Paul stepped onto the squash court for the first time in October 1996, which means he will soon be celebrating 28 years of playing squash. He began his coaching career in 2007 when he took on his first youth group, which included future multiple Estonian champions Reele Komi, Kristjan Pettai, and Jaanus Pettai. In his coaching journey, he has been most influenced by British squash coach John Milton, who served as a consultant from 2007 to 2009, and Belgian squash coach Ronny Vlassaks, who was one of the instructors at WSF coaching courses. Although Paul’s main work is in the theater industry, coaching has always provided a great and exciting change of pace.

Paul learned about the planning of the new club in the fall of 2023, quite close to his birthday, and he considers it one of the best “birthday gifts” he has received lately. Yolo Squash has the best possible courts, ownership by squash players, and a pleasant club atmosphere. All of this makes training and coaching exceptionally enjoyable.

The future of squash in Estonia looks very bright to Paul. With the new squash club, the new head coach Tomi Niinimäki from Finland, and squash being included as an Olympic sport for the first time in Los Angeles in 2028, he hopes that many newcomers will discover squash, as well as “veterans” who have taken a break from the game.

Facts about Paul:

• 37 years old (but his heart rate monitor says he is 29)
• 10-time Estonian champion in squash
• 1-time Estonian champion in floorball
• Completed WSF (World Squash Federation) level 2 and 3 coaching courses
• Achieved the junior coach qualification in the Estonian coaching system
• Freelance theater producer and dramaturge
• Co-founder of the Kinoteater
• Drinks tea with milk