THE ROYAL MARINES

Squash
 2

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION TO SQUASH 3

Student Notes Teacher Notes SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SHEET 4

UNIT 1 INTRODUCING GRIP, DRIVES AND SIMPLE GAMES 5
A. STRAIGHT DRIVES (BEGINNERS) 6
B. STRAIGHT VOLLEYS (BEGINNERS) 8
C. SERVICE (BEGINNERS) 9
Prepared for The Royal Navy in association with The Squash Rackets
Association and produced by Education and Youth Limited, London. D. BOAST (BEGINNERS) 11

If there is any support you feel The Royal Navy can give regarding this E. DROP (BEGINNERS) 12
project please contact 0870 333 0423. F. LOB (BEGINNERS) 13
UNIT 2 THE GAME: STUDENT NOTES (BEGINNERS) 15
Acknowledgements
SKILLS, DRILLS AND GAMES: STAFF/STUDENT NOTES
These notes have been compiled by the late Claire Chapman with the (PLAYERS) 17
assistance of:
Jan Graydon, BA BSc PhD Senior Lecturer PNL Mental Preparation A. STARTER GAME 18
Vivian Grisogono, MA (Oxon) MCSP Injuries in Squash
B. PLAYING THE CROSS-COURT SHOT 20
Craig Sharp, BVMSK MRCVS PhD (Director Olympic Medical Centre)
Physical Conditioning C. VARIATIONS ON THE VOLLEY 21
Joy Alexander Hall, B Ed Lecturer (PE) Sheffield University
Barry Mason, BSc Devonport HS D. VARIATIONS ON THE SERVE 22
Jane Poynder, former SRA National Coach E. ATTACKING WITH THE BOAST 23
Paul Wright, former SRA National Coach
The Squash Rackets Association F. ATTACKING SHOTS AT THE FRONT 24
G. DEFENSIVE PLAY 25
Editor: P. Edwards M.A.
H. VARYING THE PACE 26
UNIT 3 THE GAME 27
UNIT 4 PHYSICAL CONDITIONING 33
UNIT 5 MENTAL PREPARATION 37
UNIT 6 INJURIES IN SQUASH 38
UNIT 7 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND 41
UNIT 8 STRUCTURE OF THE SPORT 43
UNIT 9 CURRENT ISSUES IN SPORT: SQUASH 45
UNIT 10 SQUASH IN THE OLYMPICS 48
 3
Introduction To Squash
Squash is a game which is gaining rapidly in popularity as an optional
activity in the 4th, 5th and 6th years at school. It is a relatively easy
game to learn and fun to play at any level of ability. The equipment
needed is not expensive and the only problem may be the cost of
court fees at clubs and centres. Most clubs have courts which are little
used during the day and many are willing to quote lower costs to
encourage use by schools at off-peak times.
The latest figures (1999) indicate that there are approximately 8,200
courts and 11/2 million squash players in the United Kingdom.
An estimated 25% of these players are women.
World wide there are thought to be 15 million squash players and the
game is played in more than 55 countries.
Learning to play squash is in some ways the same process as learning
a foreign language.
The skills are the basic vocabulary, while the drills and tactics form a
grammatical framework to fit the strokes into the game.
With a low level of skill it is possible to play a very enjoyable game
with a partner of similar standard, but with higher levels the
possibilities become almost endless and the whole game much more
interesting.
How you teach the game will depend on your teaching philosophy and
these notes will supply you with the information you need to teach the
game effectively.
The following are two suggested teaching models.

Warm Up
(details in Physical Conditioning page 33)

Skill based Understanding based

Introduce and assess the shot
Explain and demonstrate
Simple practice, hitting without
movement
Practice with more movement
or difficulty
Sequence of shots in game
type situation
Game — emphasis on stroke
A game modified to suit ability
Game breaks down? Why?
Lack of understanding?
Lack of appropriate technique?
Explain and teach required
technique
Practice skill in simple drill or
game
Return to game

Cool Down
Analysis and Summary
 4
Skills Development Sheet

The beginning stage of learning Squash is the exploratory phase,

where the player is attempting to learn the correct sequence of
movements of all the basic skills e.g. the drive, the volleys and the
service. A number of errors may be made and players will need
feedback to recognise and correct these errors.
At the intermediate stage a player will be able to play most strokes,
but not always with the correct use in a game situation. The player will
be more consistent, balanced and mobile.
At the advanced stage the player will execute all the skills
automatically and will concentrate more on the placement of the shot
and on how to vary and disguise shots.

