Angela Smith (squash player)

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Angela Smith (born 3 July 1953) is a retired English squash player from Stoke-on-Trent. She was the first woman to turn professional in squash and helped change the sport for women.

Career highlights
- Reached the world No. 2 ranking at her peak.
- British champion in 1976 and reached the British Open semifinals eight times.
- Won several major Opens around the world, including the Spanish, Portuguese, Canadian, US, Norwegian, Israeli (six times) and Bermuda Opens.
- Part of Britain’s winning team at the 1979 Women’s World Team Championship and was runner-up in 1981. She was undefeated on international duty for Great Britain in many matches.

Pioneering impact
- Played a key role in opening up professional women’s squash and helped pave the way for others to turn professional.
- Co-founded WISPA (the women’s professional squash association) in 1979, along with other leading players.
- Appeared on early TV shows for women in sport, including Superstars and A Question of Sport.

Coaching and leadership
- Worked to grow squash worldwide, coaching in places such as the Bahamas, Spain, and Hong Kong, and she coached the United States men’s team from 1980 to 1982.
- Helped promote the game in the Middle East (Dubai and Bahrain) and organized many events there.
- Set up and ran squash programs, including an academy in Shanghai, and served as an ambassador for Stoke City FC.

Current roles and interests
- Has held various leadership and ambassador roles in squash and sport.
- Lifelong Stoke City supporter and involved with charities and community programs, including Xpro and the Macari Foundation.