BENDIGO squash supremo Jo Richards has claimed a bronze medal at the Australian Deaf Games.

Richards finished third as a member of the Victorian squash team and also managed a forth placing in individual competition.

In her first major tournament, Richards said although she thoroughly enjoyed the experience of socialising with other deaf athletes, the Gold Coast venues were difficult to compete in.

‘‘The tournament was fantastic and I was pleased with how it went, (but) the venues were very humid and hot, with no ventilation,’’ Richards said.

‘‘The most enjoyable experience was meeting and competing with new players from all over Australia and the challenge was fun.

‘‘Socialising with other deaf athletes was the best part of the tournament as their was no communication barrier as all signed Auslan (Australian Sign Language) which made me feel proud of being deaf and not alone.’’

New South Wales triumphed ahead of Queensland in the team event and Richards said competition was challenging throughout the tournament.

‘‘I played as the number one player and with Victoria’s number two player struggling to play because of an injured wrist, we were all pleased with our overall performance,’’ she said.

‘‘Individually, I was fourth after four close games and some tough competition (but) I didn’t have any idea of what it would be like other than I was curious about who I would be playing and who the new players were.’’

Richards’ triumphs have further spurred her to achieve her ultimate ambition: a world championship.

‘‘This experience has motivated me to pursue my squash skills further and I’m determined to get a gold in the next Australian Deaf Games in 2012 which will be held in Victoria,’’ Richards said.

‘‘I would like to sincerely thank my major sponsor La Trobe University Bendigo and other sponsors BRIT, Rocklyn Apiaries, Bendigo Squash Centre and Stubberfield Group Practice of Leo Treble and Associates, without them I would not have been able to pursue my dream to compete at the Australia Deaf Games 2008.’’Bendigoians can see some of the best deaf squash players in Australia close up in October.

‘‘Bendigo will be hosting the Australia Deaf Squash Championship in early October 2008 and it would be great if I could get further sponsorship from the very generous Bendigo community to make this the best experience for all players,’’ she said.

‘‘Anyone interested in sponsorship of the Australian Deaf Squash Championship can contact me through the Bendigo Squash Centre.

‘‘Any new (players) are welcome to compete.’’

For more information, contact the Bendigo Squash Centre in Barnard Street on 5443 2777.