Questionnaire: Cassie Campion

Do you feel your preparation has been going well for this week's World Women's Open in Melbourne?

I feel my preparation is going well. I have just played a tournament in Qatar and got a few matches under my belt.

Have you had any problems from your back during your preparation for Melbourne?

So far my back has been fine during my preparation. Obviously, I have to do lots of stretching and have regular massage but so far I have been pain free.

Does your back still give you physical and mental problems?

The only problems my back gives me is it occasionally gets stiff if I've been playing a succession of hard matches or have had hard training sessions. I have to listen to my body and make sure that I look after it and rest it when needed.

You've gone from world No 1 to No 11 in the space of a year. Is this due to your injury or because you're not playing your best squash?

The reason I've dropped from No1 to No 11 is totally down to having back surgery. I had five months out of the game and I am still getting match fitness back after having all the time out. Each match I play is another match in the bank and I am confident of working my way back to the top.

Do you feel you can get back to the world No 1 position?

I do feel I can get back to the top. It might take a bit of time, but I will be working very hard to get there.

Do you think that you can win Melbourne? Who are the main rivals?

I have to go to Melbourne believing I can win. Obviously it will be very tough but I will be trying my best. The main rivals I would say are the top three ranked players: Sarah Fitz-Gerald, Leilani Joyce and Carol Owens. They are the players I would have to beat to win.

What is it like having your husband as a coach?

My husband helps me with my squash along with my coach David Pearson. They both give me help which is great for me and it's also great that they're both here in Melbourne.

How old were you when you first played?

I started playing when I was nine. My parents took my brother and I up to North Walsham Squash Club in Norfolk (my home town). I had a game and the rest is history.

Is it possible to earn a good living out of squash?

I earn a good living, but nothing compared to sports like football, tennis, etc. You have to be one of the top players to earn a decent living. It's tough for the young players coming on to the circuit, but it's the same for all of us.

Interview by Jonathan Wheeler

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