The Manchester Y-Club Rugby Fives, a sport played at the YMCA in Castlefield for 115 years, is under threat of closure as the charity plans to convert its two courts into gym space. The handball game, akin to squash but with a harder ball and protective gloves, has produced national champions but now faces elimination from the North West entirely.
Petition and community response
A petition opposing the closure has garnered 1,800 signatures. David Fox, chair of the Manchester Y-Club Fives Club, stated: "We have 40 members with an age group of 14 to 80. It used to be in Peter Street where the old Y was and has been an integral part of the Y-club over the years." He criticized the lack of consultation, saying the decision was announced in April with a June 30 deadline.
YMCA's justification
Paul Smith, representing the YMCA, explained: "The courts are not very well used compared to other spaces. The fives section is used about eight hours a week... It would be used for additional gym space as a lot of people now for functional training." He noted that the gym serves 950 daily users, with peak times bursting at the seams.
Historical significance and impact
The Y Club has produced champions like Wayne Enstone (23-time National Singles Winner) and Clare Knowles (National Women's Singles Champion 1999–2012). The team has won the National Club Championship 14 times. David Fox warned: "Closing these courts doesn't just affect current members. It eliminates Rugby Fives entirely from the North West of England, ending a sport with roots in this country going back to the 1800s." The next nearest courts are in Derby.
Alternative proposals rejected
The Fives Club suggested multi-use of the courts for activities like table tennis, yoga, or tai chi, but the YMCA deemed it impractical due to accessibility and flooring issues. David Fox argued: "The usage figures don't tell the full story. The courts were closed for a combined 2 years and 4 months over the last 7 years due to flooding and COVID lockdowns." He added that the courts were originally funded by Sport England and the Rugby Fives Association.
Charitable obligations questioned
David Fox stated: "The Y-club is a profit-making business to fund the YMCA... That's what makes us a bit cross - it is part of our community club." He called on the board to halt the closure and engage in proper consultation, emphasizing that the charity's objectives include advancing amateur sport.
