** Venn diagrams of my role at the UClub
******
All
I have known John for only three years, but in that time I have not only almost learned how to play doubles, but I have met someone who really loves baseball the way I do.
He may know a lot about squash, but I swear he knows almost everything about baseball.
Craig McAllister
******
How does one quit a job that doesn't require a man to wear pants?
Have a fantastic journey.All the best,
Michael O’Connor
******
John,
Thank you for sharing all of your squash wisdom with both of us over the years. We have enjoyed having you as a mentor and someone to learn from on and off the court.
Your experience and dedication to the club and the sport has been remarkable. We shall forever be grateful for all you have done. THe game on the west coast would not be the same without you.
We wish you the best in your retirement and we expect to see you on the courts often!
Best,
Lauren and Busani
Lauren and Busani
******
Ode to John Lau
Stud by the Bay
Oh, some squash he did play
Under the care of Coach Dick
John learned the boast, the lob, the nick
On the Harmon Gym courts
Alongside Gessling, Gross, various other sorts
Afro standing tall
John could crush that hardball
With teaching in his blood and soul
John spent years in the classroom @ Mt Diablo
But teaching squash was his joint
And so in 85 he took point
As the pro on Nob Hill
Giving advice and goodwill
And because he still wanted to play competitively
On weekends he pulled a reverse Horace Greeley
(Go East young man, go East)
He found him some whites
And jumped on a few flights
New Haven, Boston, NYC
Competition was fierce; Linden, Big D
And after many a close call
He hung some hardware on the wall
Down 0-2 in 91 at Payne-Whitney
A comeback ensued - John won the next three
And then he won the '98 Dubs over 40's
With his bud and right wall mate, Gordie
But John's main squash legacy
Is this rackets playing family tree
From each Jester, teammate, and Rickety Peer
To so many other squash playing friends dear
Teacher, partner, frequent champion of the tourney
We're thankful for you friend - it's been quite a journey
Ross Revenaugh
Ross - your eloquent verses came as quite a surprise......I'm flattered - John
******
John,
I’ve known you before you joined the U Club and you have been unfailingly gracious to me and I have deeply admired your professionalism and wisdom.
You were brilliant at client squash and i marveled at your ability to know exactly where the ball would go - it seemed other-worldly.
You will be missed greatly. I am presently in Sydney and can't make the party,
My best wishes go with you.
Graham Taylor
******
John:
it has been a pleasure knowing you for these past 32 years: whether watching you on court, holding a shot second; discussing the theory of the game, or being on court with you.
For me, all of them were learning experiences Enjoy your retirement, and happy cycling!
Dale Lucas
******
Dear John,
I'll always thank you for persevering in trying to help me play squash, and introducing me to the 7 minute workout!
You're a one in a million guy. I wish you all the best, always!
Laurie Regan Chase
******
Hi John,
From 1994 when I first moved to San Francisco and joined the University Club, you have been a friend and squash mentor. Hope to see you around the Club!
All the best,
Geoff Bennett
Geoff Bennett
******
Dear John
Thanks for the warm welcome to San Francisco squash and to the great game of Doubles Squash! I wish you all the best i your retirement.
Regards,
Ben Herila
******
John
Sorry to miss your send-off tonight. While I cannot be there in person, please remember that you were a very large part of many of our lives. When I reflect on our time together - be it playing doubles at lunch, watching you teach Tad IV and Isabel our tournament play
Et al- the memories are special and permanent. You are a good man.
Tad
******
Reflective Impressions of John Lau
I often refer to John as a "high priest of squash" in North America. I
delight inwardly at the deeper truth of this.
John is devoted to the game of squash, and has inspired hundreds if not thousands of others with his great spirit.
John is truly a high priest because he understands the unique spiritual aspects of playing squash: Community with others, the morality of fair play, the transcendence each player can achieve individually, and that a group of players can achieve together in a great match.
It is telling that when John was literally fighting for his life, he understood the struggle in terms of a squash match.
Squash is life!
On this earthly plane, as each of us is trying to achieve integrity and integration, John embodies and transmits the practice of Squash as a divine gift for perfecting ourselves.
Squash, like many other sports, is not just a game. It is a dynamic spiritual practice for those who understand the depths of our sport. And have had the benefit of coaching from John!
John, you are widely and deeply beloved for the great leader that you are!
Peter Lynch
******
John
I'm hopng I'll still be able to see you in the coming months, but I wanted to share with you some thoughts of gratitude as I will be out of town for the squash dinner.
When I first came to the U Club almost 3 years ago, you were one of the first people that made me feel so welcomed to the Club. And quite frankly, I had a tough time when I first moved to the City, because I didn't know anyone and lived in a really depressing area.
The U dub has truly been a second home to me, and a huge part of that has been as a result your presence, the amazing squash program, and the culture around the game of squash that exists at the Club.
I don't know if you realize how appreciative I am that you went completely out of your way to teach me the game of doubles which I have taken a liking to. I remember every single piece of advice you have given me - from learning the mid-court attack mentality, to positioning and movement patterns, to in-game advice. Or the time that you took me on court with a hardball singles ball and for the first time made me comfortable volleying any hard shot off the side wall (that was my issue in tough matches -- getting exposed with really hard shots coming off the wall).
I'm going to miss seeing your face whenever I stroll by the club. I want to wish you all the best post-retirement and truly hope to stay friends!
