Celebrating International Women's Day with Jenny Duncalf

With today celebrating International Women’s Day, Squash Australia spoke with Performance Pathways Coach Jenny Duncalf, who is responsible for ushering through the next generation of talent.

Duncalf herself an international squad player who represented England in over 100 games, is now looking to share her knowledge and love of squash with the future generation of Australian athletes.  

Duncalf is impressed by how far the visibility for women’s sport has come but thinks it still has a way to go.

“When I was young you didn’t particularly see it ... You can’t be it if you can’t see it. I had posters of male footballers on my wall and I might have had posters of female footballers on my wall if that was around when I was younger. It is so important to find stories of female success to inspire the next generations,” she said. 

“I think Australia is doing pretty well at the moment with girls in sport but it is just trying to encourage them more and more that it is normal to go and watch the grand final of the women’s AFL as it is the men. It is the quality and exposure and then hopefully participation.” 

After reaching her career highest ranking beating Nicol David at the Qatar Classic in 2009, her fondest memories are of representing England. 

“My favourite memories are probably my team event stuff. The Commonwealth Games and playing for England, I always enjoyed being part of a team and representing my country,” said Duncalf. 

Now moving from playing to coaching duties, Duncalf is excited for the new challenge as she mentors the youth of Australia and hopes to impart some of her love of the game.

“Show them that the world is their oyster if they work hard and have fun. I just like seeing them enjoy the sport,” she said. 

“Big opportunity in Australia at the moment to become a professional squash player so just to encourage and motivate them.”