Name of Module Squash

Basic Skills The drive, the volleys, the service, the boast, the drop, the lob (pages 6-16)

Game-play Skills Playing straight length front and back. Playing cross-court shorts. Variations
on the volley and the serve. Accuracy and consistency of shots (page 22)

Tactical Skills Attack: Vary pace and angles of shots – boast, drops, short kills
Defense: Returning shot at length, good return of service, reach good
position in mid-court. Vary pace, deception, attack opponents
strengths and weaknesses. Speed to front of court. Cutting ball off
early (pages 24 and 25)

Training Skills Stamina, speed, strength, flexibility skills (page 35) mental preparations
(page 39)

Rules Playing, scoring, service, service faults. Hitting an opponent with ball.
Hitting yourself with the ball, time, officials and their function. Calls of play,
scoring system, interference (pages 29-31)
 5

Unit 1
Introducing Grip, Drives and Simple Games

Figure. 1. Grip Figure. 2. Forehand Drive

 6
A. Straight Drives (Beginners)
The drive played straight to a good length is the foundation of the
game. The shot should bounce for the second time near the back
wall and travel very close to the side wall.
Make pupils aware of SAFETY
i. Danger of swinging rackets
ii. Take care when hitting ball
iii. Knock before entering court
iv. Do not leave balls on court floor

Organisation
Teaching points/Problems
A1. Figure. Bounce ball on
racket (forehand)
Stationary and moving
Target 5-10-15-20 shots
A1. i. Watch and hit
underside of ball
ii. Do not hit ball too high

A2. Bounce ball on backhand

side
Target 5-10-15-20 shots
A2. Knuckles point to the
ceiling

A3. Bounce ball on alternate

sides A1
Target 5-10-15-20 shots
A3. i. Can you keep the same
grip for both shots?
ii. ‘Shake hands’ with the
handle
iii. Note ‘V’ between thumb
and first finger
iv. Line up point of ‘V’ with
left corner of shaft
v. Thumb across back of
handle against 2nd. finger
vi. Space between 1st and
2nd fingers (pistol grip)
Forehand Backhand
A4. Figure. Forehand rallies
to side wall
Target 10 shots — Record
A4. i. Body sideways to
direction of shot
ii. Let the ball bounce
iii. Stay close to the wall

A5. Figure. Backhand rallies

to side wall
Target 10 shots — Record
Figure. 3. Backhand Drive
A5. i. Sideways position
ii. Keep wrist firm
iii. Grip further up the handle
if there is a problem making
contact A4 A5