All the best,
Dan Judd
P.S Now that I am healthy again, if you ever want to go on a bike ride around the city, I'm game!
Dan - the pleasure was all mine. I particularly recall the off-the-wall volleying drill in the doubles court - in my mind, the single most difficult game adjustment for a softball player.
When we resume playing, hopefully in the not too distance future, try to attempt a VOLLEY reverse corner winner from a firmly struck crosscourt after the ball just caroms off the side wall. If you can hit this shot with regularity, you can consider yourself a doubles player - John
******
John,
News of your retirement has overwhelmed me primarily with sorrow but also with a bit of hopeful enthusiasm. My sorrow comes from a sense of loss to the void you will leave behind. I cannot fathom the Club without it centered on your constant leadership, spirit, and dedication. At the same time, I eagerly await to see how you enjoy the next chapter of your life and am comforted in the hope that I may enjoy your presence more, now that you are unburdened by your endless babysitting duties (and once I find my way away from work...)
Thank you so much for all of the effort you have put in to make the University Club what it is today. It is truly impossible to articulate the difference you made in all of our lives.
I know you always thought of your trials with leukemia as a game 5. I like to think of it as a grueling tie-break in game 2.
Here's to a wonderful journey through games 3, 4, and 5!
Yours gratefully,
Eric Toan
******
To John, on the occasion of his retirement as Squash Professional at the University Oub of San Francisco, my · squash instructor and life coach.
My first trip to the University Club was a simple introduction in 2006. My squash buddies at the Torontc Racquet Club told me to contact John Lau to get set up for doubles squash in San Francisco. I walked into the front desk of the club house, asked for a tour and an introduction to John Lau. You quickly got me involved me in the Monday and Tuesday evening games. I have continued playing those games for the past 11 years, enjoying the squash community and watching the revitalization of the club along the way. It has been a terrific journey.
I arrived in San Francisco just before my 55th birthday. It was immediately evident that you were a different kind of squash professional. Until recently, I was unaware of your early career successes on the squash court as a singles player. Belated congratulations on those successes.
I am very aware of your skills on the doubles court both with the racquet and with the strategy.
Finally, I personally experienced your talent as a teacher of racquet skills and as a coach for squash as a metaphor for life. I learned a lot. Thank you. For me, your greatest talent is your ability to connect with each member and make them feel like you are only speaking to them. This is a wonderful talent that speaks to your commitment to the members and the game.
Congratulations on 30+ year as a squash professional.
Sincerely, your friend,
Bob Kosnik
******
John
I am sorry that I am missing your retirement party. Family obligations requires my presence on the east coast.
I remember very clearly when you became the Squash Pro at the University Club. We were all excited about having a pro and having you as our Pro. Before you joined us, you had always been a high
quality singles player in our tournaments and a friendly and sociable participant. We all enjoyed your matches and your presence at our club
quality singles player in our tournaments and a friendly and sociable participant. We all enjoyed your matches and your presence at our club
Unfortunately for me, no one had taught me the proper techniques to playing good squash. Fortunately, I discovered that you were a very good teacher and that your instructions were extraordinarily helpful for my version of squash.
Over the years we have spent countless hours on the squash court trying to make me into a halfway decent singles and doubles squash player. I know that I frustrated you on many occasions as you dealt with my volatile Irish personality. You would smile and patiently explain to me how I was wrong and believe it or not, I listened and learned. You are a great teacher in part because you were always adjusting the things you focused on in a lesson. I can't play squash very well, but I owe what little ability I have to you. Thanks for the instruction.
You were a great leader of our squash community and a tireless promoter of squash in San Francisco and especially at the University Club. Having participated in organizing tournament draws before you became the squash pro, I have always marveled at your ability to organize the draws and run a tournament. I thought you were a magician that we were so lucky to have you as our squash pro.
I came to admire you for your athletic ability and your 120% commitment to our sport. Your other athletic abilities also impressed me especially the cycling. I really enjoyed discussing athletic training and a commitment to a life full of exercise whenever we had time to chat. I got many useful suggestions from you about how to work out and how to deal with injuries. Thanks for the help and support.
You married a wonderful woman, who I have respected ever since she agreed to partner with me when my abilities were highly suspect. I remember that tournament well although it was almost 30 years ago. I have enjoyed discussing your two daughters with you and I believe that you are a great father to them. It may be your most important accomplishment in your life.
When you got sick, you addressed that issue with the same quiet determination and also with a spirit of optimism. You did not play the victim or act sorry for yourself. It appears as if you have beaten formidable odds and beaten your cancer. I have benefited from discussing how cancer survivors like us must accept disease caused disabilities and move on with a positive attitude. Again, you have set a wonderful example and many others in your approach and commitment to dealing with cancer.
Lastly John, I consider you as a friend and a good one. I deeply appreciate your friendship for over 30 years. You have made me a better man, a better athlete, and better family man and you have brought a wonderful pleasant light into my life. Thank you for being there for me in so many ways and for so long a time.
I hope we can get together for dinner after I return for my short trip.
Regards,
Owen O'Donnell
Owen - anything worth doing, is worth doing to excess! - John
******
Dear John
I have so many memories of you trying to teach me the game of squash.
First, it was the hardball game in the old days when all we had were hardball courts on Nob Hill. Then the softball game where I actually had to run for a shot.
