The SquashMind Podcast

Hello ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,

Welcome to the next instalment of the podcast series.

Today, I bring you part 2 of my deep-dive conversation with none other than the iconic England Squash coach, David Campion.

In this episode, we shift our focus to explore David’s coaching philosophy and the intricate process of building high-performance teams, especially in the lead-up to major events like the Commonwealth Games. 

David shares how he helps athletes thrive under pressure, discussing the essential elements of creating a winning mindset.

We dive into the critical balance of fostering individual excellence while building a cohesive team environment. 

David reflects on his experience managing world-class players like Nick Matthew and James Willstrop—two fierce rivals who still needed to come together as teammates in team competitions. 

He offers insights into how he navigated their unique personalities to ensure peak performance when it mattered most.

We also get into motivation—both intrinsic and extrinsic—and how to keep elite athletes focused on the process, rather than fixated on the outcome. 

David shares his thoughts on goal setting, explaining why goals are important but how staying present and mastering the craft should take priority for long-term success.

One of the standout moments in this episode is when David breaks down the importance of adaptability and "rugged flexibility" in training. 

We explore how top athletes like Laura Massaro were able to continuously evolve and push their limits, even when faced with major challenges. 

He also discusses the role of mindset and resilience, using Gina Kennedy’s path to a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games as a case study of how athletes can unlock their potential through focused preparation and belief in themselves.

Finally, we discuss the broader applications of David's coaching principles, as he now brings his expertise to leadership talks and corporate environments. 

He shares how lessons learned from the world of elite sport can be applied to building high-performance teams in the business world, with a focus on clarity, intent, and creating a transformational environment.

Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or simply interested in the mindset behind elite performance, this episode is packed with insights that you won’t want to miss.

Before we dive in, make sure to visit the SportMind website at www.SportMind.io, where you can join our live masterclass with David Campion or catch the replay if you missed it. 

This is your chance to interact with one of squash’s most respected voices and take your game to the next level.

Now, without further ado, please sit back, and enjoy part 2 of my conversation with David Campion.

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Today is a part 1 deep-dive with non-other than icoconinc England Squash coach David Campion. 

With over two decades at the forefront of England Squash, David has not only led the national team to unparalleled success but has also shaped the careers of some of the sport's biggest names.

In this episode, we journey through David’s history, starting with his early days in West Yorkshire, where he was coached by the legendary Malcolm Willstrop. 

We explore how this early immersion in a world-class squash environment, surrounded by future stars like Peter Marshall and Simon Parke, set the stage for his future achievements. 

David shares personal stories from his junior career, including his own experiences as a world junior finalist, offering listeners a glimpse into the foundation of his deep understanding of the game.

But it’s not just about history. 

We dive deep into the intricacies of his coaching philosophy, where David opens up about the mental and physical demands of high-performance squash. 

He discusses the significance of mindset and resilience, illustrating how elite athletes like Nick Matthew and James Willstrop have harnessed these qualities to achieve greatness. 

David recounts specific examples, such as how Nick Matthew adapted his training to overcome challenges on bouncy courts, or how Laura Massaro developed a devastating counter-drop to neutralise the aggressive front-court play of her Egyptian rivals.

One of the highlights of our conversation is David’s candid discussion about the pressures of modern coaching. 

He shares invaluable insights into balancing the technical aspects of the game with the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest levels. 

We also touch on the importance of creating a nurturing yet challenging environment for young players—a philosophy that has guided his work with emerging talents in England's squash scene.

Listeners will also find David’s thoughts on early specialisation versus a broader, multi-sport approach particularly enlightening. 

He provides a nuanced view on the topic, informed by both his experiences as a coach and his personal journey in the sport.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches looking to refine their approach, players aspiring to reach the top, and anyone fascinated by the mindset of elite athletes. 

David’s stories and insights offer a rare and valuable perspective on what it takes to excel in squash and beyond. 

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the sport’s most respected voices in this first of 2 parts.

Please sit back, and enjoy!

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Hello ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to your next episode of the podcast series. 

Today, I am thrilled to sit down with an old friend, Stuart Crawford, a leading figure in the world of squash coaching. Stuart and I reconnected a few months ago at the British Open, and since then, a lot has transpired in his life that I’m excited to unpack and share with you.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Stuart's journey from his early days of playing squash in his small local club in Scotland, to representing his country and eventually transitioning into a coaching role. Stuart shares captivating stories of his formative years, including a family holiday in Malta that ignited his passion for squash.

We explore his experiences as a junior player, his inclusion in the Scottish junior team, and his eye-opening participation in the World Junior Championships. Stuart recounts his transition to a professional squash career, highlighting the highs and lows, and how these experiences shaped his approach to coaching.

