Gold for Millfield squash player at Czech Junior Open

Millfield student Naomi Wiegenfeld has won the Czech Junior Open Gold Squash Championships, overcoming the best junior players in her age group from across Europe. 

Despite being just 14 years old, Naomi competed in the U17 category, facing opponents up to two years older. Showing remarkable composure and skill, she put on an outstanding performance to secure her first win in this age group.  

Since joining Millfield in September, Naomi has demonstrated outstanding dedication and commitment to her training, which has been reflected in her results. She trains alongside her two brothers, Gilad and Tamir, who also attend Millfield. Speaking about the programme, Naomi said, “My favourite part of the squash programme is that I get to train with my siblings”. Naomi began playing squash at the age of eight while living in the United States and intensified her training after moving to Israel at the age of nine. 

The Year 9 pupil maintains a demanding schedule, training six times per week alongside three strength and conditioning sessions, while successfully balancing her academic studies. Naomi explained, “I have to be efficient to keep up with my academics as I travel frequently for squash, but I manage it well with amazing help from my teachers and coaches.” 

Millfield’s Director of Squash, Ian Thomas, said "This is Naomi's first win in a U17 age group, which is a fantastic achievement, showing maturity beyond her years in her matchplay. Naomi has worked incredibly hard since joining Millfield in September 2025, she has proved to be an incredibly quick learner, which is evident in these performances." 

Looking ahead, Naomi hopes to continue training hard and progressing through the ranks, with aspirations of playing competitive squash at university level. 

Boys and girls of all ages and ability are encouraged to play and enjoy squash at Millfield, not just on a full-time basis but also as a fitness and social activity. With six recently refurbished squash courts, students have the means to continually develop their technique and skill, while gaining experience in numerous fixtures and competitions. Old Millfieldians include Peter Marshall, a former British and European Number 1 and World Number 2 professional squash player, Mohamed El Shorbagy, former World Number 1 and Marwan El Shorbagy, former World Number 3, regularly return to Millfield to train.