Middleton Gains Global Experience in Asia

Next Gen Squad athlete Ethan Middleton has returned from an international squash tour, competing at the Kuala Lumpur Junior Open and the Singapore Junior Open. These tournaments, renowned for their competitive fields and challenging conditions, gave Ethan a taste of the global squash scene and provided invaluable lessons for his development.

Competing in the Under-17 category for the first time, Ethan faced off against top-ranked juniors from Asia and beyond. Finishing 25th in both events, he walked away not just with match results, but with a deeper understanding of the level required to succeed on the world stage.

Reflecting on the experience, Ethan shared:
"Playing internationally was a whole new challenge. The competition was fierce, and the conditions—especially the humidity in Singapore—were unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It showed me what I need to work on to elevate my game. At the same time, meeting players from around the world was incredible—I even traded shirts with a few!"

For Ethan, the tour wasn’t just about competing; it was about learning and growing. Exposure to different playing styles, environments, and cultural exchanges enriched his perspective, both on and off the court.

Mike Dickens, Performance Pathway Head Coach, highlighted the significance of these experiences for Performance Pathway athletes like Ethan:
"Competing in events like these provides invaluable lessons. It’s not just about results; it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, adapting to new challenges, and learning what it takes to compete at the highest level. Ethan approached this opportunity with great maturity, and his efforts will undoubtedly benefit him moving forward."

Beyond the matches, Ethan also cherished the camaraderie. Travelling alongside junior players from across Australia, he strengthened friendships, built new connections with athletes from Malaysia and Singapore, and gained insights into the global squash community.

The Next Gen Squad, part of the Squash NSW Performance Pathway, is designed to prepare emerging athletes like Ethan for moments like these. With a focus on technical and tactical skill development, mental resilience, and professionalism, the program equips players to seize opportunities on the international stage.