James Kettle steps up in style

This time however the diminutive 11 year old took on the bigger and more powerful opposition in the under 15 category.

James had a bye in his first round meaning that he went straight into the quarter final against the number 2 seed, William Cheek from Avon. William is ranked at 66 in the country in the under 15 category compared to James 136. Despite the size and strength advantage William had, the match was very tight with James taking the first game 11-9. The second game saw James a little behind before he regrouped with some exquisite shot play to take the second game 11-9 and the match 2-0.

The semi final matched James against Devon county player James Horler. Once again, James was at a disadvantage in terms of size but he completely dominated his older opponent with a stunning display of squash. His shot selection was, at times, breath taking and he took the win 11-6, 11-3.

James now found himself in the boys under 15 final. His opponent, Devon’s Darcy Boyle, is ranked at 58 in the country at under 15 level and at over 6 feet tall, towered above James.

The match itself was tightly fought but the size and experience advantage at this time told. Despite some great rallies, James found himself on the back foot chasing the game from the outset and James lost 2-0.