Presented to Graham Robinson, Chairman of Windscale Squash Club

This summary will only tell part of what Graham has done and achieved for his club as an unpaid volunteer directly involved in the administration of the club for almost 30 years; as a committee member, then secretary and for the last 15 years or so as Chairman.

Graham has been the driving force and inspiration in developing the club from the original 2 standard court set up to the lovely thriving club it is today, with 4 courts (including 2 championship standard glass backs), superbly equipped fitness facility, refurbished changing and shower facilities and the provision of the full range of squash and social activities for its members that we expect from a well run club. This makes it one of our top clubs.

There is no doubt that this club is well run - by an effective Management Committee that is directed by Graham on the basis of a rolling 5-year business plan, with continual development and effective financial management given high priority.

As well as providing a squash and general fitness service to its members the club has a wider role in the community supporting the local health service - the Fitness Centre provides a rehabilitation service for patients of the local hospital and local GPs.

Looking at the club from Cumbria Squash perspective it has been a dedicated supporter of the organisation since it was formed - it has supported the County Leagues since they were formed (until recently Graham was a regular team member in the Leagues) and has been, and continues to be, one of our major venues for top County competitions; County Closed Championships, Inter County matches, South African Knights visits and other important CS events. The club also has an active junior group that supports Cumbria Junior Squash initiatives and activities.

Looking at the club on an even wider basis it is currently working closely and directly with England Squash to support the governing body's major national development initiatives. Current progress is: awarded Bronze Level Charter status by England Squash - active with local schools re the introduction of Minisquash Road Shows - working on Coach Development initiatives. I have no doubt that there will be much more to come.

Regardless of the sources of the events it holds - local, County, England Squash - the club has a reputation for excellent hospitality - it is complimented by all visitors who are overwhelmed by the welcome given.

There is a unanimous feeling by members of the club that very little of what I have reported above would have been achieved without Graham's vision and initiative to develop new ideas and concepts and his ability to provide leadership, from the front, to manage projects efficiently and see them through to effective completion.

What a great achievement - what a lifetime commitment. As a result of this there is no doubt in my mind or in the minds of the other members of the Executive Committee that Graham has been a major contributor to the success of Cumbria Squash organisation and the promotion of our sport in the County over the years. On that basis we are pleased to select him as the well deserved recipient of the "Hazel Award" this season.

Tom Armstrong
Chairman