Tara Murray
Melton’s Tina Ma has had a year that she could never have imagined for in the squash world.
A rising star of the sport, Ma claimed not one by two national titles in the space of a few months.
She won both the open and closed under-13 junior national titles, along with a number of other state titles along the way in the last 12 months.
The difference between the two national titles, one was against only Australian competitors, while the other is open to athletes from across the world.
Ma said she was really surprised with her results. She’s also had success in team events.
“I was really happy with my results and didn’t know what to really expect, but it was a pleasant surprise,” she said.
Ma said she knew that she had been training hard, but with so many other good athletes wasn’t sure what to expect entering both events.
She said her training had definitely paid off.
“It’s just a great feeling to know that all the hard work that I have put into my training put me in the spot where I am today,” she said.
“All these state titles I’ve achieved were all because of the help I’ve gotten from the Squash Logic Melton team, and my main coaches Richard Cagliarini and Anthony Hill, I couldn’t get them without their guidance and training.
“Also I must say thanks to Melton City Council. I received a resident achievement grant before I went to Perth.”
Ma has been playing squash since she was five and has been addicted ever since.
“I still remember that one day when my friend’s mum introduced me to this sport, and since then I couldn’t stop playing it,” she said.
“I love all the shots in it. It’s really surprising to see what shots you can hit if you play smart.
“This sport gives me more confidence and helps me make many new friends.”
Ma said her aim is to make the next Commonwealth Games in four years time and after that she’s hoping to play at the 2032 Olympics at Brisbane if the sport is selected.
Squash Logic Melton coach Richard Cagliarini previously said Tina had worked to an intense training plan in the lead up to the competition and the hard work all paid off.
“She’s got the best attitude and such drive, it’s just incredible,” he said.
