Did you know that there are two squash courts available to CDHB staff?
These are located near the corner of St Asaph St/Hagley Ave, by Eye Outpatients Clinic. On the CDHB Intranet map of Christchurch Hospital, they are shown as the little grey building in front of the Diabetes Centre.
How do I get started?
First, ensure that your CURRENT physical health is at the appropriate level for squash. Squash (when you can hit the ball!) can be a vigorous game. It is strongly advised that you are/become “moderately” physically active (i.e. have been doing some low intensity activity already regularly), and always work at your own level when you play.
You should also complete a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PARQ) to ensure you are literally physically ready. Completion of this questionnaire is compulsory prior to attending any onsite courses supported by HEAL, since we want to encourage you to enjoy physical activity safely!!
See the training plans section for more info and guidelines on this and/or to join one of the many other initiatives going on around the CDHB that support people toward becoming more active.
I'm ready to play, what's next?
Attending a course is an ideal way to get started or get back into it. Two beginners courses have been held at the courts since Oct 2009, which has led to a small group of “newbie” enthusiasts playing socially whenever they get a chance. As a result of the interest, two more 6-week courses are on offer from Wednesday 12th May:
- Beginners: 4.30-5.30pm
- Intermediate: 5.30-6.30pm
Both of these courses are for an hour each for 6 consecutive weeks, at a cost of $45 per person to cover the costs of the (professional) coach and use of the facility. If you are interested in registering for one of these, or for 1-1 or 1-2 lessons ($40/hour) please email Tim, the coach.
Social nights are also a fun way of playing those you might not normally in the fun atmosphere of a group. Simply turn up from 3.30-6.00pm (first person there grab the key!), put $2 in the honesty box if you are not a member and play away! All levels welcome. Social nights are Wednesdays until the end of April, then will be on Thursdays until further notice. Social tournaments bring a bit of friendly competition and learning into the mix. If you are interested in attending one of these or being on a tennis ladder, please complete the CDHB Squash Options Sheet to register your interest.
To ensure that the numbers of staff enjoying squash within the CDHB continue to increase, it is recognised that developing the current club is an essential step. We want to develop this as best suits you!
How can I get access to the courts?
For casual use
There is a key, rackets and balls available from the receptionists at Christchurch Women’s Hospital for $4 per sign out. You must give them your swipe card as security for the key, which will be given back as soon as you return it. A racket is also available to hire for $4 if needed.
To book the courts you need to do so AT THE COURTS (tricky for the first time you play there, but after that pre-book when you are at the courts!) The booking sheets allow you to book up to two weeks in advance, and is updated every Monday.
For members
For $100, you are given a key which gives you access for an entire year from March to the following February. This fee pays for the upkeep of the courts/building which include shower facilities. To join up as a member contact Grant Moore (x80322)
What do I need?
Appropriate NON MARKING trainers (cross trainers rather than running shoes) are essential. Comfortable clothes to move in are helpful. You will get warm, so it is not advised to wear work clothes.
There are changing and shower facilities at the courts. A racket and a ball of course if you have one (see details below of where you can loan these from in the shorter term), a towel and a water bottle, (you’ll get warm!) and most definitely a smile. You are going to have fun!
Last updated: 26 April 2010