A Scottish squash champion, 12-year-old Callum Smith, was taken aback after witnessing the harsh reality of young South African squash players. His desire to make a difference was unwavering as he rallied his squash community to collect essential supplies and kits to send to South Africa’s Joburg Squash Foundation.
Soweto, South Africa (31 October 2024) – After watching a documentary that captured the raw struggle of impoverished children playing on the dilapidated Gazankulu Squash Court in Soweto, 12-year-old Callum Smith from the other side of the world in Scotland was moved to make a difference – and so he did!
Inspired by their resilience, Callum, a Scottish U13 Champion, organised a heartwarming initiative to collect clothing and kits during a Scottish Inter-Regional Squash event.
This resulted in a massive donation of over 200 squash items including clothes, rackets and shoes being sent to South Africa’s Joburg Squash Foundation.
According to the Professional Squash Association Foundation, Callum’s mother, Linsey Brown, shared that her son was heartbroken to see his peers playing squash in poor facilities with no electricity and the realisation that they probably couldn’t compete at tournaments due to lack of resources and funding.
“He wanted to help in a practical way and the clothing was what he chose. Many kids have clothing sponsorships and also receive tournament t-shirts regularly and, because they are continually growing, a lot of the kit is grown out of while still in very good condition.”
“Callum just loves squash and wants other people to love squash too, so helping kids, like him, to play was what he wanted.”
The Joburg Squash Foundation, which supports disadvantaged youth in Johannesburg, was overwhelmed by the generosity of the Scottish squash community.
Touched by Callum’s efforts and contributions, the Chairman of Joburg Squash, Philip Maxton, expressed how receiving the donation and handing it over to the youth at Gazankulu left him emotional.
“The Scottish junior squash community should be very proud of what they have done,” he said.
Sources: Professional Squash Association Foundation,
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