But suddenly i found myself older and not quite as nimble. Then the game of doubles which became my favorite. And now I live in Carmel where there are no courts! In any event, you were always a great inspiration for me largely because of your teaching abilities and your total dedication to the game.
And while I can't cite all of your tournament wins, I know there were many national as well as local titles.. The world of squash certainly will miss John Lau but we all know that life event chapters end and new ones begin.
Here's wishing you the success in your new chapter.
Best wishes,
Pat Healy
Pat Healy
******
John. I am sorry I cannot be there on Friday. Thank you for all you tried to do with my squash, sorry I could never quite get it.
I'll keep trying.
Best wishes for the future
George Fesus
George - One can't expect any more than that. - John
******
You have made a genuine difference in my life.
Squash has been my principal competitive sport for many years - doubles most recently. You have played a large part in developing my love for the sport and making me a better player.
I truly believe that I have been a slow learner, but I do think I am finally positioning myself, for the most part, correctly in the court, and getting better at choosing the shot to hit. My challenge is to widen my focus and be aware of the big picture of the game, rather than having a laser focus on the point or stroke at hand regardless of the position of the point in the greater context of the match. I also am trying to become a better clutch player. Peter is my role model in that endeavor.
You have helped me all along. I particularly remember your efforts on working on my footwork after my knee operations; helping me be more efficient with that part of my game.
More than any of this, though, you have inspired me with your battle with leukemia. 1 remember so well my visit with you at your home and your description of the steps that you were facing as you fought the disease. You used squash as your metaphor for the process and for your ability to maintain a positive attitude. I remember so clearly your describing a bone marrow transplant as the last real hope. I felt so awkward and at a loss for words and feeling like I could be visiting you for close the last time..
Thankfully, your last step worked, and you indeed are the poster boy for beating that disease. You are inspirational and a role model for meeting the ultimate challenge. You are also a wonderful soul that I will miss seeing in that chair in your office or on the left side of the court.
I will though make regular attempts to get you to the club for matches; you are a life member, after all!
Thank you for all that you have been in my life. Enjoy this next chapter and discover the undiscovered parts of yourself.
With warm regards,
Bob Bingham
Bob- Thanks for the collection of tributes from fellow players and members of the Club. You played a big part in it's creation. It will be forever cherished. - John
******
I've known John for quite awhile, since 1973 to be exact when I, along with John, was student at Cal, almost 45 years ago.
Tonight I'd like to congratulate John and thank him for a few things.
Back in 1973, we were beginning squash singles players at Cal, when playing squash meant climbing down a ladder to get into one of 5 all-maple narrow courts built in the 30's in the bowels of Harmon gym, At the time the game the was was Hardball played with wooden racquets and a ball so hard and fast it would make your head spin.
Firstly I would like to thank John for being a better player than I was.....his level of play was a bench-mark of mine for many years.
Back then, as one rose in class from novice, to D, to C, to B, and then to A, the guys who would beat you would immediately move up in class as they won tournaments, and wouldn't be there the next week to pound you again. Well, John was always one step ahead of me........waiting to pound me again when I graduated to the new class, and then leaving that class to await me to pound me up in the next.
Ironically, by moving up a class, newly minted groups would earn the right to get "pounded" AGAIN upon reaching the higher class. And the same cycle would be repeated as ambitious players with high pain tolerances climbed the ladder from class to class. - John
We had traveled down to Venice, California for tournaments a few of times, and later traveled all over the US and Canada playing squash.
Given it's well-earned reputation, one would think that having a squash club in Venice, California was improbable. But there it was.... - John
In 1975, we traveled together with fellow classmate Steve Morton in my yellow VW Bug to Portland during a weekend in January to play in the Pacific Coast Singles Championship with all of our sweaty squash gear.
THE BIG TIME! (or so we thought). In the SNOW! What were we thinking?
I don't remember how it happened, but John was the finalist in the C's, John's opponent was Canadian Mark Cox. I thought it was really something. I thought, maybe I could make it to a Class C final sometime. Eventually, we both rose to Class A, and he was there. AGAIN, week after week. Never going away.
John, Tom Dashiell and Paul Gessling all took turns kicking my ass in what seemed like every singles tournament semi-final for about a dozen years. Sure, I might have won a few matches and a couple of lourneys, but that was certainly the exception, not the rule. It was pretty much impossible for me to beat TWO of them in a single weekend.
While just recently graduated from Cal, I remember on one fateful weekend, during the University Club Singles Invitational, that the four of us (Tom, Paul, Kris, and myself) once again reached the Semi's. But rather than have the Finals be contested by the usual twosome of Gessling and Dashiell, Kris broke through to secure a a place in the Finals and riding this wave WON the tournament. A breakthrough! Nicely done, Kris!
John
John was a relentless opponent, always fit, always ready. Jesus, did the guy ever have a bad day? And didn't he ever tire of beating me up?
Secondly, I'd like to thank John for convincing me to become a doubles specialist. When we all started playing doubles at the University Club, I started with Paul Gessling as my partner; John partnered with Andre Naniche. Let me take this opportunity to thank Paul for dumping me as his partner, and John, once again, for dumping Andre, because Andre and I started playing doubles together in a partnership that lasted 12 years. We were reasonably successful and on better footing against John than we were for singles. In fact, we might have spanked John and his then partner Ed Dold a few times along the way.
