In its most successful campaign yet at the Southeast Asian Junior Individual Squash Championships (SEAJIC), the squash squad from Singapore won an impressive six gold, two silver and six bronze medals at the 2026 edition.
The tournament, held in Manila, Philippines, pitted top talents from across Southeast Asia in a six-day event held from June 10 to 15.
Four out of the six gold medals were secured by Singaporeans, including siblings Kareena Sashikumar, 12, and Jackrish Sashikumar, 14, who claimed the Girls’ Under-13 and Boys’ Under-15 titles respectively, and Naisha Singh and Rehaan Singh, 15, who emerged champions in the Girls’ and Boys’ Under-17 categories.
In May, all four had taken part in the Asian Junior Individual Championships in China, where Kareena became the first Singaporean to win an Asian junior individual age-group title.
After barely resting their racquets that month, the players had trained hard for the SEAJIC, with their eyes set on a podium finish.
“I’m very happy and grateful to win this title again,” said Kareena. “It was a tough tournament, and I’m thankful to my coaches, family, teammates and everyone who supported me.”
Jackrish was Singapore’s first SEAJIC champion in 2023, winning the Boys’ Under-13 title in Bangkok. Winning the title again, this time alongside his sister, made for a rather remarkable moment in their family’s illustrious sporting history.
The Singh twins also played a tournament to remember.
“I feel extremely proud and happy to win this tournament,” said Rehaan. “All the hard work, sacrifices and training sessions finally paid off. Winning a medal for my country is a source of great pride.”
The Singapore contingent was led by coaches Lukasz Kondratowicz and Lawrence Kwan, alongside team manager Li Li.
“I am pleased with what the players achieved. Every player will return home with valuable lessons from this tournament. That is the most important thing as they continue their development into mature and complete athletes,” said Lukasz, predicting a bright future for squash in Singapore.
