National Volunteers Week: Colin Fry

At Squash Australia, we recognise that our sport simply cannot exist without the dedication of volunteers.  This week is National Volunteers Week (18-24 May), Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.

Colin Fry, an esteemed member of the Ipswich PCYC Squash Club, transitioned to the sport at 21 years old after playing football for several years.

Despite undergoing a hip replacement and managing various injuries, his passion for the game remains unmatched as he continues to compete on the court.

Fry’s journey into squash volunteering began at one of the sport's most esteemed global fixtures: the 2018 Commonwealth Games, hosted in his home state of Queensland.

“I had various roles including arranging athletes to the pre-match areas, getting players to match courts, court services & some supervision of other volunteers,” he said.

Since 2024, Fry has played an active role in the Squash Australian Open, held annually in Brisbane. Being surrounded by likeminded and passionate volunteers who love what they do makes the Squash Australian Open so rewarding to Fry.

“From driving players from their hotel to practice courts, to corporate liaison with guests, ticketing access, to court services, I have experienced a wide range of roles,” he said.

When asked about his favourite volunteering roles, at local events or at his local club, it was hard to put a finger on one specific role.

“I am willing to help out anywhere - Escorting, arranging with entry and seating for the guests,” he said.

His motivation to volunteer within the community stems from several factors, including the opportunity to meet legends of the game and his deep appreciation for the rich history of squash in Australia.

“The game needs as much support as we can give it to bring us back to where we once were.”

Fry's advice to anyone who would like to get involved in the squash community through volunteering is to simply get involved.

“Get involved - there are plenty of opportunities,” he said. “ I look forward to continuing my volunteer roles with squash.”