Hundreds of the world’s best squash athletes have begun descending on Tauranga for an action-packed few weeks of squash.

The New Zealand Festival of Squash will offer more than 500 matches played across three major tournaments.

The festival hosts the NZ Squash Open from December 5-10, the Oceania Junior Championships December 5-7 and the WSF Men’s World Teams Championships December 11-17.

More than 400 athletes from30 nations will compete – including big-name international athletes, with Kiwi stars– world number four Kiwi Paul Coll and world number eight fellow Kiwi Joelle King – in the mix.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back to NZ and playing in front of a home crowd,” says Paul.

“There will be a really high level of aggressive squash on display.

"It’s always a really fun tournament and it’s great to watch – so I’d encourage everyone to get involved and support us.”

The Oceania Junior Championships is on first with 141 athletes competing at the Devoy Squash & Fitness centre, and Mount Maunganui Squash Club.

World number eight Kiwi Joelle King will also play in the festival. Photo: supplied.

The draw features more than 50 international players, including 90 Kiwis with many BOP athletes, who’ll play in front of a home crowd.

The New Zealand Open kicks off the elite competition at Mercury Baypark arena and boasts a world class field of 24 men and 24 women, including seven athletes with top 10 world rankings.

The WSF Men’s World Team Championship then follows at the same venue.

Commonwealth Games Singles & Mixed Doubles champion Paul Coll headlines the NZ team, joined by brothers Temwa and Lwamba Chileshe, and young Auckland bolter Elijah Thomas.

Tournament director Wayne Werder says they’re expecting fantastic competition as athletes begin working towards squash’s Olympic debut.

“Squash has just been announced as an Olympic sport for the LA 2028 Games.

“The athletes competing here are the best in the world and a lot of up-and-comers will be in action so there will be quite a few future Olympians showcasing their talents.”

With a huge field of athletes and support staff, plus fans, Wayne says the event will provide a fantastic pre- a Christmas boost for the BOP economy.

“Last year’s edition of the NZ Squash Open contributed more than 4000 visitor nights and gross benefit of $1.4-million to the local economy.

“It really is a world class event and there’s a great programme running around the sport so there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

"We’re encouraging the local community to really get behind the sport and our athletes by purchasing some tickets and enjoying the show.”

Tickets for the 2023 Festival of Squash are on sale with more information available at: www.festivalofsquash.co.nz