Nanaimo Squash Club

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The Big Interview
Angus Monaghan on his off court Passion

Afternoon Angus, how’s the backhand drop?

What is that suppose to mean? Actually, my backhand is not the problem, I happen to like the sound the ball makes when it hits the tin.

It does sound like a tin factory in there right enough….How long have you been a member of NSC?

I have been a proud member for over 11 years. I joined when I moved to Nanaimo in an attempt to meet nice people….I’m still looking….just kidding.

What do you love about the game of squash?

I love that squash is not simply an excellent workout, but very much requires strategy and tactics….I get a great workout anyway.

Which player do you just love to beat and why?

Bar none, Gord Cote, not just because it is so easy to do, but the simple joy of getting into his head and messin about.

I see what you’re doing there….proudest achievement as a past board member?

I guess for me the proudest achievement was finally getting the awning over the entrance… no, wait that wasn’t us; I guess it was the new lockers, no not us either…well I guess we raised the monthly dues.

Angus, you are known as a player of great passion on court. Care to comment on your off court performance?

My passion is consistent off the court as well; I approach a post-game beverage with the same conviction and competitive edge. It is a time to reflect on the play of my opponent and dismantle whatever may be left of their self-respect and confidence..…what? why you looking at me like that?

Actually I wasn’t thinking about Beer…A lion and tiger are thrown together on court one…who walks out alive? (Come to think of it throw yourself into the mix)

Neither lion nor tiger would emerge; no explanation necessary.

Lashing in a scorcher at indoor soccer or nicking out after an epic rally with Cote?

The scorcher in soccer; there is a certain degree of luck for me with the nick, while no luck involved for the scorcher – even better if Cote was defending.

Bit of a Cote theme emerging, may need to refer you two to Capt Backhand for a wee bit of “healing”…Three sports stars you’d invite for a jar or two in the lounge?

• George Best
• Mohammed Ali
• Anna Kornikova

Yes a corker indeed!…What annoying trait or behaviour, (not necessarily your own) would you banish forever more to court 4?

Any behaviour which may result in my losing should never be witnessed by others. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not competitive or anything. It’s just that the only thing I hate more than losing is having witnesses…what? again with the look.

Most treasured squash memory?

This last NSC Squash Tournament – my final victory was against one of the premier female squash players on the Island (out of respect I am not prepared to name names)…I am not sure that I personally need to play another tournament match.

How could our club improve?

By building a deck off the lounge to allow for an evening beverage or two and a permanent hot tub – ok maybe another glass court.

Bit of an alcohol theme emerging….AA is just around the corner you know…Currently on your CD player?

Not sure – probably Blue Rodeo

Cutting edge musical taste eh?…OK then…thrashing Steve Bassett 9-0, 9-0, 9-0 or a week in Mexico?

Week in Mexico – no matter how bad I beat Steve, I know he either was just being nice or trying to even it up somehow – like playing with his left hand or something…However, nutmegging Steve in Soccer….priceless.

Couldn’t agree more…thanks Angus