Today is a part 1 deep-dive with non-other than icoconinc England Squash coach David Campion.

With over two decades at the forefront of England Squash, David has not only led the national team to unparalleled success but has also shaped the careers of some of the sport's biggest names.

In this episode, we journey through David’s history, starting with his early days in West Yorkshire, where he was coached by the legendary Malcolm Willstrop.

We explore how this early immersion in a world-class squash environment, surrounded by future stars like Peter Marshall and Simon Parke, set the stage for his future achievements.

David shares personal stories from his junior career, including his own experiences as a world junior finalist, offering listeners a glimpse into the foundation of his deep understanding of the game.

But it’s not just about history.

We dive deep into the intricacies of his coaching philosophy, where David opens up about the mental and physical demands of high-performance squash.

He discusses the significance of mindset and resilience, illustrating how elite athletes like Nick Matthew and James Willstrop have harnessed these qualities to achieve greatness.

David recounts specific examples, such as how Nick Matthew adapted his training to overcome challenges on bouncy courts, or how Laura Massaro developed a devastating counter-drop to neutralise the aggressive front-court play of her Egyptian rivals.

One of the highlights of our conversation is David’s candid discussion about the pressures of modern coaching.

He shares invaluable insights into balancing the technical aspects of the game with the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest levels.

We also touch on the importance of creating a nurturing yet challenging environment for young players—a philosophy that has guided his work with emerging talents in England's squash scene.

Listeners will also find David’s thoughts on early specialisation versus a broader, multi-sport approach particularly enlightening.

He provides a nuanced view on the topic, informed by both his experiences as a coach and his personal journey in the sport.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches looking to refine their approach, players aspiring to reach the top, and anyone fascinated by the mindset of elite athletes.

David’s stories and insights offer a rare and valuable perspective on what it takes to excel in squash and beyond.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the sport’s most respected voices in this first of 2 parts.

Please sit back, and enjoy!

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