Our Story
The North West Counties Squash League is Europe's largest and oldest organised squash competition. Since the late 1950s, we've been bringing players together across Lancashire, Cheshire, and Merseyside—creating a thriving community built on competitive spirit, camaraderie, and a shared love of the game.
Today, approximately 3,500 players compete each season across 22 divisions and 68 member clubs, from the National Squash Centre in Manchester to local leisure centres and private clubs throughout the region.
Our Mission
To lead the development, growth, and sustainability of a world-class competitive, inclusive, and vibrant league structure for the North West.
We're guided by six core values:
Development – Creating a league structure that meets the needs of players today and tomorrow.
Growth – Investing league revenue back into squash across the North West through grant schemes.
Sustainability – Planning for long-term success through sound financial management and support.
Competition – Providing environments for players of all levels to test their skills against local teams.
Inclusivity – Offering equal opportunities for all and working to break down barriers.
Vibrancy – Building a community and culture that everyone wants to be part of.
Our History
The NWCSL was established approximately 67 years ago, making it the oldest organised squash league in the world. Born during the golden era of British squash, the league emerged from the vibrant club culture developing across three North West counties.
The Early Years (1950s–1970s)
The league's founding coincided with squash's rapid expansion across Britain. From modest beginnings, the competition grew steadily as clubs throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and Merseyside joined forces. By the 1970s—during what many call the "heydays" of squash—clubs were operating at maximum capacity, with waiting lists for membership a common sight.
Growth and Expansion (1980s–2000s)
The squash boom of the 1970s and 80s fuelled remarkable growth. New clubs joined year after year, and established clubs expanded their teams—some fielding as many as 11 squads in the league. The pyramid structure of five divisions, subdivided into regional sections, allowed clubs of all sizes to find their level and compete meaningfully.
The Modern Era (2000s–Present)
While squash participation declined nationally from its peak, the NWCSL has continued to thrive. Our Division 1 attracts world-class talent, with current and former world-ranked players including Joel Makin, Declan James, Patrick Rooney, and George Parker, as well as legends like three-time World Champion Nick Matthew and Mohamed El Shorbagy.
In 2023, we launched our new website and modernised league systems. The annual Grand Final, held at the National Squash Centre during the PSA Manchester Open, provides a fitting showcase for the season's best.
League Structure
Division 1 plays on Tuesday evenings and features the highest level of competition, regularly attracting professional players.
Divisions 2–5 play on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm, with teams organised into regional sections across the North West.
The Winter League runs from September to April, while the Summer League (May–July) offers a more relaxed, mixed-ability format across Manchester, South Manchester, and North and Mid Cheshire.
Our geographic footprint spans from Lancaster in the north to Wrexham in North Wales, covering Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, Blackpool, Chester, the Wirral, and communities throughout the region.