Eventually, as we all got older, we played with different partners a few times I'd like to again thank John for taking me on as his partner at a time when my skills were diminishing, but his were as strong as ever, and he could have played with a lot better partner than myself. He even took me on a nice ride pretty far in the World Doubles, I think to the semi final, one year in Toronto. It was really fun having a partner who would cover 80% of the court while I stood in one place going for winners.
I'd also like to thank John for always making it possible for all of us non-members to practice doubles here at the University Club, for scheduling matches, for running interference for us with the membership (with whom some of us got crossways with once in awhile), always being available to fill in for someone who didn't show up. Only because of his willingness to promote the game, and help us, his friends and competitors, were we all able to develop our doubles skills and enjoy the doubles game. His cnthusiasm for the game was, and remains, remarkable. How did he spend all those hours on the court. day after day, almost always with much, much lesser players? (like many of the people in this room.)
In closing, let me say that to me. John's been more than a squash partner, more than an invincible opponentt, more than a champion.......he's been a life-long friend, a gentleman, a sportsman, and an all-around good guy.
I can give no greater compliment. We all are better for having been on the squash court with John in one role or another.
Congratulations on your retirement my friend.
Kris Surano
That was quite the an era of Cal Squash. The game was Hardball, and the aforementioned Cal Alums along with a few other regional players attained National rankings. One player was Fresno's Jim Huebner, who went to the Semi-Finals in the National Intercollegiates. Quite an achievement! - John
******
John
First of all, I want to thank the University Club for inviting me to be here at John's retirement dinner. I would like to say a few words about John that I'm not sure he'll be that thankful for.
I first met John 1n 1972 when he signed up for one of my tennis classes at Berkeley. I observed someone on the tennis court with quick feet with great hand-eye coordination but stroke production was a question mark.
At the time, I was looking for talent to put together an undergrad squash team; so I suggested to John to give my squash class a try. After some urging, I also mentioned that I would "flunk" him out of my tennis class; so he joined us in the squash courts which were located in the locker room at Harmon Gym. (Which some of you were familiar with and no longer exist).
John took to the game and never looked back.
By the time he graduated in 1975, he was a solid "A" player.
During his 4 years as an undergraduate at Cal, John actively played tournaments up and down the Pacific Coast - from Venice to Portland. During this period, his biggest accomplishment was him reaching the Finals of the 1975 Pacific Coast Championships "C" held at Portland's Multnomah Athletic Club. (As I remember, Kris Surano, Steve Morton, and you managed to pile in Kris' yellow super beetle along with all of your gear and headed North. Fellow teammates, Ted Gross and Guy Lampard also made the trip.
John was really the first great player to come through the Cal squash program while I was there. (my only regret with John was I didn't get a chance to take him back East to play in the Intercollegiates - he went to Cal before the Squash team began).
I'm very proud of John for all that he has accomplished at Cal; with all of his tournament wins throughout the country and being a great Pro at the University Club. It's been a privilege to be your friend.
I want to wish you and your wife, Evy, and family a relaxing retirement and enjoy your travels in the coming years.
Dick Crawford
******
John
I am sorry not to be able to join the evening festivities to celebrate John's years of contribution to San Fransisco squash, Tonight is our opening dinner to my squash camps and I have to be there.
I am sorry not to be able to join the evening festivities to celebrate John's years of contribution to San Fransisco squash, Tonight is our opening dinner to my squash camps and I have to be there.
We started in Seattle, then Portland, and finished in SF at the U Club. Tommy and I drove the entire coast road from Portland to SF with no idea how long and twisty it actualy was. We had a couple of days between our matches in Portand and SF so we thought we had plenty of time. As we were racing to make the matches at 4:00, we realized we were still hours away and would never make it on time. I called John and he calmly told me not to worry and the organizers would switch things around and have Clive and Sharif play first and Tommy and I could play each other when we arrived.
It was the only occasion in my 18 year playing career that I was not even close to making the match time... I was so impressed with how chill John was and what a cool place the UClub was.
We had an amazing weekend of fun, fun, fun, John always made sure we were treated to a special time. It was a big deal back then to all of the hardball pros to come to SF and to include it on our yearly schedule. When we thought of SF squash, we thought of John Lau, thanks for the wonderful memories.
Mark Talbott
******
John IS and has been a very influential person in my life. I am proud to call him my dear friend.
If you were in San Francisco and was at all interested in the game of Squash, you were bound to come in contact with John. The good fortune of meeting John in due time reveals itself to many as it pertained to squash, but in other instances as well.
Many, many years ago, I believed, as a young squash player at the University Club, that I was the greatest player the game had ever seen!
In my mind, I would be able to easily handle all of the Club's players -usually players twice my age, with relative case. John saw my over-inflated head almost every day. and he decided that I needed a little lesson in humility.
His method was unique - at least to me.
One day he came to me and asked if I would be available to help train another player who was bound for Seattle that year, to compete in the Nationals. I envisioned a young Cal player who needed help in understanding the game more fully and that I was exactly the person to provide that assistance. I said "Sure!" He said "Great! Be here tomorrow at noon and I will inform "Walter" that you will be happy to help him train and get ready for his tournament".
The next day, I eagerly arrived at 11:30 am to stretch and warm up a bit just on the outside chance that this "kid" had game. I was on court one when, at 11:55am, the door opened and what I saw was the last thing I cxpected to see. The gentleman who stood in the doorway was very distinguished and easily 70 years old.
