Sports Reporter
GUWAHATI: National-level squash coach Gautam Das is in Guwahati to attend the 3rd All India Brahmaputra Squash Championship. The former player, who takes care of the North Eastern zone as coach for Squash Rackets Federation of India, spoke for a while with The Sentinel at the side line of the meet. Here is the excerpt.
The Sentinel (TS): You are working to promote the game in the North East. How do you see the prospect of squash in Assam?
Das: There is a possibility in Assam to develop the game. In Guwahati you have a court where the local players can do regular practice. I also witnessed some talented players who can do well in the coming days if quality coaching is provided to them.
TS: But the scenario is not the same in the other states of the North East. Do you agree?
Das: Yes. I agree. Except Assam there is no squash court in the other part of the region. But the good news is that they too have started to show interest in the game. Recently I have met with the officials of the Arunachal Pradesh Squash Association and they are very keen to develop the game. We are also in touch with the other North Eastern states.
TS: What suggestion would you like to give the local players...
Das: I noticed is that the fitness level of the local players is very good. However, they need to improve their technique. At the same time I shall also suggest that they play matches in other cities. It will help them to boost their confidence level.
TS: Have you chalked out plans on how to promote the game in the region?
Das: Actually we need to work in multiple areas to develop the game in the North East. We need more courts for the game and also more coaches. I will visit Guwahati on a regular basis to train players as well as coaches.
TS: What is the scenario of squash in the country?
Das: At present we have many good players who are dominating in the international competitions. Squash is already included in Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. You will witness a boom in the game if it includes the Olympics. However I admit the game needs a little bit of awareness.