A team of Sryian refugees will compete at the Hong Kong Junior Open thanks to an agreement between the WSF and Squash Dreamers ©WSF

The World Squash Federation (WSF) and not-for-profit initiative Squash Dreamers have teamed up to help Syrian refugees play the sport. 

Squash Dreamers was created by Jordan-based American Clayton Keir, to teach refugee Syrian girls both how to play squash and speak English. 

Now, in the absence of a Syrian Squash Federation, the WSF has agreed to create a neutral World Squash flag so the refugees can compete at international championships.

In a further effort to help get them on the international circuit, Hong Kong Squash has agreed to sponsor the players so they can take part in the 2018 Hong Kong Junior Open.

They will provide complimentary accommodation for four players and officials at the event, which will take place from July 31 to August 2 at the Hong Kong Squash Centre.  

WSF President Jacques Fontaine, centre right, hopes the scheme will help in squash's quest to become an Olympic sport ©WSF
WSF President Jacques Fontaine, centre right, hopes the scheme will help in squash's quest to become an Olympic sport ©WSF

Squash Dreamers founder Clayton Keir said: "We believe that sports and education can empower young women to rise above difficulties, improve their lives, and make positive impacts in their community.

"Through squash and English, we are offering these girls opportunities to enroll in or be recruited by prestigious academic institutions.

"We are grateful to both the World Squash Federation and Hong Kong Squash that the girls can now participate in a world-class tournament this summer."

WSF President Jacques Fontaine said the refugees' participation in Hong Kong will be an example of the equal opportunities available within squash. 

"As Squash is bidding to be included in the Olympic Programme, the sport is proud to share the same spirit with the International Olympic Committee when it comes to supporting displaced communities and assisting young people in their integration through sport."