Brothers to feel at home at Australian Junior Championships

Tasmanian brothers Lachie and Jack Flower have modest goals and big dreams at this year’s Australian Junior Championships.

Their squash journey began with Lachie picking up a racquet at 10 after watching his dad play, while Jack followed his older brother into the sport at nine.

Their ambitions for the Championships are humble. 

“I would love to see myself achieve my goal of winning a match at the AJC,” Lachie said.

“The first match I won in last year’s AJC in Ballarat was awesome. I was so happy with that. I didn't think I would get a win because I knew the level of squash was so high.”

For Jack, who competed at his first AJC in Ballarat last year, the goal might be small, but admirable. 

“I would really like to try and win a set sometime over the tournament,” Jack said.

Rather than travelling interstate to compete, the pair will have the chance to take on some of Australia’s best junior squash players on courts in their home state, with family and friends there to cheer them on.

The brothers have been able to develop their game on the new courts at Deloraine, which Lachie says have become a favourite place to play.

Despite the competitive challenge ahead, Jack remembers his first AJC as much for the experience off court as what happened on it.

“I was so excited. I got to stay with the Tassie team and we had heaps of fun,” he said.

“I didn't think I would score any points, but I actually had some good shots!”

This time, the brothers will have the added benefit of a home crowd.

Lachie is particularly excited about playing on courts where he has trained and competed over the past few years, while having his family there to support him.

“Playing near home means my family can come and watch and support me,” he said.

“Some of my friends are also able to compete this year because we don't have to travel, so that's a great opportunity.”

For Jack, the appeal is the chance to measure himself against players from outside Tasmania.

“I'm really excited to play against people from all over Australia,” he said.

The brothers also see the AJC as another step in their longer-term development.

Lachie wants to continue improving his skills, particularly his body positioning, while Jack is focused on building his confidence and becoming a better player.

And while their immediate goals may be modest, both have ambitions to see where squash can take them.

Lachie wants to reach the highest level possible, while Jack hopes the sport can take him around Australia and potentially further afield to compete in more tournaments.

For now, the focus is on home soil, with the brothers ready to take their place alongside Australia's best young squash players and make the most of an opportunity that doesn't come around often.

An AJC on their home courts, with their family and friends watching, promises to be a tournament to remember.