Zena Woolridge, the Chair of England Squash and Racketball and International Leadership Programme (ILP) Alumni member, has been appointed Vice President of the European Squash Federation (ESF) and will sit on its Executive Board.
Working with National Governing Bodies, UK Sport seeks to ensure that the UK plays a key role in the development and governance of international sport via relationship building with International Federations and other key international sporting organisations. The ILP, launched in 2006, forms part of this remit and is designed to help the UK’s sporting administrators become effective international operators.
Commenting on her appointment, Woolridge, said: “It is a very exciting time to be moving further into the international arena, especially with the IOC decision on squash’s Olympic inclusion only months away, and at a time when the UK can make a significant contribution to the further development of squash across Europe’s 40-odd member nations. My role will initially focus on further developing the refereeing framework and improving the quality and coverage of squash coaching across Europe. Sitting within the largest national squash federation in the world, it will be a fascinating next few years working with some nations that are starting off with just a handful of courts, and helping them grow.”
Ben Calveley, Head of International Relations at UK Sport, said: “Zena’s appointment is a result of successful campaigning by England Squash and is a testament to her commitment to the sport. We are delighted that an ILP alumni member has secured the Vice Presidency of a European Federation and with another Briton, Chris Stahl as the Vice President of the World Squash Federation we are well placed to influence the governance of the sport in the future.
Nick Rider, Chief Executive of England Squash and Racketball, said: “I’m delighted that Zena has been successful in the election for Vice President of the European Federation. She brings considerable skills and experience to the federation – and her roles in chairing the ESF Coaching and Development Committees will further strengthen our relationship.”