DWAYNE McIntosh is one of Manchester's brightest sporting hopes in a game he took up just three years ago.

The 13-year-old from Moss Side was introduced to squash by a school project and is now in the top ten players in the country.

Manchester has become a global centre of excellence in the racquet sport, and Dwayne is one of thousands of young people to benefit.

The sports-mad Trinity C of E High School pupil was looking for a new hobby when he was invited to squash practice at Moss Side Leisure Centre.

Within a few sets he was hooked, and in the time since he has become one of Manchester Squash Academy's hottest talents. He has played in the Welsh Open and a host of UK cities, and represented the region in the Inter Area Squash Championships.

His younger brothers, Nathan, 10, and Jordan, 8, have been inspired to follow in his footsteps.

Dwayne, a keen basketball player, who also plays soccer for Fletcher Moss, Fallowfield Town and Rising Stars, said: "I love the speed of squash, it keeps me fit. I also get to travel the country playing, which I enjoy. I'm glad my brothers are taking it up and hope they do well too."

'Proud'

Dwayne's mum, Amanda, said: "I'm so proud of him - he always gives 100 per cent. He takes it to heart when he loses but I always tell him you have to lose sometimes to learn."

Dwayne has been coached under the Manchester Squash Development Programme, which introduces 8,000 youngsters a year to the sport.

It is the biggest scheme of its kind and links school sessions with after-school practice, and benefits from expert coaching and links to elite academies.

Each year the National Squash Championships - the biggest home event - comes to Sportscity in Manchester and encourages more youngsters to pick up a racquet.

The é3.5m National Squash Centre at Sportscity boasts the world's only glass-walled show court, which floats on air like a hovercraft and can be moved for major tournaments, and six other courts, which can be converted for singles or doubles play at the touch of a button.

Nick Taylor, head coach said: "Dwayne was ranked ninth in the country in the under-13 category and by keeping at it will do well in his new, under-14 category.

"Technically he's sound and he's a good athlete with great hand-eye co-ordination. Squash is a difficult sport but with dedication there's no reason why he couldn't be a leading Manchester player and coach when he's older."

* The National Squash Championships come to Manchester for a week from February 11.

* There are regular coaching sessions across Manchester. Call Taro Nabetani on 0161 220 3810.

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