Anika Jackson| Sport

I am Anika Jackson and I am aspiring toward an elite world level of squash like Māori sportswoman Leilani Rorani (nee Joyce/Marsh), former World #1, New Zealand Squash Champion and my mentor. Leilani’s squash achievements have inspired me to follow the same ‘Pathway of Success’ by accomplishing the same milestones and goals that she achieved to become World #1.
I have been playing squash since age seven and what first started as an interesting game to try has now taken on a whole new meaning for me. I enjoy competing at a high-level and love how my capacity to endure has increased and my resilience to cope under pressure has also strengthen.
My life is very busy but my parents help me to stay grounded and focus on the most important things. That is to maintain a positive balance between church, school work, family chores, gym fitness, rest and just being a young person spending time with friends.
Squash is fun and I think everyone should try it just once and come to meet new people and make lasting friendships with individuals and families. In essences, I have become a part of the wider squash community in my district, country and including the squash world.