SONO Sharks Inaugurate New Era of Squash with 4-0 Victory over Lake Erie Beacons! by Katline Cauwels May 4, 2025 -NORWALK, CT
- The SONO Sharks have made a splash in the National Squash League
(NSL) by securing a historic victory in their inaugural match. The
Sharks' debut was more than just a win; it was a spectacle that
redefined squash, combining top-tier athleticism with an unprecedented
entertainment experience.
The match, held on the MSQUASH SONO Glass court, showcased the NSL's
innovative format, which features shorter, more dynamic games designed
for spectator excitement. Adding to the thrill, attendees enjoyed
courtside dining, transforming the event into a unique social gathering.
The Sono Sharks team was led by World #12 Salma Hany from Egypt, World
#69 Yashmita Kumar from Malaysia and World #86 Maddie Hylland.
They beat the Lake Erie Beacons team from Ohio in 3 straight period
4-0: 30-25, 43-24, 55-48.
Belgian Katline Cauwels, co-owner of MSquash and USSquash Coach of the
Year ‘24 is the Shark’s coach: it was a great first match with all
players strong on defense during powerplays, lasting in long rallies
without making mistakes. The new format make the sport of squash even
faster, unpredictable and exciting until the very end. The players
substitutions are a completely new thing for the fans and for the
players, and everyone loved it.
Co-owner of the Sharks, Shaun Moxham said: "Tonight was electric, our
team played with heart, and the atmosphere was unbelievable. The energy
from the crowd, combined with the new format and the courtside dining,
created an experience unlike anything squash has ever seen."
“It’s all in the fin” - cheered the crowd at the end of the match as
Egyptian Salma Hany was the last player on court finalizing a strong
win for the CT team.
The Sharks' victory marks a significant milestone for the NSL and for
the sport of squash. By introducing a more accessible and entertaining
format, the league aims to broaden squash's appeal and attract a new
generation of fans.
"We're not just playing squash; we're putting on a show," said Margot
Prow, SONO Sharks player from Barbados. "Tonight proved that squash can
be both a high-level sport and a fantastic night out. We're proud to be
leading this revolution."
The next SONO Sharks match is scheduled for may 16 at 6pm at in Cleveland Ohio. You can rewatch the Sharks spectacle here:
The SONO Sharks are a professional squash team competing in the
National Squash League. They are committed to excellence on the court
and innovation in the sport's presentation, aiming to bring squash and
the women’s game to a wider audience through exciting matches and
engaging fan experiences.
About the NSL
The National Squash League is a new professional squash league focused
on creating a more dynamic and entertaining format for the sport. The
NSL aims to attract new fans and elevate squash's profile through its
innovative rules, shorter matches, and interactive spectator
experiences.