He looked at me and asked “are you John Stewart?" "Yes Sir", I replicd. "Hi John", he said. "I'm Walter Pettit. Thanks so much for meeting with me and helping me with my game"
.
Now, I can tell you that my first thoughts were, "How could my Pro set me up with this old guy? Who does John think I am? Is this some kind of joke?" I was appalled to think that I was being tasked in playing with a septuagenarian." Doesn't John know who I think I am?"
Now, I can tell you that my first thoughts were, "How could my Pro set me up with this old guy? Who does John think I am? Is this some kind of joke?" I was appalled to think that I was being tasked in playing with a septuagenarian." Doesn't John know who I think I am?"
Well, Walter went to the locker room and changed clothes for our match. Walter got on the court with me, I'm still fuming a bit, and we warmed up.
Incidentally, this was a long time ago and we were playing on the old style hardball singles court and we were playing with the hard "red white dot" ball. The time came where he was ready to play and he asked me to serve it up......
I DIDN'T WIN A SINGLE POINT until the middle of the second game and to this day it was one of the most humbling experIences of my life.
It wasn't until later that I found out that Walter was ranked #2 in the U.S. while he attended Princeton sometime in the '20's. The #1 player at that time was his contemporary back then, Jack Barnaby, from Harvard (with whom John arranged a lesson for me when Jack visited the U Club once...yet another grateful benefit of knowing the great John Lau).
It didn't take me long to recover from the initial shock.
For the next month, Walter and I met every day at Noon on Court 1 and during that time we became close friends and he was someone who would become very important to me later on. Together, we sparred and we worked on honing his game and improving mine in that month until he felt confident when it became time to play in the National Championships.
The preparation allowed Walter to win his division handily. He was awarded the Champion's trophy. To acknowledge my sparring with him, he had a smaller trophy made that was a replica of the one he had won. Once back he SF, he presented it to me. I still have the cherished trophy to this day.
The gesture alone was yet another lesson I would learn in grace and humility John that knew I would receive from this whole experience. John had a plan for me way back then and the way he executed that plan was for me to experience it for myself and thereby locking it in. Mission accomplished. I will never forget this, as many of you know, as I have told this story many times over the years. It's impact on me was obviously profound and lasting.
This is just one story of the immeasurable influence of one man, hidden in a relatively unknown game we all love. Again, for those of us who have discovered our game, the name, John Lau, is known very well. And, it's known not only across the country but around the world.
I have played in many places with many international players who, when hearing I'm from San Francisco, without fail ask, “So you know John Lau!?"
And it is with immense pride that I am able to reply........ "Yes I do!"
John Stewart
John - I saw an opportunity to create a match made in squash heaven and I seized upon it. From one Jester to another - John
******
All
I hope that you received this and it isn't too late:
I have known John longer than I can remember.
I first heard about John when I was playing junior squash while growing up in Newport, Rl- he was one of the exotic hardball singles players from California who did well in the US National (hardball) Singles Championships every year - so I knew of him before I got to know him. Then in 1987 I graduated from college and got a job in the SF Bay Area, moved to San Francisco, and re-connected with John at the University Club.
From the beginning, he was both open and welcoming, and very competitive on court while somehow remaining friends with almost everyone he competed with - a balancing act which seems to come naturally to John, but which is hard for many people to maintain.
Despite his friendliness, I didn't join the University Club until about ten years later, when I started playing doubles - and then John was even more welcoming and helpful; introducing me, a hardcore singles player, to the nuances and intricacies of doubles, and I have been hooked ever since.
Of course, John has been indispensable to squash in the Bay Area well beyond being friends with individual players - he has long been a leader in creating and running events, including in-house tournaments such as our Club Championships and the Calcutta, and many external "Open" events including Simon Blattner's Rittenhouse / East Side / SF Open, the UClub Invitational, the Octogenarian, the Cal State Doubles, the Pacific Coast Doubles Championships contested every three years (currently, the other two venues are Portland and Vancouver) , and others I'm forgetting.
He has been instrumental in growing the squash community within our Club, in the City, in the Bay Area, and on the Pacific Coast. His daily involvement with the club will be sorely missed, and I sincerely hope that he doesn't succumb to the siren song of his bicycle, and that he continues to indulge his passion for the game (at least in the rainy winter months)
Kevin Jernigan
Kevin - I looked forward for you becoming a member of the UClub. It brought a bit of east coast polish to our club which enriched our squash culture immensely. - John
******
A few memories of conversations with John.
Practice doesn’t make perfect - it makes PERMANENT.
Only thoughtful practice leads to sound execution.
Is Softball a better game than Hardball? The question is moot. They are different games requiring different skills and temperment.
Thinking pays. Being overly emotional loses. If you want to be good, become a student of the game."
Best,
Ashley Kayler
Cal Squash Coach.
1994-2009
******
John
I can't remember a time of squash, without you - an important and inspirational part of my life.
By your example,you everyone beiter for knowing you.
What a privilege for me.
James "Kirk" Kirkham
******
SUPER OMNI VELOCITAS!!
Michael Battey
Mike - there is no higher compliment - John
******
John,
I'd like to thank you for helping me begin to comprehend the idea that squash is life.
From the first lesson you gave me in old hardball courts, to introducing me to this addictive game called squash doubles, to your talk to the “C Team about "The Amateur Tradition” at the University Club," to our chats around our recent squash lessons, you have embodied that view.
