Jonathon Power

Image from Tournamnet of Champions (2003) (http://www.jpsquash.com/jpsquash/)

Jonathon Power. Every time I would hear that name I would get excited knowing I was around the world #1 squash player. Ever since I started playing squash at the age of eight I have always looked up to the Canadian hero who has inspired me to strive for greatness as a competitive squash player. Jonathon Power is my hero for he has showed me how to be a better person as well as a better squash player.

Jonathon Tyler Power was born on August 9 1974 in Comox, British Columbia and is now a retired squash professional. At the age of 7 Jonathon began playing squash while his father was the director of athletics in the Canadian military. It was here at this military base that JP learned to play squash which would eventually lead him to turning pro at the age of 16.

Once JP turned professional in 1991, he joined the Professional Squash Association (PSA) sponsored by Dunlop. While touring in PSA, Jonathon went on to win 36 Major PSA Tour Titles and made it to 58 PSA Tour Finals. His career highlights include winning the World Open, the British Open, the Super Series Finals, the PSA Masters, the Tournament of Champions, and the Men's Singles Gold Medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

JP is considered to be one of the greatest shotmakers in the history of the game, having perfected a wide range of drop shots and deception shots. JP seems to always seek the unexpected. As soon as his opponents think they have figured his game plan out, he analyzes the situation like an expert and emerges with a new approach. Power is entertaining, creative, charismatic and a crucial fulcrum point for the increasing interest in squash in Canada.

In January 2006, Power returned to the World No. 1 ranking after four-and-a-half years. "He lost the No. 1 ranking in February 2006 to David Palmer, but regained it again in 1 March 2006. One day later, on 2 March, Power announced his retirement from professional squash" at the age of 31. He was greatly missed by everyone in the squash community as one of the greatest squash legends to ever play the sport. Later in November 2006, Jonathon was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

Jonathon now resides in Toronto with his wife, Sita, and their daughter named "Parker." JP is also a member of my club The Badminton and Racquet Club (B&R). I see him often and train with him every Monday during the squash season. This is why Jonathon Power was chosen as my Hero.