Next week sees Essex League Squash returns with the opening round of matches in the Summer League. The League is split into four divisions of six, with ten matches played across a three month period.
Premier – Barker
Gidea Park 1, Hamptons 1, Kingswood 1, Lexden 1, Old Brentwood & Maldon 1
Last summer, Kingswood 1 stormed to the title with an almost flawless campaign, dropping just one match—an away fixture against Lexden 1. As reigning champions, they’ll be determined to defend their crown, but the competition looks even fiercer this time around. Maldon 1 and Hamptons 1, who both finished above Kingswood in the Autumn/Winter league, will be looking to carry that momentum into the summer. Maldon in particular will be a major threat; their squad is packed with depth, and their imperious home form at Park Drive—where they haven’t lost in nearly ten months—makes them a daunting prospect for any visiting side. Expect a fiercely contested division, with multiple teams in with a real shot at the title.
Predictions
Winner: Maldon 1
Runner-up: Hamptons 1
Premier – Selby
Gidea Park 2, Gidea Park 3, Hamptons 2, Kingswood 3, Maldon 2 & Woodford Wells 2
Hamptons 2 will be aiming to build on their impressive 2024/25 campaign, which saw them lift the Division One trophy and reach the Essex Cup final. But they’re unlikely to have it all their own way this season. Woodford Wells 2 and Maldon 2 both boast strong lineups and will be serious contenders, while Gidea Park 3—fresh off their Division One West title—are more than capable of causing upsets. Expect a highly competitive season ahead.
Predictions
Winner: Hamptons 2
Runner-up: Woodford Wells 2
Essex – East
Clements, Hamptons 3, Kingswood 2, Lexden 2, Thurrock, Witham
This promises to be one of the most competitive divisions of the Summer league, with three strong contenders—Kingswood 2, Clements, and Lexden 2—all in the hunt for the title. Thurrock’s home form gives them an edge on their own courts, while newcomers Witham add an element of unpredictability to the mix. With quality spread throughout the division, this one is shaping up to go right down to the wire.
Predictions
Winner: Clements
Runner-up: Lexden 2
Essex – West
Connaught Chrome, Connaught Cobalt, Redbridge, Walthamstow Blue, Walthamstow Red, Woodford Wells 4
With Woodford Wells 4 coming off a league-winning season, they remain the team to beat—but this year’s competition looks fiercer. Connaught Chrome bring a mix of seasoned players and tactical discipline, while Walthamstow Blue have momentum and rising talent on their side. Both are well-positioned to challenge for the top, and any slip-up from Wells could open the door. Expect a tight race at the top, with matches between these three sides likely deciding the title.
Predictions
Winner: Woodford Wells 4
Runner-up: Walthamstow Blue
For full fixtures, results and tables, visit the Essex Squash League website.
