Two Bermudians recently participated in a Level 3 coaching course held in the Cayman Islands.

Micah Franklin and Anaya Smith were part of a group from across the Caribbean and beyond that took the course — and will be required to submit six months of lesson plans, which, if approved, will result in them attaining their qualification.

According to the Bermuda Squash Association, the weeklong course provided an invaluable opportunity for professional development and collaboration.

“The course focused on advanced coaching principles, including player development pathways, performance analysis, physical preparation and psychological coaching,” BSA said.

“Participants engaged in both theoretical and on-court practical sessions designed to enhance their ability to support athletes at all stages of their sporting journey.

“Micah and Anaya described the course as ‘extremely insightful’, noting that it offered modern coaching methods and tools that will directly benefit Bermuda’s squash community.

“Both coaches expressed their enthusiasm to implement new strategies within the Bermuda Squash Racquets Association programmes and to share the knowledge gained with fellow local coaches.

“Their participation underscores Bermuda’s commitment to developing high-quality coaching across all sports and ensuring that Bermudian athletes have access to world-class instruction and mentorship.”

Meanwhile, with Franklin not eligible to play as full-time employee of the association, Smith will be one of favourites for the men’s title at the BSA Club Championships, running from Monday to Friday.

Smith is the No 2 seed in the men’s competition, where Noah Browne is the top seed. For the women, Eilidh Franklin is the defending champion in a category where Rachel Barnes and Susie Howells are expected to provide great competition.

Some of the island’s top players will be using the club championships to prepare for the Senior Caribbean Championships, scheduled for Georgetown, Guyana, from November 23 to 30.