable.
Warren has also become the IT guy, making sure your experience is how you expect and simplifing the setup for the user. It's been good knowing that I don't have to do it.
Michelle has also been a huge advocate for women's squash, driving ladies night, ensuring there are teams entered in competitions, and ensuring the little things are done like soap in the showers at tournaments.
Andy keeps us on our toes, ensuring we are crossing the right t's and dotting our i's. He has a few ideas and plans to improve the place, give him a hand to get some stuff done.
Terry has been a legend. The amount of time he spends cleaning walls and introducing new people to others helps promote our club. We need more people like Terry.
I also want to say a special thanks to a couple of others no longer on the committee. Bryan who worked tirelessly keeping the club going for many years.
And Nikki, who drove change at a good rate. When something needed to be done, Nikki would do it, would drive it, and ensure it got done, not just talked about. Take the court sponsorship for example, how good do the courts look?
For the club, the ride isn't over. There is still.lots of work to be done. But it can only be done by volunteers. The club needs your help. Without it, the club is at risk of collapsing. The risk now is greater than it's ever been. Play more squash is a great start. Chip in the help when you can. Every little bit helps. And make Hutt City Squash a place that people want to be.
The ball is in your court.
