A Thrilling Tournament Showcasing the Island’s Best

The Isle of Man National Squash Championship 2025 delivered three nights of intense, high-energy competition, culminating in an unforgettable final.

The championship’s saw 39 entrants from across the island battling for the prestigious title.

Sponsored by Atla International, the event saw fantastic support from local businesses and spectators.

A Match to Remember

Before the highly anticipated final, the Plate Match between Emma Leith and George Rumney delivered a spectacular showdown that many considered one of the most gripping contests of the entire tournament.

Emma, who had already pulled off a stunning upset against higher-ranked Dave Freer in the previous round, found herself up against another formidable opponent in George Rumney.

Despite being relatively new to the sport, George had demonstrated impressive consistency throughout the competition, proving he deserved his place in the plate final.

The match was an electrifying five-game battle that went the full distance, with Emma ultimately securing victory 3-2 (10-12, 11-9, 11-9, 7-11, 13-11) in front of a roaring crowd.

Fiercely Contested Tournament

Every rally was fiercely contested, and the tension in the air was palpable as the match came down to the final point.

The game could not have been closer, with Emma and George pushing each other to the absolute limit.

Emma played with immense tactical intelligence, adjusting her game plan based on her opponents’ strengths.

Her ability to defeat two higher-ranked players in consecutive matches showed just how much she has progressed this year.

George, on the other hand, demonstrated impressive composure for a newer player, using his natural athleticism and powerful play style to push Emma all the way.

His recent improvement suggests he will be a strong contender in future tournaments.

Whiteway Claims the Crown

The grand final saw Thomas Whiteway take on Josh Green in a clash that had the entire squash community on the edge of their seats.

For Thom, this was more than just a match—it was an opportunity to finally claim the National title, having fallen short in recent years. The emotional significance of the occasion was evident, and he rose to it magnificently.

From the first rally, Thom’s tactics were clear – he immediately went on the attack, pushing up the court and volleying relentlessly, keeping the pressure on Josh and test his movement.

Josh however, an ex-professional badminton player, possesses remarkable court coverage, speed, and fitness, made it a challenge for Thom to maintain this intensity.

This aggressive strategy worked in the first game, with Thom taking it 11-7.

Levelled the Match

However, in the second game, Josh adapted brilliantly, using precise drop shots to disrupt Thom’s rhythm.

The momentum shifted, and Josh levelled the match with a 9-11 win, leaving Thom looking concerned as he left the court.

In the third game, Thom regrouped and managed to assert control over the T position, using his superior positioning to dictate play. Josh struggled to find the length required to control the rallies, allowing Thom to take the game 11-6.

The fourth and final game saw Josh fight desperately to regain control, but Thom continued his composed and confident play, sealing the match with an 11-8 victory.

The 3-1 (11-7, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8) win marked an emotional moment for Thom, as he finally claimed the Island’s most prestigious squash title.

Victory for Thom

Thom’s journey to the top has been a long and arduous one. Having spent years in the shadow of Dave Norman, he has worked tirelessly to refine his game, both physically and mentally.

His victory was a testament to his perseverance, and the emotion on his face as he lifted the trophy spoke volumes.

Josh, though disappointed, demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship, congratulating Thom on his hard-fought win.

Given his exceptional physicality and rapid improvement in squash, Josh is expected to be a major force in future championships.