New Competitions Coordinator Philip Lyons joins Scottish squash through the Graduate Careers Advantage Programme

Dublin born Philip Lyons has joined the Scottish Squash team as the new Competitions Coordinator, supporting Kevin Moran and the wider team in organising and delivering a domestic calendar of competitions and events.

Philip came to Scottish Squash through the Graduate Careers Advantage Scotland Programme on a 6-month internship. The programme, funded by the Scottish Government, is a new initiative to help recent, eligible graduates living in Scotland, find rewarding employment.

As Competitions Coordinator, Philip will be responsible for helping plan and coordinate platinum competitions throughout the year, assisting with the running of events, as well as supporting the media and communications work.

Philip said: “I have had a lifelong interest in sport as well as the planning and coordination of major events, so when I saw this role through Graduate Careers Advantage Scotland, it stood out as an ideal opportunity. I previously worked in retail management, so this is a change of direction for me. Having worked and lived in the USA and Australia, I’ve built up a range of transferable skills over the years that I believe will be useful for this role alongside my third-level education.

I’m looking forward to developing the competitions calendar for next season and supporting the team on a range of events, including the Love Squash campaign during the Commonwealth Games and a women’s only event we have been planning. I’m also passionate about fluid communications and hope to build strong relations within the sports industry. I see myself proactively using this internship to learn about different areas of event and sport management as a springboard for a career in this sector.”

Garry McKay, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Squash said: “It’s great to welcome Philip to the team from the Graduate Careers Advantage Programme – we are always looking to help further the careers of young people interested in sport management, and we recognise the value Philip brings to the team. He is driven, enthusiastic with a great sense of humour and brings a transferable skill set well suited to the role. We all look forward to working with Philip as we build an inspiring events calendar for the years ahead.”