Jamaica Squash Association and KPMG have renewed their long-standing partnership with the official launch of the 26th staging of the KPMG Squash League at the Liguanea Club.
The opening ceremony featured a vibrant team parade, with players donning branded uniforms in a colourful display ahead of the competition. Although defending champions Blown will not return this season, anticipation remains high, particularly with last year’s finalists, the Saints, set to challenge for the title.
This year’s format will test endurance as well as technical ability. Matches will be played to 21 points instead of the traditional 11, placing greater emphasis on fitness across the months-long tournament.
The 14-team league began competition on Tuesday evening and is scheduled to conclude on April 10. Each squad consists of four players, including one reserve. Participants range from emerging juniors to seasoned veterans, with varying skill levels competing under a handicap system designed to create balanced matchups.
Among the creatively named teams are Rally Royals, Racket Science, Just Hit, Dem Indians, One Of A Kind, Squashbucklers, Badmanfu and Boast Warriors. Institutional teams include Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), Campion College and a Juniors outfit. Title sponsor KPMG has again fielded a team, marking its second consecutive year of on-court participation.
The Liguanea Club, home to six recently renovated squash courts, will host matches on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with most fixtures beginning at 6:00 p.m.
President of the Jamaica Squash Association, Karen Anderson, commended KPMG for its sustained commitment, noting that the league remains the longest-running sponsored event on the association’s calendar. She also highlighted the growing number of junior players involved this season, describing their participation as a positive sign for the sport’s future.
Tournament director Nathlee Boreland explained that the handicap structure levels the field by awarding starting points to lower-ranked players, while higher-ranked competitors begin at zero or with a deficit. With games extending to 21 points, advanced players must overcome significant margins to secure victory.
KPMG partner Al Johnson reaffirmed the company’s support, citing the developmental value of the league in preparing young athletes for competition at local, regional and international levels.
Saints captain Mario O’Connor expressed disappointment at not facing defending champions Blown but said his team remains focused on reaching the final and securing the trophy this year.
Opening night produced competitive matchups. Campion College defeated JDF B two games to one, Rally Royals swept KPMG three-nil, Racket Science edged Just Hit two-one, and Dem Indians overcame One Of A Kind by the same margin to close out the evening’s play.
Advertise with McKoy’s News!
🚀 Boost Your Business with McKoy’s News! 🚀
Let us help you grow your brand with our comprehensive advertising solutions:
Create Your Own Business Page:
Showcase your business with a personalized page on McKoy’s News. Highlight your products or services with multiple photos, contact information, and detailed descriptions.
Engaging Banner Ads:
Capture attention with visually stunning banner ads that promote your brand across our website, reaching a large audience with every click.
Dynamic Video Ads:
Tell your story with impactful video advertisements, designed to engage viewers and drive traffic to your business.
Feature Articles:
Gain credibility and visibility with feature articles on McKoy’s News. Share your success stories, latest offerings, and expert insights with our readers.
Ready to Elevate Your Business?
Contact us today and let McKoy’s News be your partner in success.
