Alyssa Mullings a star

ALYSSA Mullings is the reigning national senior squash champion at the tender age of 15. She became one of the youngest to win the title last year and is a star in the making.

She also represented Jamaica in badminton, but squash is her first choice.

"Squash is definitely the sport I would love to go professional in if given the opportunity," Mullings told The Gleaner.

In preparation for the professional circuit, Alicia watches a lot of international squash.

"I watch a lot of international squash alongside my father (Steve) and brother (David)," she noted. "It is amazing to see men and women representing their countries and also at the pro level."

Mullings has so far won four Caribbean titles - two at the Under-13 level and two at the Under-15 level. In addition to her senior title, she is also the regional junior champion.

"It is a proud feeling to be a senior champion at such a young age. I feel good for my family and friends. It is a tremendous feeling," Mullings explained.

The Bishop Gibson High fifth-form student balances squash and academics well. She is taking subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, English language, English literature, Spanish and electronic document preparation management in the CSEC in May.

Father used squash for exercise

The teen was introduced to the sport by her father, who practiced squash as a means of exercise.

"My father started playing squash as an exercise and carried my older brother David along. I used to cry and wondered if it was because I was a girl," she reflected.

"After that I was allowed to go along and I have fallen in love with the sport.

"Training with my brother and father helps my game as they are stronger than the female players," she added.

Mullings is already looking forward to the Caribbean Area Squash Association Junior and Senior Championship later this year.

"My aim is to win the Under-17 title and also do better in the senior championship," Mullings informed.

In badminton, she represented Jamaica in the Pan American Championships two years ago. Nowadays, Mullings only participates in badminton at the school level.

"I use badminton to cross train for squash. I no longer represent Jamaica in badminton as squash is my favourite sport," Mullings disclosed.

She thanked her father and David Harrison, who have been coaching her and also mother, Karen.

The teenager says humility, determination and persistence have been key to her successes so far.

"We support her in squash, but ensure that she balances it with her education. I help her with school work after training. My husband is her coach and biggest fan," said her mom, Karen Mullings.