I appreciate your personal qualities of calmness, clarity, and depth, which speak more than words of how squash and life are connected.
In the letter from Jack Barnaby you shared with the "C" Team, one sentence stands out:
“I mean you tried to make quick aces, to win easy instead of continuing to grind it out in the manner that had built the lead." A winning life does not come cheaply - it takes patience, time, and effort built on strengths.
We members of the C Team learned early on that squash is Scotch (ie, the great game of Squotch), but we are also learning, point-by-point, that squash is indeed life.
Thank you,
Josh "Passport" Lin
June 22, 2017
******
John
Thank you for your friendship and support over the past 20+
years.
years.
At 50 years of age you introduced me to the sport of squash and laid the foundation for my understanding of this wonderful game that I have enjoyed 3 times a week, approximately 3,000+ games.
Everyone will speak of your squash skill because you are a national champion, a PRO. An is true, the praise is due, you are an exceptional athlete, an A+ squasher. But for me, the power of your attraction is the man you are, the quality of your spirit. Although you couldn't be more competitive, you are always, kind, polite, gentle, understanding, courteous, patient, diplomatic, compassionate and humorous. You are available and always willing to participate. You are authentic and genuine, with boundaries in place willing to say what you want and also what is unacceptable. You treat everyone equally, never more important than or less than any player. You give the newcomer the same attention ar respect you pay to our club champions.
Simply put John, you are a gentleman with character and integrity. You are a gift to the squash world and to each of us, your students and friends. You have become part of us, so fortunately, you will keep on giving, John, through us...
We thank you.
Your friend,
Sam McCullagh
Sam McCullagh
******
All
I have known John for almost 30 years.
When I first moved to San Francisco in the late 1980s 1 joined the University Club and have played numerous competitive doubles matches against John and his litany of partners which included Paul Gessling, Ed Dold, Ming Tsai, and many others.
John is a true legend in the squash world and has done an amazing job of making squash so popular in the Bay Area.
He is a fierce competitor on the court but always a gentleman both on and off the court.
Sorry I will not be able to attend the festivities on Friday as my wife and I will be celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary in Napa. I plan on raising a glass of wine in his honor on Friday night.
Will Fratt
******
I joined the University Club in 1997 after having visited for a dinner, and much to my delight discovered that the club had squash courts. I was living in Los Gatos at the time; so it was quite a drive to come up to the Club. I came once or twice a week to play.
From the very beginning, John was a wonderful coach, helper, and friend. He found partners for me to play against as he routinely gave me playing tips.
Looking back, perhaps the greatest gift of all was when John said one day, “You know, you should try doubles!" As a Brit and living in England, where there are no doubles courts, I was only playing singles on international courts; so I already had to make the adjustment to playing on hardball size courts (which was all that we had at that time!!) and then to try doubles was like asking me to have a crack at at some strange foreign sport like ice hockey. Very gradually, but not reluctantly, I picked it up, and soon it became a passion.
That was when John really started encouraging me. He could see that I had a certain minimal skill, obviously far more than singles; so he encouraged me and frequently asked me to join games when he was coaching others.
Little by little I actually learned some of the fundamentals - like clearing, and angling my racquet correctly, positioning, backing up my partner, etc., etc., to the point that I became quite a creditable low mediocre player.
Luckily my health and vitality has held up; so now my advantage is that I can move marginally better and faster than opponents of the
same age.
Thank you, John, for giving me a new passion in my life, and for the encouragement, instruction, and friendship for the last 20 years. May you have a fruitful, incredibly healthy and long retirement doing exactly what you want do. I know that all the squash players present on this evening will agree with me, that I hope we continue to see you on a regular basis.
Peter Susskind
Peter - The so-called "mediocre" players, as you profess to be one, are the mainstay members of any club. I was glad that we became friends. - John
******
Dear John
More than anything I will always remember your successful (defying all odds) fight against AML.
Extraordinary.
To me, you had no prayer winning this battle but for your incredible conditioning (pre-diagnosis), spirit, and determination. No doubt your case will be memorialized in textbooks.
Extraordinary in a different way was your progression up the squash hierarchy after learning the game without the benefit of prep-school coaching, team-mates, and competition from other renowned schools with squash programs. You did it on sheer talent and grit. And your competitive squash IQ has always been quite compelling. (It has cost me dearly!!).
Jim - the tale of how I learned the game is now out of the bag! - John
I, and everyone else you have encountered over the past decades, could go on and on.
You've been a fixture in the very best sense: a legend, a coach, a teacher, an honest and objective critic, and an incredible advocate of the game on the west coast and beyond. It remains hard to fathom that you will not be leading the University Club's efforts going forward, but we all hope that your contributions to the game, our club and us as individuals make you exceedingly proud. No one will ever forget what you have accomplished and what you have done for each of us individually.
Lots of good luck in your next match-whatever the venue.
Best,
Jim and Brett
Jim and Brett
All
I filled out my game thoroughly after reading Winning Squash Racquets by Jack Barnaby, the venerated Harvard Coach.
In 1992, I won at the Cowles, Jacobs, Barnaby at the Harvard Club in NYC. I wrote him a thank you card and he replied with this shortly afterwards - John
******
All:
John has been a fixture in my life for as long as I can remember. From an early age, accompanied my parents, Jim Gibbons and Brett Elebash, to the University Club on their frequent doubles outings.
John has been a fixture in my life for as long as I can remember. From an early age, accompanied my parents, Jim Gibbons and Brett Elebash, to the University Club on their frequent doubles outings.
As a young lad, the University Club was a fascinating place to explore with it being an old clubhouse of winding hallways, orange lockers, elevated balconies, and a jungle gym weight room.
And John was The Pro.
He's been a professional for as long as I've known him. His desk was a sort of throne and I always wanted to sit in that chair-1 wasn't supposed to but I did. Probably rummaged through his draws too.
In any case, John has been a central figure in my squash life; a sport and community that is a defining part of me, as it is of John too. Many of us share this distinction. Some wear it on their sleeves like a logo. John is more discreet. More sly. Either way he has always been in a class of his own, maybe a world of his own too. And he was deadly competitor on the court. His no nonsense, zen-like movements, and the fluid, crushing strikes of the ball set him apart from most. Not until I left California for Deerfield did some one other than my parents or John regularly coach me in the game of squash. Consequently much of my squash learnings then, as they do now, come through John. Thank you, John!
One day while I was at Cal Berkeley, I attended (on the coattails of my parents) a NorCal Squash reunion at the Golden Gate Yacht Club. In attendance were a number of Cal players among a group of other notable and infamous figures. John and I shared some conversation, him also being a Cal Alumnus.
I distinctly remember him in this moment. As the sun set to the west, its golden light shone past the now silloutted Golden Gate Bridge, and through the dining rooms glass, casting a luminous orange glow on Johns face. He was chuckleing as we spoke and mused, "I wonder what squash will mean to you. I wonder what you'll do with it." These prescience words have stuck with me since that day. Words. I sometimes ponder - particularly after a bitter defeat, or a unrelenting lesson with Jonn. But there is meaning in those words. John's time and life in the game of squash is something to be respected and celebrated it as meaning. Squash has given me much that I love and respect it.
So I thank you again, John, for your service and dedication to the game, your club, and us all.
Live well and play up!
Robert Gibbons
******
John
It’s been a privilege and an honor to know you.
I first met you at the last Rittenhouse Doubles Tournament shortly after I moved to California. You were welcoming and gracious. It was also the only tournament I've ever played on the right wall. You asked me to sub and play with for
Jim Gibbons missing partner, Tony Kelly
e won that match
; and although you asked me to step aside and let Tony play in the finals, it was a truly memorable experience and a thrill for me to have almost been in the finals of the last Rittenhouse! You're nothing but the best. You are always welcome down here in LA.
Dan Karnowsky
Dan - many thanks for supporting the doubles squash tournaments, along with your traveling partner, Paul Robbie, at the University Club over the years. It did not go unnoticed. - John
******
John
A beautiful player......Thoughtful philosopher......Life and Sport Advisor.......Always a friend
Bill Smith
******
Hey John,
Thanks so much for introducing me to the doubles world. I continue to enjoy the camaraderie that it fosters and I owe that to you
Off the court when I ride my bike to the Marin headlands, I often think about your 100 miles a week regimen.
Just another facet of your life that makes you truly admirable!
Danilo Sese
******
Hi John,
I just wanted to offer my congratulations on your upcoming retirement. It couldn't happen to a more deserving individual. You have been a fixture at the University Club ever since I took up the sport in 1990, thanks to prodding from my dear and former friend Paul Fisher.
You are a major reason why the University Club and it's squash programı is the finest in the Bay Area – perhaps Northern California. I always appreciated the lessons you gave me, and simply being there to answer a question or two or help me out in any fashion. I was fortunate to sell my insurance practice in 2014 and retire at 66, and it was the best move I ever made as I always tell people when asked about retirement, that simply "we are living the dream. I wish you me best of luck and hope that you will be living your dream soon.
Take care,
Jack Graham
******
Another great win by sportsman John Lau.
Dan Arroyo
******
John
A hearty congratulations on your retirement
Now you can find time to get better at squash!
I appreciate what you have done for Cal Squash, the. University Club, NorCal, and most importantly --- MY squash game
While I do remember key advice from lessons, I especially cherish the playing games on the doubles court with you with the ball sailing around the court in new and innovative ways.
I also recall your biog not because you kept reposing the same stories -- but because they were good stories with meaningful lessons
You have much to boast about
All the best,
Rich Morrissey
Rich Morrissey
******
John.
I am sorry I cannot be there on Friday. Thank you for all you tried to do with my squash. Sorry I could never quite get it.
I'll keep trying.
Best wishes for the future,
George Fesus
******
Dear John
On the occasion of your retirement.
I’m sure that you receive many messages from denizens of the squash courts and maybe a few gym rats, but this is one from the undisputed King of the treadmills!
One of the great joys of my day is going to the gym and engaging you in conversation as I pushed the incline up and increased the speed The topics we covered ranged from sports trivia, the current travail 's and past glories of the Giants, the extraordinary run at per by the Warriors, politics --- local and national, world affairs,, exercise regimes, health issues...the list goes on and on and on.
For a jock, you are quite the sage!
I hope you won't be scarce and that you will stop by my “station” from time to engage in spirited and learned conversation.
You will be fondly remembered
Yours,
John Kamm
******
John,
I believe that we met at Alex Eichman's Peninsula Squash Club in San Mateo around 40 years ago. How could the time pass so fast?
