Thanks to Llanyrafon Primary School pupils Imogen Hindley, Isobel Pryce and Harper Hopkins Smith for this cracking interview.
They sat down with their classmate Elsie Griffiths, ten, to quiz her about her playing squash.
Elsie recently became the second-best player (in her age group) in Great Britain for quite a unique sport- squash. In early November, she competed in the British Championships and after several gruelling games, she got to the final.
Q. What inspired you to take up playing squash?
A. Well, my dad and older sister used to play and I wanted to try it as well. I’ve been really enjoying it ever since!
Q. When did you decide it was something you wanted to do?
A. I was about six when I really built up my love for the game, and I realised it wasn’t just a club that I participate in weekly, I wanted to play competitively.
Q. Do you ever lose confidence in yourself pre-game?
A. Not really, when I have big games maybe I doubt myself a bit, but even then I think positive about my chances of winning. I will cheer for whoever wins.
Q. Do you have any influences when you train?
A. My sister is my main inspiration, she coaches me so I see her play often. I also get influenced by a famous Welsh player, Tenzi Evans. She is really great at playing and I aspire to be like her in the future.
Q. Do you have any main tactics?
A. Yes, when I serve I try to make it powerful, and I try to hit away from the player to make them run more to the ball and risk losing it.
Q. How old were you when you started playing competitively?
A. I was around seven when I started playing squash competitively, and I have grown massively since and I will keep learning from everyone I meet.
Q. How would you describe your emotions before you play?
A. I can get worried and excited pre-match.
Q. Do you have any memories from your incredible journey?
A. My main memories from my squash journey so far is becoming the best player in Wales for my age group and becoming second in Great Britain.
Imogen, Isobel and Harper said: “Overall, Elsie has achieved many things, all incredible, and we are all so proud to have her here in Cwmbran with us. We hope you have learnt something from her, whether it’s perseverance or commitment.”