Abby Devoy, 12, and Dame Susan Devoy. Photo / Dave Lintott / lintottphoto.co.nz
“Good luck, Abby,” says Dame Susan Devoy.
The former world champion was a dominant force on squash courts around the world, but today the Dame is just a supporter. She looks on proudly as her great-niece steps into an arena she knows so well.
Dame Devoy has walked to the squash court from her Mount Maunganui home just in time to watch Abby Devoy, 12, warming up on the courts. She is a familiar face at the squash courts, as some of the parents, organisers, and young athletes greet her as she arrives.
Abby says it is a “bit nerve-racking” having her great aunt at her game, but she is used to it by now.
She has taken on one or two tips from the Dame, and hopes to one day play squash as a professional too.
The Otumoetai Intermediate pupil said she had been playing squash for more than a year and enjoyed being able to meet new people through the sport.
“It has taught me a lot,” she said. “It has taught me that when you are playing somebody [who has a skill level] higher than you, you can learn from them.”
Wilson said the Aims Games tournament was great in allowing children an opportunity to shine in their sports.
“It gives them exposure to a different level of competition. Win or lose, you just want to see your kids happy.”
Squash code co-ordinator Ross McCurran said the Aims Games were a good platform for young athletes starting out in their careers.
“Some kids are relatively new to squash and this is their first competition. For our sport, that is really important,” he said. “Sport doesn’t reveal character, it builds character.”