Meet the Massaros: How Preston couple are setting the squash world alight

Laura Massaro has risen to become the world number one in squash, with her husband Danny supporting her every step of the way

A Preston man who has coached his wife to international sporting success has been recognised for his commitment.

Danny Massaro has led his wife Laura to the world number one ranking for squash and has has notched up a world championship.

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Danny said: “For me, winning the award was a small sign that I have been appreciated for my part in Laura’s success.

“As a coach you are very giving and take on a lot of pressure. As Laura is my wife it has often been even more than usual. It is nice to be recognised for that, although it feels a bit strange because Laura is the one who goes out and delivers the hard part!

“Sharing the award with David, my friend and coaching mentor was particularly exciting. It feels like a real team effort we have put in over the past five years so it made it all much sweeter to win it with him. I feel very proud.”

Coaching duo: David Pearson and Danny Massaro

England Squash’s head of coaching Tom Duggan said: “The team effort of David and Danny has been a major driving force for Laura’s international success. Each brings a different coaching style; David knows first hand what it takes to perform on the world stage, while Danny as Laura’s husband is key to her daily training routine.

“It would be wrong merely to pigeonhole the achievements of these exceptional coaches to Laura Massaro. They both work with a number of other England and England Academy players and their commitment to the sport is an inspiration.”

The awards were handed out at The Polar Squash Workforce Awards.

Do you know Danny and Laura? What do you think of the award? Let us know in the comments below