Stuart's coaching journey is equally compelling. From his early coaching days while at the University of Stirling to his impactful tenure at the University of Pennsylvania, where he recently led the men's team to their first-ever national championship. We also delve into his exciting new role as the England national coach, his vision for the future, and the exciting prospect of squash being included in the LA 2028 Olympics.

Throughout our conversation, Stuart offers invaluable insights into the mental traits that distinguish successful players, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of curiosity in an athlete's growth. He also shares his thoughts on handling pressure and the significance of maintaining a healthy perspective on sport and competition.

Whether you're a squash enthusiast or simply intrigued by the journey of an elite player and coach, this episode promises to be a riveting listen. 

So, get comfortable, and join us as we journey through Stuart Crawford's remarkable career and his exciting plans for the future.

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Hello ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to your next episode of the podcast series.

Today, I welcome Matt Gill

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mattgill_yoga4squash/

Website - https://mattgillyoga.co.uk/blog/tag/yoga+for+squash

Matt Gill is a multifaceted practitioner deeply rooted in the world of wellness and fitness. With a journey spanning over 15 years, Matt has not only mastered the art of yoga but has also become a certified breathwork coach with the Oxygen Advantage program. His expertise doesn’t stop there; he’s a mobility specialist certified in the Functional Range Conditioning system, a testament to his deep understanding of the human body's capabilities and limitations. 

Beyond his professional qualifications, Matt’s passion for racquet sports, notably squash and racquetball, showcases his dedication to not only teaching wellness but living it. His approach to wellness is holistic, integrating the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects to enhance performance both on and off the court.

Our conversation today dives deep into Matt’s journey from the squash courts of his youth to the yoga mats of India and beyond. Matt shares with us how an injury led him to explore the realms of yoga and mindfulness, transforming not just his recovery process but his approach to life and sport. His stories of personal growth and discovery are interwoven with practical advice on how we, too, can apply the principles of yoga, breathwork, and mobility to our daily lives and athletic pursuits.

We delve into the specifics of how yoga and breathwork can elevate your game in squash and other high-intensity sports. Matt breaks down the scientific and intuitive aspects of breathing, mobility, and mindfulness, providing listeners with actionable steps to incorporate these practices into their training routines.

Expect to uncover the symbiotic relationship between physical health and mental well-being as Matt expands on the profound impact of mindful practices on athletic performance. His insights into the integration of Eastern philosophies with Western science offer a refreshing perspective on holistic health and its benefits beyond the physical realm.

Moreover, Matt gives us a sneak peek into ‘Yoga for Squash,’ his innovative approach to blending the dynamic demands of squash with the grounding practices of yoga. This unique fusion promises not just improved flexibility and strength but a deeper connection with one’s body and breath, unlocking new levels of performance and enjoyment in the sport.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the show to help elevate your mental game in sports and life. Please welcome Matt Gill.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Grab Your Copy Of The Squash Playbook - https://www.squashplaybook.com/ ⚫️💨

I'm excited to welcome my guest for today, Victor Crouin. A powerhouse in the world of squash, Victor is a top ten player renowned for his competitive spirit and exceptional victories on the Tour. Starting his career with a major win at the Open International d’Angers in 2017, he has never looked back, delivering consistent performances and bagging multiple titles year after year.

While attending Harvard University, Victor saw an impressive winning streak on the Tour, including a triumphant run on Australian soil. He balanced his academics with a rigorous training regimen, his now-famous spreadsheets guiding his path to victory. His determination and strategic approach eventually paid off when he moved into the world's top ten rankings, a testament to his indomitable spirit and consistency in how he trains and behaves.

In the 2022-2023 season, Victor's scintillating form continued, securing victories at significant tournaments, such as the Open de France de Squash, and making it to the finals of his first three tournaments. His second Bronze title win at the Squash On Fire Open and the qualification for the season-ending CIB PSA World Tour Finals solidify his reputation as a formidable force in squash. Not only this but making it to the final of the Qatar Open, his first Platinum ever final. 

In our insightful conversation, we reflect on Victor's incredible season, his journey from being number 20 rising to world number 7, and his preparation for the upcoming season. We delve into his early days, transitioning from tennis to squash at 11, and the dynamics of his father-coach relationship. We also explore his decision to attend Harvard, how he balanced his degree with top-tier performance on the PSA World Tour, and what this prestigious education brought to his career.

I dive deeper into Victor's mental strategies, exploring how he handles pressure, starts matches on a strong note, and closes games out. As someone who has an in-depth understanding of his game and life, Victor's thoughts on these subjects are enlightening. Moreover, we discuss overall deep strategies about the mind from a young superstar who's improving at a rapid rate, both mentally and physically.

We had such a great conversation but it does feel there is a part 2 coming to go even deeper with mental exploration with one of the best minds in the game right now! But until then, let's get into the conversation with the remarkable Victor Crouin.

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