Squash Takes Centre Court as MatchPoint 2026 Open Comes to Wakefield

Get your rackets ready, because something big is happening in the world of Yorkshire squash. The brilliant Wakefield Squash Club is getting set to host the very first, the inaugural, MatchPoint Wakefield Open. On Saturday, 28th February, the courts will be buzzing with energy, bringing together seasoned athletes, exciting rising talent, and the whole local squash community for a massive day of competition. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the love of the game, a bit of friendly rivalry, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you're a player or just fancy watching some fast-paced action, this is one for the calendar. This new tournament is a significant milestone for the club and for the sport in this part of England.

So, what’s all the racket about?

This isn't your average, stuffy tournament. The MatchPoint Wakefield Open has been designed from the ground up to be open, competitive, and most importantly, a really good time. It’s a one-day event, so you get all the excitement packed into a single Saturday. It’s open to players of all levels, ages, and genders, which is fantastic. You could be a seasoned club player or someone who's just getting serious about their game.

And the best bit? Everyone who enters is guaranteed to play at least three matches. There's nothing worse than turning up for a competition, losing your first game, and having to go home. Here, you get plenty of court time. The matches are played in a best-of-three format, which keeps things snappy and exciting. Think of it like a quickfire round – you’ve got to be on your game from the first serve. To make sure the competition is fair, players are grouped into five different graded categories based on their SquashLevels rankings. This is a clever system that puts you up against people of a similar ability, from total beginners (a ranking of 0) to squash superstars (5,000+). This means every match has that thrilling, could-go-either-way feeling. The day of squash action will build up to the finals in the afternoon, promising a brilliant atmosphere right until the last point is won. The whole day is geared towards pure enjoyment and channelling that competitive spirit.

More than just a game

While the main event is the squash, the MatchPoint Wakefield Open is about something bigger. It’s a huge part of a mission to build and strengthen the squash community. The MatchPoint tour was founded by Cai Younger with a clear goal: create more opportunities for people to play competitive squash and bring players together. This event in Wakefield is a huge milestone. It’s the fifth MatchPoint tour event to be held in Yorkshire, but the very first one at the Wakefield Squash Club. It also makes the club the 17th in England to host one of these popular one-day tournaments.

It’s about creating a vibe where people can connect. Whether you’re trying to win the inaugural title or just want a great day on the courts, the focus is on community and enjoyment. The club has an on-site bar, so you can grab a drink, chat about the matches, and cheer on the players. It’s a social event as much as a sporting one. Imagine watching some intense action on the glass-back courts, then dissecting the best shots with friends afterwards. That’s what building a sports community is all about. The company behind the tour has created a fantastic format that clubs across the country are keen to be a part of. The director of the MatchPoint tour clearly understands that a great tournament is about more than just what happens on the courts; it's about the entire experience.

A top-class facility for a great competition

To host a great event, you need a great venue, and Wakefield Squash Club is exactly that. The club is putting all four of its courts into action for the tournament. Three of these are modern glass-back courts, which are brilliant for spectators. They offer amazing views, so you won’t miss a single drop shot or lightning-fast return. It’s a first-class facility that’s part of the wider Wakefield Sports & Social Club.

The whole place is designed to be welcoming. It’s a space where people can meet up, play the sport they love, and connect with others. The club provides the perfect backdrop for a day filled with competitive spirit. With excellent courts for the athletes and a great viewing gallery and bar for attendees, it’s set up to be a perfect day for everyone involved. This event is a fantastic advert for sport in the region, a story that platforms like yorkshire.com are always eager to share.

How to get involved in the action

Fancy giving it a go? Getting your entry in is super simple. The whole process is managed through the MatchPoint App, which you can download for free on either Android or iOS devices. It’s a straightforward way to get registered for the competition.

The entry fee is £30, and for that, you get your guaranteed three matches and an exclusive event t-shirt, so you’ll have a souvenir from the day. It’s a great package for a full day of top-quality squash. Given the focus on fun and fair competition, it's a brilliant opportunity for any squash player looking to test their skills and meet new people.

What the chairman says

The excitement at the club is obvious, and the Club Chairman, Paul Ramsdale, is looking forward to the inaugural event. He said:

“We’re delighted to be hosting the MatchPoint Wakefield Open for the first time at Wakefield Squash Club. Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything the sport has to offer, while welcoming both new and familiar faces from across the region to compete in a friendly and inclusive environment.

MatchPoint has built a great reputation for delivering well-run tournaments, and we’re proud to be part of that journey. This event perfectly reflects what our club stands for - competitive squash, a strong sense of community, and creating an environment where players of all levels and ages can enjoy the sport. We’re confident it will be a brilliant day both on and off the court, and the beginning of an exciting new tournament tradition at Wakefield Squash Club.

Address: Sports Club, Eastmoor Rd, Wakefield WF1 3RR, United Kingdom