The second member in this section is one of our younger members who is also known for making you think “How did she do that”
Today we welcome Paryss Bee
Hi Paryss
Welcome and thanks for volunteering to take part in this our second Meet our Members section.
Let’s start with the usual question, when and how did you get into squash?
“I’ve always had an interest in squash because growing up I would often go with my dad to watch him play. When he’d have an important match I use to make posters and cheer him on. As I got older I became more interested in the game and how to play. Sometimes my dad would take me on court for a little session where we’d hit the ball back to one another. Then during secondary school I wanted to learn about the game more and start playing proper games with people. To start I just played some friendly games with people who could help teach me the proper technique. Then I decided to attend the summer squash nights where I could get on court with a range of people. I found this really helped to bring my game on. After this I would always go up on a Sunday afternoon to do the training sessions and I decided to join the internal leagues which were really fun. In September 2019 I started my first team season for the club which was great and really brought my game on as well as my competitiveness.”
It’s great to hear that the club put on these sessions to encourage players of all abilities, now because you are one of our younger members this question should be easy, how old were you when you first saw a squash court?
“I was very young when I first saw a squash court. An early memory of me playing on a squash court was when I was on holiday in Zimbabwe. My dad took me and I had a mini coaching session with a coach and his son. It was a very fun and inspiring session that I’ll never forget.”
That’s interesting Paryss, is that what encouraged you to take up the game?
“I remember always being interested in the game from watching my dad but I specifically remember watching him play in the knockout final in 2006. That memory encouraged me to take it up as I wanted to play at a standard similar to my dad and maybe do well enough to win my own trophy in the future.”
I’m sure trophies will come your way Paryss but this pandemic has meant most competitions were cancelled for the near future, so have you been able to get on court during the last few months?
“I have been lucky enough to get on court a bit in the last few months. I have had several training sessions with Alan Borrill when we were allowed which I felt helped me to get back into the swing of things as well as really bring my game on. When we could dad and I would go up and have a few games just to keep fit. I did win most of them if anyone asks… you took the words right out my mouth Paryss!”
What are you currently doing to stay fit for the return to squash and to maintain that winning streak?
“In the current lockdown I have been making sure to go on plenty of walks as well as running and occasionally going out on my bike.”
What are your plans outside of squash?
“In my life outside of squash I work in the marketing sector and I have just started a new job where I will be creating content for a construction training company. I really enjoy learning and using filming techniques to market a business and generate interest. My main plan is to work in the TV/Film industry as I love this industry and the creativity that comes along with it. Hopefully when the pandemic is over I will have more opportunities to follow my career aim.” Lets hope so Paryss
Now I know you were playing team squash before we had to shut down, how did you feel when you first played for the App Frod team?
“I felt very lucky and proud the first time I played for the App Frod team as I was representing the club. I really enjoyed playing a more competitive game to what I normally would and I felt more determined to give it my all as the rest of my team watched.”
How would you like to see the club move forward when we are allowed back on court?
“Once we are allowed back on court I’d like to see the club offer more coaching opportunities so players can develop and learn techniques and tactics which can be used in team games. I also think it is important to attract more junior and female members to the club to bring on the future generations of squash players. When we can I think more squash nights and training opportunities would be good to create a better sense of community along with the game.” Couldn’t agree more Paryss and the sooner the better.
Do you have a player you would like to play and win?
“From when I played team squash last year I have one opponent that I would really like to beat. I played them 3 times in the season but unfortunately lost every time but I managed to gain more points each match we had. I feel that after some more coaching and practice I would have a really good chance to beat them. Hopefully after the pandemic I will have an opportunity to do so.” Interesting no name mentioned Paryss, always nice to keep a target to yourself, that way you are controlling the plan.
Do you have any other hobbies or skills?
“As most people know at the club I also do a bit of close up card magic which has been a passion of mine for 7 years now. When my dad would have team games I would take a few decks of cards and amaze his opponents after the game. In recent times it has been hard to perform for people due to the pandemic but I have continued to learn new tricks and keep my Instagram account up to date with photos.”
I’ve seen these card tricks Paryss which are pretty amazing and have been many a topic of conversation amongst visiting teams.
Just a last thank you Paryss for what has been a really interesting and enjoyable interview with one of App Frod Squash future stars
So the last words are over to you.
“Hopefully soon we will all be able to get back on court and continue to play the game we are all so passionate about. But until then, I hope you all stay safe.”