Charles Sharpes is preparing for the biggest season of his career as he tries to make the jump to senior level squash.
The 2014 British U23 National Champion produced a career-best showing at last week’s senior National Championships, reaching the quarter-finals where he lost 11-3 11-3 11-6 to Adrian Waller.
The world number 69 from Kingston had already beaten qualifier Peter Billson 11-6 5-11 11-8 14-12 in the first round before James Willstrop had to pull out of their second round match.
“It was my first time in the quarter final and I was a bit disappointed with the way I played but it was a great experience,” said Sharpes.
“I was playing against a top 16 player so it was hard for me to match him but I will learn from it and try and improve.”
Having turned 23 two weeks ago, Sharpes can no longer compete in the U23 age group and must now concentrate on senior tournaments.
He showcased his potential at last month’s Pittsburgh Open when he reached the semi-finals, beating second seed and world number 24 Alister Walker 13-11 11-9 11-4 along the way.
But despite that success, he knows there is still plenty to do to challenge the top 20.
“It’s my first season beyond U23 so it is time for me to make that big jump up to senior standard and show what I can do,” he said.
“England has had some really good players in recent years, and it is up to me to show I am up to that standard.
“I am working on all aspects of my game but obviously people are naturally better at different things.
“My aim now is to improve my movement and keep up my fitness. I feel I can match anyone and that I can out hit anybody.
“The challenge is to do that consistently because that is the only way to reach the level of the top players.”
Pictures of Charles Sharpes courtesy of squashsite, with thanks
