VANDERBIJLPARK – Former and current Vaal squash players recently gathered at The Horse and River for the 10th Vaal Masters Breakfast.

The breakfast marks 10 years since Arthur Lesar brought together current and former Masters players for regular social squash gatherings.

The group, originally known as the Squash Ballies and Tannies, initially met three or four times a year at the Mittal Squash Centre before the gatherings developed into the annual breakfast.

Although some members no longer play squash, the breakfasts continue to bring the players together to talk about the sport and share memories of their playing days.

Special mention was made of Ian Cass, known as “Numero Ono”, and Harold Dickerson, known as “Tricky Dicky”, who were recognised as two of the group’s “court legends.”

Both players have a long history in Vaal squash and represented the Vaal in provincial competition. Cass was named in Vaal representative teams from the late 1970s into the 1980s, while Dickerson also represented the Vaal during that period.

Vaal Triangle Squash became an independent union in 1976 after previously forming part of Transvaal (Gauteng). Masters squash tournaments for players over 45 were established during the 1980s, with Vaal players competing against larger provincial unions.

Several members of the group have also served in administrative roles in Vaal Triangle Squash and their clubs, including as chairpersons, secretaries, treasurers and committee members.

The group thanked the Masters players who continue to attend the breakfasts, The Horse and River for hosting the gatherings, and Arthur Lesar for bringing the group together and keeping it going over the past decade.