Western Australian Sue Hillier inducted into Town of Victoria Park Sporting Walk of Fame

Sue Hillier is a beloved member and well-known figure in the Western Australian squash community. 

From coaching women’s squash clinics and juniors in the state to playing in women’s open and masters competitions across the country, as well as representing Australia on the world stage, she has been heavily involved in the sport in more ways than one.

The reigning World Over 55 Champion was also the WA Squash Development Officer for 12 and a half years.

“The people I play and train with and all the people I meet through the game, the Vic Park Squash Club and the Masters Squash community are why I keep playing,” Hillier said. 

“I like to keep fit and find it is a great sport to get the cardio, agility and mental challenge in a short time.”

More recently Hillier was inducted into the Town of Victoria Park Sporting Walk of Fame for her contribution to squash. 

It’s not the first time the Western Australian has been recognised for her commitment to squash, having also been inducted into the WA Squash Hall of Fame in 2021 and was awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2000.

“I feel very privileged to be inducted for this award. To be included with other famous sporting heroes and coaches is an honour and not something I ever expected,” Hillier said.

“I feel very humbled to receive many awards for my squash career.  

“I never played to receive awards, I have always played for the love of the game,” she added.

First getting her start in squash at the age of 10 with her sister Roslyn, she was introduced to the sport by her mum. Hillier also played tennis and continued to do the two sports for a few years before having to decide one or the other…it’s obvious which sport won her heart.

She went on to win her first WA Open State Championships in 1988 before winning it three consecutive times on two separate occasions, 1993-1995 and 2001-2003, then again in 2018.

The 59-year-old has been heavily involved in coaching, training and developing the next generation of squash players in her home state. 

Many of those players have been coached and mentored at the Leisurelife Centre.

One of those players including Greg Chan, who has made his second Junior World Championship Team and will head to France in August to compete in the individual and teams event.

Hillier’s journey into coaching started in her early 20s when she coached some juniors - she still shares a friendship with those players' parents to this day - and that experience eventually led her to where she is today. 

“I love coaching and being able to give back and pass on some of my knowledge,” said Hillier, who has been coaching juniors at Leisurelife on a voluntary basis since 2002. 

“Being involved with the state junior squads and teams has been hard work but enjoyable to see them improve and grow.”

With no plans at slowing down, Hillier has her eyes on the Trans Tasman Test Series in Adelaide against New Zealand in October. 

Playing in the Masters competition has allowed Hillier and her husband, Paul, to travel around the world, see so many great places and meet so many great people. 

Selected for her fourth series and having won the Over 55 individual title, the Victoria Park local always had fond memories, having made many great friends through the event.

“There is nothing like the New Zealand and Australia rivalry,” Hillier said. “The standard of technique and never-say-die attitude is paramount and the socialising after the game is so friendly and fun. 

“I am looking forward to seeing everyone again…October seems so far away.”