Malcolm's stepson and England Performance Coach
When did you meet Malcolm?
The first time I ever played squash! I was seven years old, I was at the local squash club and my dad had taken me down there for a hit. At that time, Malcolm was coaching some of the top players in the country, and they were based at the club. As he walked across the balcony he spotted me playing, he just said to my dad that he would like to coach me, and that was it. He took me under his wing, and I think I was down there every day after that.
I think that life brought you closer together, didn’t it?
Yes, I lived with him for about nine years.
What did he bring to your life at a personal level?
A lot actually. You know, Malcolm takes you on only if he likes you, and if he likes you, he will put a lot of time into you. He believes in working with you not only on a squash level, but also on a more personal level. He is very strict towards his pupils, he teaches them very good manners and makes sure that they are always very polite. He commands a lot of respect and you always thank him after a session, which I know he appreciates. But you soon learn his way. He teaches you a lot of good values about life.
You’ve seen a lot of players starting, haven’t you?
Yes! I was there when a ten year old Lee hit his first squash ball with Malcolm, and obviously I was there when James hit his first squash ball, he was three.
What is your relationship with Malcolm?
I have a very good relationship with Malcolm. He was married to my mum, together they brought me up throughout my formative years. Due to the circumstances, at this point in my life I wasn't as close to my dad, so Malcolm took that role. He's got his funny ways ... if he doesn't like you, he won't speak to you, I had a lot of that at times when I was a mischevious young lad! However, he has been a great influence in my life.
What is his principal fault, or faults?
His driving! And doesn't admit when he's wrong!! (although he will claim that's because he is always right!)
And his biggest quality?
His loyalty I think. He is very, very loyal to his players and to people around him that he cares for, he is very supportive. Let me put it this way. If he is behind you, and you work hard for him, then there is no one better to have in your corner. But if you cross him in any way, you need to hide.
3 words to describe him?
Opinionated, loyal, unique.
And to finish?
He brought me up not just as a squash player, but as a person, and for that I am very grateful.
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