A6. Figure. A Underarm feed
B Drive forehand to A
B1 Drive backhand to A
C Practise rally to side wall
Change after 5 shots
C-A, A-B, B-C
Change sides of court
A6. i. Feeders throw gently onto
front wall
ii. SAFETY Feed must be straight
back towards feeder
iii. SAFETY Do not hit from
centre of court
iv. Watch the ball as it is thrown
by feeder
v. Watch and hit underside of
ball
vi. Check grip, position and
balance
vii. Hit ball opposite leading leg
A7. Figure. Underarm feed or
teacher racket feed
B-F drive forehand, play shadow
shot on backhand, return to
back quarter
Try to hit past short line
If pupils feed, change feeder
after 6 shots
How many shots out of 6
attempts go past short line –
Record
A7. i. Run-stop-hit
ii. High, early backswing
iii. Throwing action
iv. Follow through high
v. Move down centre and then
step to side
vi. Keep comfortable distance
away from ball
A8. Figure. Same practice on
backhand side
A8. i. Back of right shoulder to
face front wall on backswing
ii. Keep wrist firm
A9. Figure. Rally started by
player A, succeeding players hit
the ball in turn
Players try to keep the shots on
the forehand side and at the
level of the short line
A9. i. Keep away from and to
side of ball
ii. SAFETY Move quickly out of
the way
iii. SAFETY Watch the ball all the
time
iv. SAFETY Take care not to hit if
another player is near
A10. Same practice on backhand
side
7
A11. Figure. A Feeds underarm
B Hits forehand and returns to
‘T’
C Feeds underarm
B1 B B Hits backhand and returns to
C A
‘T’ B
E Counts shots and scores
A A D and F field and return ball to D E F
feeder.
4 shots each and then rotate one
A11
place anticlockwise.
Score 1 point for hit to correct
side of court.
2 points for hit behind short line.
C C A11. Tactics
Return to ‘T ‘between shots (just
A6 behind join of short and half
court line)
i. Keep grip the same A12(a)
ii. Racket face open
A12. Figure (a)
C B 2 players rally in turn
3 attempts
Score number of consecutive
shots
Figure (b)
D With care you could use the side
A walls for this practice.
One pair rally in front of short A12(b)
E line, one pair behind short line.
A12. i. Watch the ball being hit
by partner
F
A13. Figure. Team game in 3/4 A1
A7
court Group divide into 2 teams
A1 serves from left to B1 on
other side of court. Players
complete rally in shaded area of
court and try to win the rally A2 A3 B2 B3 A13
(scores 1 point). Winner stays A15. Mini game in 3/4 court
B C on (can only win 3 consecutive 1 v 1 to 3 points
points, then change with player Only serve from left side
2).
Loser changes with player 2 who Rules
serves. (i.-iv. ) as above
A D Winning team is first to 9 points. v. Only score with service
vi. If Receiver wins the rally,
A13. i. SAFETY Ensure other she/he wins the right to serve.
players stay in safe position in
E
back corner. A16. Same game, serving from
Tactics right side
Hit the ball close to side wall and
F A17. Mini game in full court
to back of court on long side Play to 5 points
A8 Move to ‘T’ between shots Other players outside court can
ii. Allow 2 attempts at serve score.
iii. Allow bounce/hit serve A17. Tactics. Hit the ball away
iv. Repeat serve if receiver can from opponent
not return serve. Try to get ball to back corners
Rules
Rules
Identify court lines (i.-vi.) as above
Lose rally if ball: vii. Players toss for right to
i. Bounces twice serve
ii. Hits the TIN viii. Serving player chooses
iii. Goes OUT – i.e. on or above which side to serve from
A9
the out of court lines ix. If server wins the rally and
iv. Play LET (replay rally) if scores a point, she/he must
players obstruct each other then serve from the other side.
A14. Same game with service
from right box. Right back
quarter out of play.

B. Straight Volleys (Beginners)
The straight-length volley is often needed to return the serve, or cut
the ball off before it reaches the back of the court.
Figure. 1 Forehand (a)
Organisation
Teaching Points/Problems
B1. How do you return the shot
which is not going to hit the
floor in front of the short line?
B1. Figure. Rally in front of
short line
Practices to improve contact and
length on the volley.
B2. Figure. Forehand volley rally
to side walls.
Target 5-10-15-20 shots.
B2. i. Same sideways position
as drives
ii. Short backswing
iii. Punchy shot
iv. Racket head above the hand
v. Rally about 2m from wall
B3. Backhand volley rally
B3. i. Keep wrist firm
ii. Back of hand facing the front
wall through the shot
B4. Figure. A Under or overarm
feed
B Volley forehand
B1 Volley backhand
C Volley rally to side walls
Change after 5 shots
A-B B-C C-A
B4. i. Feeders throw above
service line. Feed must be
straight.
ii. SAFETY Do not hit from
centre of court
iii. Open racket face
iv. Watch and hit underside of
ball
v. Grip further down handle if
problems making contact
vi Follow through in direction of
shot
8
(b) Figure. 2 Backhand
B5. Figure. A Under or overarm
feed or teacher racket feed.
B-F Volley forehand play shadow
shot on backhand, return to
back quarter.
C B
Try to hit past short me. Change
after 6 shots if pupils feed. A
F
Score points – 1 for contact D E
2 for shot behind short line.
B1 B5
B5. i. Feed needs to be above
Forehand Backhand the service line and straight.
Move nearer front wall for
players having difficulty in
making contact
ii. Reach for the ball, hit slightly
ahead of leading shoulder
iii. Run-stop-hit
iv. Hit above service line
v. Follow through high
B6. Same practice on backhand
side
B6. i. Back of right shoulder
facing front wall on backswing.
B7. Figure. A Feeds high (under
or overarm)
B Hits straight forehand volley
B2
C Feeds high (under or overarm)
B Hits straight backhand volley C A
B
D+F Field ball and return to
feeder
D E F
E Counts shots and scores
4 shots each, then rotate anti- B7
clockwise.
Score points
– 1 for hit to correct side of
court
– 2 for hit beyond short line.
A B1 B A B7. Tactics
Return to ‘T’ between shots
i. Move feeders forward if
C C
players have difficulty in hitting
B4 the volley

