The Swedish Squash Federation, in cooperation with the Squash Facilities Network (SFN), is excited to invite key representatives and stakeholders of Swedish squash to a two-day conference dedicated to discussing the future of squash in Sweden. This event coincides with the annual Finland-Sweden Squash Challenge, to be held at Roslagshallen in Stockholm, and is tailored for clubs, facility owners, stakeholders, and investors who are passionate about shaping the next chapter of our sport.
As an owner of a squash facility, a multisport centre, or an investor in the sport, you will have the opportunity to attend an insightful lecture by one of the most renowned and experienced professionals in squash court construction, facility operations, investments, and what is internationally known as “club life.” Markus Gaebel from the SFN will provide an analysis of why squash has faced challenges in Europe and how it can once again become successful and highly profitable.
If you wish to witness some fantastic squash later in the day on Saturday, you are more than welcome. We can continue answering any questions you may have at the squash centre.
Below is the preliminary agenda, which may be modified in certain points.
Conference Agenda
Saturday, October 26 - Idrottens Hus
11:30 – 12:00: Check-in, meet and greet, and registration at Idrottens Hus.
12:00 – 12:45: Joint lunch.
12:45 – 13:00: Jonas Frick – Welcome address, purpose of the conference, and expectations. How do we want to shape squash in Sweden? Presentation of the agenda.
13:00 – 13:45: Markus Gaebel – Insights and Analysis: What can we learn from the developments of the last 40 years? Can a facility with squash be profitable? How do new markets think? How can a facility/club become sustainable and strong? Four important future areas.
13:45 – 14:00: Coffee break.
14:00 – 14:30: Speed Dating – Inspiration and Insights from Successful Initiatives:
School Cooperations: From recruitment to retention in squash.
Communities: The importance of community.
Digital Exercise Bank: Inspiration, planning, and development.
65+: Profitability of unbooked courts and potential volunteers.
SquashLevels.
14:30 – 15:00: Group Discussions – Walk or discuss the presented topics. The last 10 minutes for presentations/comments on how these initiatives could promote squash in Sweden.
15:00 – 15:15: Tomi Niinimäki – Presentation and thoughts on the SSqf Trainer Academy. Structure, engagement from clubs and facility operators. Benefits for Swedish squash and plans for 2024–25 and beyond.
15:15 – 15:30: Open Discussion – Challenges and potential of coaches and leaders in clubs and facilities. Possible support from SSqf.
15:40: Hotel check-in, then subway to Rådmansgatan and walk to Roslagshallen. After the matches, dinner and social gathering.
Sunday, October 27 - Hotel Skanstull
10:00 – 10:10: Jonas Frick – Recap of Saturday and outlook for Sunday.
10:10 – 10:30: Viktor Högberg – Communication: Presentation of the new website and plans for social media and support.
10:30 – 10:40: Group Discussions – Use and communication of social media in clubs and facilities.
10:40 – 10:55: Coffee break.
10:55 – 11:15: Jan-Ulf Söderberg – Federation grants: Trainer Academy, junior programs, school cooperations, and offers for adults 26+.
11:15 – 11:45: Guest Speaker – Successful examples: New courts, junior programs, competitions, and social media at the club level.
11:45 – 12:00: Panel Discussion – Open discussion about initiatives and funding opportunities from the federation.
12:00 – 12:45: Lunch.
12:45 – 13:15: Representatives from RFSISU – Support opportunities from RF and SISU for clubs.
13:15 – 13:25: Panel Discussion – Support opportunities from SISU for clubs.
13:25 – 13:40: Jan-Ulf Söderberg and Jonas Frick – Insights into the federation's work, budget allocation, and future aspirations.
13:40 – 13:55: Coffee break.
13:55 – 14:30: Open Discussion – The future of squash in Sweden: Needs of the clubs, ambitions, and expectations.
14:30 – 15:00: Jonas Frick – Summary of the conference and joint commitments.
We look forward to your participation in this pivotal event that aims to shape the future of squash in Sweden. Your insights and contributions are invaluable to the growth and success of our sport.
For more information and to confirm your attendance, click here or contact:
Email: Jan-Ulf Söderberg <jan-ulf.soderberg@squash.se>
Let’s work together to create a thriving future for squash in Sweden!
It would be great to see a similar write-up on the outcomes of the discussions. Agenda looks great