Team England name Louise Pickford as team leader for squash at Birmingham 2022

England Squash Performance Operations Manager Louise Pickford has today been announced as Team England’s team leader for squash at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Birmingham 2022 will be Louise’s third consecutive Commonwealth Games having been squash team leader in Glasgow 2014 and part of the preparation camp team in Brisbane for the 2018 Games.

Louise is relishing the chance to lead another home games following Team England’s successful stint at the Gold Coast 2018 where the team took home one gold, two silver and one bronze medal.

She said:

“It’s a huge honour to be Team Leader for England Squash at the Commonwealth Games. Some of my proudest moments in squash have happened during previous games and it’s an absolute privilege to be afforded the opportunity to support our players in realising their Commonwealth ambitions.

“Our preparations have begun and we’re very much looking forward to Birmingham 2022 and competing on home soil."

Louise joined England Squash in 2003 and is responsible for all operations and logistics of the performance department including managing all Team England representation throughout the talent pathway.

Team England have a strong home track record at the Commonwealth Games, topping the squash medal table at Glasgow 2014 with nine medals (one gold, five silver and three bronze).

Mark England, Team England Chef de Mission was impressed with the candidates nominated for their sports. He said:

“Team Leaders play a pivotal role in the preparation of athletes and support staff in the lead up to and during the Commonwealth Games. It’s really encouraging that we have such a high-quality group as we prepare our sports for the Games in Birmingham.

“I’m confident they’ll ensure every athlete has everything they need to showcase their talent and achieve performance success on the home stage for Team England in less than two years’ time.”