Ten players travelled to Jersey from 8–11 October to compete in the 2026 ARC Jersey Squash Festival, with five representing Team Atla in Division 4 and five playing for Team Buchanan & Pitts in Division 5.
The festival is a longstanding fixture in the Isle of Man squash calendar, with Manx players making the trip across the Irish Sea for many years. Held on the beautiful island of Jersey, the event attracts more than 200 players and offers a fantastic combination of competitive squash, sporting camaraderie and a great social atmosphere. With next year marking the festival’s 50th anniversary, it remains a special event for squash players of all levels.
The standard of squash across the divisions is consistently high, with players travelling from across the UK and beyond to compete. Division 1 features semi-professional players and some of the top county-level talent, providing a fantastic spectacle of fast-paced, high-quality squash for competitors and spectators alike.
Team Atla Crowned Division 4 Champions
Team Atla enjoyed an excellent tournament, winning Division 4 after a 5–1 victory over Maidstone Misfits in the group stage. A 4–2 defeat to Jersey in their other group match saw them progress to the semi-final, where they beat GB VETS to set up a rematch against Jersey in the final.
Having already faced Jersey in the group stages, Team Atla produced an impressive performance when it mattered most, securing a 5–1 victory in the final to claim the Division 4 title.
Two standout performances came from Ben Leith and Harvey Douglas, who both defeated higher-ranked opponents in closely contested five-game matches, each winning 3–2. Their determination and composure under pressure helped Team Atla secure the championship and capped off a successful weekend for the squad.
Team Buchanan & Pitts Compete in Division 5
Team Buchanan & Pitts also represented the Isle of Man in Division 5, with Harrison Callow and Ste Pitts making their debuts at the festival.
Although the team didn’t progress to the finals, they competed well throughout the tournament, taking their opponents to several closely fought matches. The experience provided valuable competitive opportunities for the whole squad, particularly the newcomers, who enjoyed the chance to test themselves against unfamiliar opposition in a strong field.
A Fantastic Weekend for Manx Squash
The Jersey festival is about much more than the results. The opportunity to compete against players from different clubs, experience the high standard of squash on display and catch up with familiar faces makes it a popular annual trip for the Isle of Man contingent.
With ten players making the journey this year, the island was once again well represented at one of the calendar’s most established squash events.
Congratulations to Team Atla on their Division 4 title, and well done to Team Buchanan & Pitts for their efforts throughout the weekend. Thanks also go to the organisers for delivering another excellent festival in such a beautiful setting.
With the 50th anniversary approaching in 2027, the event looks set to remain a highlight of the squash calendar for years to come.
A successful weekend for Isle of Man squash, with silverware coming home from Jersey!