50 years of courting

Time to party - Henderson Squash Club is turning 50. Its members tell Rowena Orejana it is one of the best facilities of its kind, citywide.
The air is a bit stale and a glass is left on top of the bar. This is about the only evidence left of the good time that was had the previous night at the Henderson Squash Club.
"We are currently hosting the Henderson A-Grade Tournament. We have players from as far as the South Island," explains Greg Harper, club patron. "We had a party for them last night."
It's a busy time as the club is celebrating its 50th jubilee on February 27. It has hosted numerous world championships while remaining active in the community.
"It all started in some makeshift facilities in Ratanui St - right in the heart of Henderson.
"Within a very short time, membership grew to such an extent that some of the original founders expanded their plan further and invested in acreage on what was then the outskirts of Henderson," Mr Harper explains.
The building put up some 30 years ago is now a landmark in West Auckland.
It has six competition courts,  two tennis courts, a full kitchen and bar facilities and can accommodate up to 250 people.
"It is one of the best squash facilities in Auckland," he says.
"The encouraging fact is that on Friday nights there will be up to 50 or more juniors enjoying a safe haven at club at night and not on the street."
The youngest players are about 7 years old.
"As long as they are old enough to hold a racquet, they're on the court playing," he says.
The children are professionally coached. They are not all sons and daughters of the club members.
Some are students from  nearby schools. "A lot of schools utilise our courts for their competitions," Mr Harper notes.
On the other hand, some of the  foundation members are very much involved and a few are still playing the game.
 
"Several generations of club members have happily celebrated weddings, christenings, 21st birthdays, engagements and the likes over the years," says Mr Harper.
Contact Shella, ph 838 8628 or email: hendersonsquash@xtra.co.nz