Kathy Conquergood takes journey to the World Masters stage

Squash has been a lifelong love for Kathy Conquergood, with both parents playing squash and tennis, she was introduced to the sport from a young age, even having the ends of her racquets sawn off by her dad so they would fit. 

“I remember my Dad saying to me ‘hit it where they ain’t’, and once I worked out that I could win points like that, I was hooked,” she said.

Now, decades later, Kathy is preparing to take on one of the biggest events of her squash journey when she competes at the 2026 World Squash Masters Championships in Perth from 30 August to 6 September.

Based at Campbelltown Squash Club and training at South Adelaide Squash Club, Kathy will make the trip from Adelaide to Perth to join players from around the world for the week-long celebration of Masters squash.

While Perth will mark Kathy’s first World Squash Masters Championship, she is no stranger to international competition. She competed at the 2005 World Masters Games in Edmonton and has represented both South Australia and Alberta across junior, Open and Masters competitions, building lasting friendships and memories along the way.

Her experiences have also included competing in Niagara and a memorable doubles CanAm event in Philadelphia, while former world champion Vicky Cardwell has provided coaching and encouragement at her club.

“I also love that I’ve had Vicky Cardwell do some coaching at my club sometimes, it’s amazing to have a world champion coach and give tips and encouragement,” she said.

For Kathy, it is the challenge and dynamic nature of squash that continues to bring her back to the court, and she is now looking forward to putting that to the test against an international field in Perth.

“I love how dynamic squash is, I love to work hard on the court and I love the challenge…most of the time,” she said. 

“Its quite exciting to be competing in a World Masters Squash Champs and I’m excited about seeing my old Canadian friends who will be there for it, and I’m keen to see the best players in the world in Perth!

“I’m excited to be competing in such a huge and international event, and I am hoping that I will be able to play my best, and to be in one piece at the end of it!”

With just one week to go, Kathy is ready to add another chapter to her lifelong squash journey and enjoy the experience of competing alongside players and friends from around the world on home soil.

The 2026 World Squash Masters Championships will be held in Perth from 30 August to 6 September, bringing together Masters players from across Australia and around the world for a week of competition, community and celebration of the sport.