World squash stars arrive at University of Hull as Allam British Open gets underway

Stars of world squash will be at the University of Hull as the iconic Allam British Open begins today (Monday, May 20).

The tournament – dubbed the Wimbledon of squash - will be held entirely at the University for the first time.

The start of the tournament coincides with the University honouring Dr Assem Allam by naming its new sports buildings after him.

Dr Allam, a long-time supporter of the University of Hull, has made a significant donation towards the new sports facilities, as well as towards the University’s Talented Athlete Programme, which supports student athletes to combine academic and sporting excellence during their time at University.

The sports centre will be renamed the Allam Sport Centre in recognition of his continued support.

Dr Assem Allam said: “I am proud that the University is now able to attract international competitions with its new world-class facilities.  Through sport, the University is engaging a huge community – locally, nationally and internationally.  It brings together school pupils and local clubs, student athletes, as well as overseas competitors, their families and trainers.”

The talented athlete programme – which includes nine elite squash players – provides sports scholarships to students who compete to an elite level in their chosen sport. The programme offers a range of support including financial, gym membership, strength and conditioning training, rehabilitation, yoga, flexibility and mindfulness, personal development mentoring and nutrition advice.

Professor Susan Lea, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hull, said: “Dr Assem Allam has been a generous benefactor of the University of Hull for many years and we remain extremely grateful for his continued support.

“His contributions across the University have allowed us to significantly enhance our student experience in a range of fields, most notably in sport and health.

“We are delighted Dr Allam has brought this iconic tournament to the University. The Allam British Open will allow people around the world to see a major international tournament at the University of Hull, showcasing our outstanding facilities and campus and we hope it will be the first of many international tournaments hosted here at the University.”

The University of Hull has invested significantly in enhancing its sports facilities, as part of a £300m campus improvement programme.

In the past six years, the University has played host to qualifying and first-round matches in the Allam British Open.

Following the significant investment in facilities, including creating six world class glass-back courts – to be named the Assem Allam Squash Courts - the University has stepped up its support for the Allam British Open by hosting the entire tournament.

It is hoped the tournament will be the first of many major international competitions to be brought to the University of Hull.

Alongside the stars on-court, our students will also a leading role in the activities throughout the tournament, with members of our Talented Athlete Programme volunteering, Sports Rehabilitation students providing courts side support and student John Cakebread being a compère for the matches alongside industry professionals.