The worlds of sport and technology have come together to launch the inaugural OHANA-SRAM Squash League which will kick off in January 2017. The Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia [SRAM] has partnered with OHANA Communications, a member of OMESTI Group, to provide a new lease of life for the League.

The original idea was first mooted by SRAM Director of Coaching Mej (R) S. Maniam. A former national squash champion himself, he recalls the League being very popular during his playing days but which had sadly lapsed since 10 years ago. “I grew up playing in the League. It not only helps you to improve your game but it also enables you to make many friends. It is vital to revive the League as it creates greater awareness amongst the public,” said Maniam, adding that it will also increase the base of people playing squash socially.

Maniam also highlighted that while SRAM mainly focused on elite players, there was a need to broaden the base and provide a platform for identifying upcoming talent. This prompted him to approach his former prodigy and National Junior Champion Gerard Monteiro, now Executive Director of OMESTI Berhad. Monteiro represented the country in the late 1980s to early 1990s.

“OHANA means family and we are all about connecting people and communities,” said Monteiro. The discipline and commitment I learned during my playing days have continued to serve me well throughout my business career. With this initiative, we are delighted to be able to give back to the sport and play a part in helping to bring back the League.”

The 2017 OHANA-SRAM League takes the theme “Squash For Life” and will kick off in January next year at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil. It will be held over a period of four to six months depending on the number of entries and will be divided into various divisions. “We are looking at signing up 50-70 teams from around the Klang Valley. They can be from private clubs, universities, colleges and schools. We are not gender nor age biased for this competition,” said Maniam. “We are open to all.” Each division will be divided into 8 teams with each allowed to register six players including one National player. Entry fee per team is RM300. Closing date for registration is December 15th 2016.

OHANA provides integrated communications solutions including Fibre Broadband, Voice, Web Presence and Security, specifically tailored to SMEs, as well as enterprise-scale Metro E and Network Services. www.ohana.com.my

The SQUASH RACQUETS ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA or SRAM is the governing body for the game of Squash in Malaysia. Founded in 1972, SRAM has a continuous commitment to growing the game in the country. SRAM is active in running tournaments at junior, university, senior and professional levels that attract top international players to Malaysia. The National Squads are trained by SRAM coaches who are some of the best in the world. SRAM also continues to certify coaches and referees to the standards of the World Squash Federation. www.malaysia-squash.org