Serving Up Excellence: UKZN’s Squash Courts Back in Top Form

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The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) recently unveiled its newly refurbished squash courts, located at the Sports Centre on the Westville campus.

The facility, which comprises six courts renovated to international standards along with male and female ablution facilities, is now ready for use by staff, students, and external stakeholders through a booking system.

As custodians of sporting facilities, the Sports Division, together with Campus Management Services (CMS), undertook a rigorous procurement process to refurbish the squash courts, which were damaged by the 2019 floods.

UKZN Acting Sports Manager Mr Zweli Sapula said they had sourced an internationally acclaimed company to build the squash courts according to specifications provided by CMS.

“The courts are made of special Malaysian wood, which is designed to cushion players’ knees and bodies during play. Malaysia is home to many top squash athletes, which is why this material was chosen,” he said. 

Sapula said the squash courts will enable the Sports Division to foster relations with the squash federation, allowing them to host league matches and tournaments, and in return generate revenue.

He added that the new courts would help revive the sport and provide previously disadvantaged students and communities with the opportunity to immerse themselves in squash. “This bold step will enable the division to increase the number of league players at UKZN and diversify participation, as we regularly send our students to compete in national and international tournaments,” said Sapula.

Executive Director of Corporate Relations Division, Ms Normah Zondo, expressed her excitement about the launch of the state-of-the-art facility, noting that it serves as a strong selling point for the University.

“Having this kind of facility elevates our marketing pitch and showcases UKZN’s commitment to Goal 2 of the Strategic Plan - an excellent student experience. We are confident that CMS will ensure it is well maintained so that our students and the broader UKZN community can enjoy its full benefits.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this project to life - we can’t wait to see the courts in use,” she said.

Mr Andre Jansen, Treasurer of the KZN Squash Union, said that as a sport that relies heavily on proper facilities, they were very excited to see the squash courts being renovated and to witness the University’s commitment to growing and developing the sport. “From the Union’s point of view, it’s always fantastic to see schools, universities and clubs investing in facilities and providing opportunities to play. We hope to see some future world number ones emerging from this university,” he said.

Dean of Student Services, Professor Percy Sepeng, said the refurbishment of the squash courts reflected UKZN’s continued investment in the holistic development and wellbeing of its students.

“This facility goes beyond sport - it represents our commitment to creating an environment where students can flourish physically, mentally, and socially. These internationally standardised courts will not only nurture athletic talent but also strengthen recreation and University pride,” he said.

The first squash match on the newly renovated courts marked an exciting start to the use of the facility, with UKZN student Mr Nashveer Naidoo securing a 2-1 victory over staff member Mr Vasu Chetty.

The squash courts are open Monday to Friday, from 08h00 to 19h00.

Bookings can be made through the UKZN Sports Division.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini