Isle of Man National Squash Championship 2025: A Thrilling Tournament Showcasing the Island’s Best
The Isle of Man National Squash Championship 2025 delivered three nights of intense, high-energy competition, culminating in an unforgettable final on Saturday, March 15th. With a fantastic 39 entrants, this year’s tournament was one of the most exciting and competitive in recent memory. Sponsored by Atla Group, the event not only celebrated elite squash but also fostered community spirit, with fantastic support from local businesses and spectators.
A Championship to Remember
The tournament, spanning three nights—March 11th, 13th, and 15th—saw players from across the island battling for the prestigious title. The level of play was exceptional, with thrilling rallies, dramatic comebacks, and passionate performances captivating the spectators. The high number of entries demonstrated the growing popularity of squash on the Isle of Man and the increasing level of competition.
The championship was generously supported by Atla Group, whose dedication to the sport went beyond sponsorship. They provided everything from branded t-shirts, trophies, and refreshments for players and attendees to organising a celebratory buffet after the finals. Their efforts ensured the tournament ran smoothly, making it a truly memorable event for everyone involved. Their support, alongside that of the Isle of Man Squash Committee, allowed the competitors to focus purely on their performances, knowing that everything else was taken care of.
The Plate Final: A Match to Remember
Before the highly anticipated final, the Plate Match between Emma Leith and George Rumney delivered a spectacular showdown that many considered one of the most gripping contests of the entire tournament. Emma, who had already pulled off a stunning upset against higher-ranked Dave Freer in the previous round, found herself up against another formidable opponent in George Rumney.
Despite being relatively new to the sport, George had demonstrated impressive consistency throughout the competition, proving he deserved his place in the plate final. The match was an electrifying five-game battle that went the full distance, with Emma ultimately securing victory 3-2 (10-12, 11-9, 11-9, 7-11, 13-11) in front of a roaring crowd. Every rally was fiercely contested, and the tension in the air was palpable as the match came down to the final point. The game could not have been closer, with Emma and George pushing each other to the absolute limit.
Emma played with immense tactical intelligence, adjusting her game plan based on her opponents’ strengths. Her ability to defeat two higher-ranked players in consecutive matches showed just how much she has progressed this year. George, on the other hand, demonstrated impressive composure for a newer player, using his natural athleticism and powerful play style to push Emma all the way. His recent improvement suggests he will be a strong contender in future tournaments.
The Championship Final: Whiteway Claims the Crown
The grand final saw Thomas Whiteway take on Josh Green in a clash that had the entire squash community on the edge of their seats. For Thom, this was more than just a match—it was an opportunity to finally claim the National title, having fallen short in recent years. The emotional significance of the occasion was evident, and he rose to it magnificently.
From the first rally, Thom’s tactics were clear – he immediately went on the attack, pushing up the court and volleying relentlessly, keeping the pressure on Josh and test his movement. Josh however, an ex-professional badminton player, possesses remarkable court coverage, speed, and fitness, made it a challenge for Thom to maintain this intensity. This aggressive strategy worked in the first game, with Thom taking it 11-7.
However, in the second game, Josh adapted brilliantly, using precise drop shots to disrupt Thom’s rhythm. The momentum shifted, and Josh levelled the match with a 9-11 win, leaving Thom looking concerned as he left the court.
In the third game, Thom regrouped and managed to assert control over the T position, using his superior positioning to dictate play. Josh struggled to find the length required to control the rallies, allowing Thom to take the game 11-6. The fourth and final game saw Josh fight desperately to regain control, but Thom continued his composed and confident play, sealing the match with an 11-8 victory. The 3-1 (11-7, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8) win marked an emotional moment for Thom, as he finally claimed the Island’s most prestigious squash title.
Thom’s journey to the top has been a long and arduous one. Having spent years in the shadow of Dave Norman, he has worked tirelessly to refine his game, both physically and mentally. His victory was a testament to his perseverance, and the emotion on his face as he lifted the trophy spoke volumes. Josh, though disappointed, demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship, congratulating Thom on his hard-fought win. Given his exceptional physicality and rapid improvement in squash, Josh is expected to be a major force in future championships.
A Celebration of Squash
The Isle of Man National Squash Championship 2025 was more than just a tournament—it was a testament to the passion, dedication, and community spirit that make the sport so special. With record participation, unforgettable matches, and a new champion crowned, this year’s event will go down as one of the most memorable in the tournament’s history. Phil Butler of Atla Group shared his thoughts on the tournament’s success and the promising future of squash on the island:
“This year’s championship was a fantastic event, bringing together players of all levels in an exciting and competitive atmosphere. It was particularly great to see junior players stepping up to compete on the senior stage, gaining valuable experience and showing real promise for the future. Atla Group was really happy to support this event, which not only celebrated top-level squash but also the development of the sport on the Isle of Man.”
Les Callow, President of Isle of Man Squash, reflected on how this year’s tournament set a new standard, with Atla Group’s support playing a key role:
“This year’s championship has been the best in many years. The energy, passion, and skill on display made for an incredibly exciting tournament, and it was fantastic to see so many players involved. What truly elevated the event was the support from Atla Group. Their involvement helped us deliver a tournament that felt more professional and enjoyable for everyone involved. The difference their backing made was clear, and we are incredibly grateful for their support in making this such a successful event.”
Beyond the matches themselves, the tournament highlighted the strength of the squash community on the Isle of Man. The event was played in great spirit, with players of all ages and abilities coming together to compete and support one another. The atmosphere throughout the three nights was electric, with passionate crowds providing the players with an extra boost when they needed it most.
With the level of talent continuing to rise, the future of squash on the Isle of Man looks brighter than ever. Whether it’s the next generation of young players inspired by the performances they witnessed or seasoned competitors looking to sharpen their skills further, the 2025 championship has set the bar high for the years to come. We can’t wait to see what 2026 brings!
Share this post
