Canadian and US National Squash Champion

Rashid Aziz has a very busy year ahead of him. The 30-year member of the Jericho Tennis Club will be competing in the over-70 category of three international squash championships in 2024—the U.S. Squash Masters in Philadelphia this April, the Canadian Squash Masters in Calgary this May, and the World Squash Masters in Amsterdam this August.

Rashid has been playing squash competitively for 20 years. His love for the game stems from combining the sport’s high physical intensity with the strategic demands of a chess game. Leading up to these championships, Rashid says that his first goal is to remain injury-free. “I work out six days a week alternating between swimming, squash, weight training and fast walking,” he says. “Warming up and stretching is now a must-have before and after the game.” He also says that he has been having regular physiotherapy and massage appointments every month, as well as prioritizing sleep, hydration and healthy eating.

To help him prepare, Rashid relies heavily on the Jericho training staff. He has been working with Ian Hilts for years to keep his body in shape, and Richard Yendall has increased the intensity of his on-court movement and racquet play. “Their professional knowledge and encouragement have been so supportive in reaching my goal to participate in these three squash masters events,” He says.

Having previously won master titles in the over-60 and over-65 categories, Rashid says he approached the over-70 category with a new gusto. “I had to work on both the physical and mental aspects of the game,” he says. “Competing at 70 requires more shot-making as players are slower than they were in their prime.” He has worked on reducing unforced errors, quickness on the court and thinking of the point being played.

Rashid’s children, Alex and Rachel, also play squash, and he says it is a joy to share this experience with them. They participate in the Thursday night fun squash league together. “A special thanks to Brad White and Daryl Leopold for organizing this fabulous social event that combines squash, drinks and music,” he says.

Many of us view getting older as the time when accomplishments cease, and things start to slow down, but Rashid proves this doesn’t have to be the case. “Turning 70 is a powerful milestone and a great opportunity to reflect on time left,” he says. “I would encourage you to not take life for granted, to exercise regularly, eat and drink moderately, and as I was recently advised, ‘be wild but only to 9 p.m. or so!’

Last summer, amidst the warm breeze and golden sunsets of Jericho, I had the honor of being recognized at an award presentation ceremony. Surrounded by the picturesque beauty of the Jericho landscape, I stood alongside my family, sharing a moment of immense pride and gratitude.