David rekindles his 60-year association with East Glos

David Plews first joined East Glos in 1972 and has recently returned to the club. In this heartfelt piece, he reflects on how the club has changed for the better and how much he is enjoying his membership.

A year back at East Glos

By David Plews

I re-joined East Glos in November last year; I was a squash member firstly in 1972 for about ten years and then again from the mid-1980s until the early 1990s.

I learnt my formative squash skills here, representing the club in the county premiere league at number one, and gaining my county colours, as it was known back in the day!

I also became a qualified coach and was (probably) the first full-time squash professional at the club. It has been great to meet members again that I haven’t seen in a long time.

The club in those days was dramatically different to what it is now and represents today.

I am truly amazed at how this wonderful club has developed as a rackets club and how the management structure operates effectively. The coaching professionals work tirelessly at all levels, particularly the junior development programmes and performance and talent initiatives. And not forgetting the unbelievable grounds maintenance crew, which keeps the whole club in perfect condition – all year round.

Until this last year, I hadn’t lifted a racket for about 20 years as I was travelling a lot with my career. Although squash will always be my first love, I mainly play tennis now but participate in all the racket sports – meeting new friends and groups who have been very generous with their time and encouragement, for which I am very grateful.

Thank you, East Glos – I look forward to making new friends I haven’t met yet.

Best wishes to all

David