Scottish Squash announces new Non-Executive Director

Scottish Squash Limited (SSL) is delighted to welcome Ali Bell as a Non-Executive Director, with a specific focus on the Performance Pathway.

The former Scotland hockey international, who represented her country over 130 times, brings a wealth of experience from working across the sporting sector.

Ali is currently Pathway Development Manager at Scottish Golf, having previously worked with sportscotland and in sports development at Abertay University and the University of Stirling – where she completed a PhD in Sports Coaching.

Speaking after her appointment Ali said: “I’m really keen to give back to sport, and working in performance and pathways, this felt like a really exciting opportunity to develop myself, but also use my knowledge and experience to drive improvement as well.

“With my background working in golf, I feel like there are lots of similar challenges and opportunities between the sports, so I hope that I’ll be able to bring lots to squash and also take learning back to my own role.”

The appointment comes at an exciting time for the sport, as preparations continue for the Commonwealth Games in 2026 and for the Olympics in 2028 in Los Angeles

As a former Commonwealth Games athlete who represented Great Britain five times, Ali believes that the sport’s inclusion in the Olympics will provide a new target for the country’s top players.

She said: “The Olympics adds an extra tier to the pathway for performance players, with the potential to play for Great Britain.

“I know as a Scottish athlete who was part of a Great British squad that it’s a great thing to be involved with, but I also know about some of the challenges that athletes might face in trying to compete for the British squad.

“It’s really exciting for the sport and the athletes, and hopefully I can help and influence in that area through my knowledge and experience.”

SSL is currently working to deliver its 2023-27 strategic plan “Together for Squash in Scotland”, which sets out a vision for a collaborative sport where stakeholders work together to ensure squash in Scotland continues to develop and thrive.

The Performance Pathway is a key strategic pillar within that plan, and in her role of Non-Executive Director Ali will support its delivery.

Paul Macari, SSL President said: “Ali brings a wealth of knowledge to the board, with over a decade of experience working in the sports sector, and a background as an international athlete.

“She will bring a fresh perspective to the board which will support our continued efforts to help Scotland’s top squash players fulfil their potential.

“With the Commonwealth Games in 2026 and Olympic Games in 2028, this is an exciting time for squash in Scotland, and we are delighted to be welcoming Ali to the team during a period of great opportunity for the sport.”

Susie Lind has stepped off the board from her position as Director (East Nominee) and has been replaced by Ian Ross, well-known for his Masters achievements.

Scottish Squash would like to place on record our thanks to Susie for her time on the board.