You were a dedicated player but had not yet taken up residence as the guru of the squash program at the University Club. I remember sitting in the locker room with you discussing whether you should be the coach of the squash program and I should join the Club.
Lucky for us, both of us made the move. Thank you for all your help with the Rittenhouse, all the times you played when we didn’t have a fourth, and mostly just for being the great supporter and coach that you are.
Best,
Simon Blattner
Simon - It was the Jesterly thing to do - John
******
John,
You have been an inspiration and a dear friend to me and my family. We owe our love of squash to you. Best wishes for retirement well-earned.
David, Jing, Jack and Jennifer Lee
******
John, I’ve known you before you joined the U Club and you have been unfailingly gracious to me and I have deeply admired your professionalism and wisdom.
You were brilliant at client squash and i marveled at your ability to know exactly where the ball would go - it seemed other-worldly.
You will be missed greatly, Prestly, I am in Sydney and can't make the party,
My best wishes go with you.
Graham Taylor
******
All
John's presence in our squash community is far and wide, both with great ability, many time National champion, and great competitor.
Both a gracious winner and when not a winner is always a very positive person.
His coaching is amazing, I have watched John coach, knowing when I listen I will walk away with great nuggets of information, for my own use. The information he passes on has been exceptional to the students.
Many thanks for all the squash events John has run and festivity's at The University Club.
Let's hope John stays close to us so we can draw from his great knowledge in Squash in the NORCAL area.
Frank Schmidt
******
John,
All the very best in your retirement, I appreciate your patience and love for the game, would love to be there with you to celebrate but travel dictates otherwise.
Adrian Doe
******
All:
I first heard of the legend of John Lau at Berkeley in the mid-80's. Word was that John was a star on the Berkeley team who had turned the San Francisco squash scene on its head, in more ways than one! John's brother, Steve, and I played on the Berkeley league team together, allowng me to hear of John's many exploits from a reliable source (I think!).
It was pleasure to finally meet John in person almost 30 years later, when Adrian Doe introduced me to the doubles game at the University Club. John had recently recovered, and we were privileged to see his passion organizing doubles tournaments and playing the occasional game. The best part of being a neophyte loser was John's patient intelligent coaching, which every so often turned into an unexpected win for Adrian and me over far superior and experienced opponents, a testament to John's keen eye and mind.
It is truly an honor to have been touched by John's wonderful personality and to have participated in a small way with his life in squash.
All the best in your retirement, John!
Thanks,
George Jacob
******
Thank you John for making squash fun and for the one-on-one's when you kept reminding me that squash is about '"navigating' one's space on the court; so you can hit the best shot possible'. Thanks for the life and squash lesson.I hope you have a great time in retirement!
Kalyani Iyer
******
John, you have supported the squash habits of a long line of Callanders and a lessons and the time spent together. Thank you so much for your support, encouragement, and friendship.
Ken Callander
******
John,
They all say that you are the greatest teacher of squash in the world. But if that is true, then why is it that after 20 years of WEEKLY lessons from you, I'm still a mediocre player? All your fault!
Time to enjoy resting on your laurels (though I hope we can still get some games in). Your pupil-ettes Rosemary Kendrick and Katharine Kendrick send their best wishes as well.
To many years still ahead!
Best Always,
Steve Kendrick
To this day, I still miss Steve's company and what he meant to me.
John
******
John
I am so sorry to leam of your retirement, I enjoyed so much the chance to play with you filled in to complete our foursome of old transfers from the PU Club, although I have not been visible at the Club since my knee replacement a year ago.
I remember vividly your hardball matches when the PU Club had its court now sady gone forever. They were great matches against younger opponents.
I wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life and hope our paths will cross
Mike Humphreys
******
All
I have been taking lessons from John since my earliest days playing singles at the PU Club in the early 1990s. He has shown the utmost patience - one of John's great qualities – with such a poor student.
Remarkably, through his unique combination of keen observations, memorable analogies, dramatic demonstrations of effective shots and strategies, and fine good humor, John has advanced my game significantly. The most fun of all, thanks to John, has been his instruction in doubles - a whole new and hugely satisfying world for an old guy.
Thank you,, John. Your stories and strategies will live with me forever. You're not just a great teacher, you're a great philosopher, a keen judge of people, and a terrific guy. Your influence on generations of squash players, skilled and raw, young and old, from first team Elies to folks who just were introduced to the game, is incalculable.
Very warmest wishes and best regards,
Peter Harvey
******
John
Thank you for enjoying those cold frosty beers before, during, and after my matches. I can't thank you enough for all of the doubles wisdom you have shared. I hope this is only the beginning of where this great game will take me. I'll never forget to win through the mid-court and we best be seeing you on court for years to come!
Alex Kurth
******
Hi John,
You are a highly revered member of the squash community across North America and beyond.
What a reputation!
I first met you when you became the pro at the University Club. On behalf for those of us who selected you, we say a big thank you for all your years of classy service.
A couple of times with you I will never forget.
I was there when you won the National Doubles Final in Denver. I felt so proud that you were our west coast pro. Another time was when we were in in Pennsylvania just the two of us late at night finding our way home after leaving the Fairmount Club. You went beyond representing the University Club and represented the game with distinction.
Do retire knowing you are the best and enjoy it all.
Ivan Glover
Ivan - very fond of this photo! Episodes like this one is what I'll miss. It contains a thousand words. - John
******
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