WJC Profile | Sarbani Maitra

The recently crowned U19 and U17 Girls Queensland Junior Champion, Sarbani Maitra has always loved the fast-paced nature of the sport, first picking up a racquet when she was nine years old.

The now 15-year-old reflected that attending the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and watching the Squash competition at Carrara Stadium was a catalyst for her setting the goal of representing Australia.  

“In January 2018, my Dad who played recreationally decided to take my brother and I to the courts at Acacia Ridge Squash Centre and have a go at the game,” said Sarbani. 

“I immediately loved the fast-paced nature of the sport and have been playing ever since, making it about six years now. 

“That same year, I had the incredible experience of attending the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. After watching Cameron Pilley and Donna Lobban clinch the mixed doubles titles, I knew I wanted to play for Australia too.”

Sarbani has taken another element of the 2018 Commonwealth Games with her, in the form of the competition floor. 
 
“I'm lucky we have our court at my parent's shed, which is about 10 minutes from my house,” said Sarbani. 

“It has the spare court flooring from the 2018 Commonwealth Games. I am very grateful to my parents for giving me the best opportunities to succeed.”

In 2023, Sarbani travelled to the Canadian Junior Open where she finished in fourth place, a feat she says is her biggest achievement in international competition. 

“It was amazing to play against so many different people from so many other nations and even get to play on the glass court in the Semi Finals,” said Sarbani.  

Sarbani is currently training under the watchful eye of coach Robyn Prentice. “Robyn has been an incredible mentor and has played a massive role in my development as a player,” said Sarbani. 

“Her dedication and guidance have been key to my success, and she always knows how to push me to reach my full potential.”

Off the court, Sarbani is a keen musician, sharing “Music has always been a big part of my life because it's a great way to unwind and express myself creatively outside the squash court. I play violin, guitar, flute and sing.” 
 
Sarbani is looking forward to achieving her goal of representing Australia in international competition at this month’s World Junior Championships in Houston, Texas. 

“Representing my country at the World Junior Championships is a dream come true,” said Sarbani. 

“It is an incredible honour and a validation of all the hard work and dedication I have put into the sport over the years. 

“It will be fantastic to play against some of the best juniors in the world, gain valuable experiences, and bring back lessons and memories that will last a lifetime.
 
“My main goal is to bring out my best squash, represent the green and gold to the best of my abilities, and make some great memories in the process.”