B8. Figure. Rally to front wall or,
with care, 2 pairs against the
side wall.
2 players rally, hitting the ball
high, and trying to volley.
3 attempts
Score number of consecutive
shots and score volleys.
B9. Figure. Mini-game 3/4 court
A serves to B from left box.
Allow players to stand further
forward it necessary and have 2
or 3 attempts. Allow bounce/hit
serve.
Players try to hit high and volley.
A ball hitting the floor in the
clear area is out.
Score to 5 points.
B9. Ensure other players stay in
safe position in clear back
corner
Tactics
Hit ball close to side walls and
to back of court on long side
Move back to ‘T’ between
shots.
Rules
Lose rally if ball:
i. Bounces twice
ii. Hits TIN
iii. Goes OUT – (on or above out
of court line)
iv. Play LET (replay rally) if
players obstruct each other
v. Only score when serving
B10. Same game serving from
right box.
B11. Mini game in full court.
Other players wait outside.
Play to 5 points.
B11. Tactics
Hit ball away from opponent.
Rules
i-v. As above.
vi. Players toss to decide who
serves first.
vii. Serving player chooses
which side to serve from.
viii. If server wins the rally and
scores a point, she/he must
then serve from the other side.
9
C. Service (Beginners)
The best service should force a difficult defensive return, often on the
volley and close to the side wall.
A lob serve is the easiest type for beginners.
B8
Lob serve from right box Lob serve from left box
A
Introducing the serve
and service rules
B9 Organisation
Teaching Points/Problems
C1. Game in 3/4 of the court to
3 or 5 points
Spare players score and observe
C1. i. Can a correct serve be
delivered?
ii. Does the serve force
opponent to volley? Why not?
iii. What kind of serve is
needed? More height/width
iv. Where does/should receiver
stand to return the serve?
Reminder of playing rules
i. Single bounce
ii. ‘Out’ – ‘Tin’
iii. ‘Let’ for obstruction
iv. Only score on service
Practices to improve contact
and height on serve
C2. Figure. Players hit to side
wall and catch their own shot.
10 hits.
C2. i. Ball is thrown up and hit
ii. Watch and hit underside of
ball
iii. Keep backswing fairly short
iv. Swing slowly
v. Move grip further up racket
handle if player has difficulty in
making contact and stand closer
to the wall
C2

C3. Figure. Players A hit to side
wall
Partners B catch and return ball
to server
5 hits, and change with partner
C3. i. Hit upwards gently
ii. Players at back of court can
usually (if there is a solid side
wall) hit above the out line
iii. Open racket face
C4. Figure. Players A hit from
service box
Players B catch from behind
short line
Players C hit and catch own shot
to side walls
5 shots, then rotate C-A-B-C
C4. i. Hit above service line
ii. Move players forward if they
have difficulty in making contact
C5. Figure. Players A hit from
short line
Catchers B try to catch the shot
Fielders C return ball to A
5 shots then rotate C-B-A-C
C5. i. Catchers may jump but
not move outside service box.
ii. Hit high and gently to front
wall.
C6. Figure. Serve from left box
move across to collect the ball
and return to left back quarter
6 serves each
How many into back quarter?
– Record
C6. i. Line shoulders, hips and
feet with direction of serve
ii. Aim a metre or two above the
service line, at a point about mid-
way between 1/2 court line and
service box
C7. Figure. Serve from right
hand box
C7. i. Aim to middle of front wall
just below out line
Rules
i. Ball must be thrown up and hit
ii. When the ball is struck the
server must have one foot (or part
of foot) inside the lines of the
service box – no part of that foot
may touch the line.
iii. Service must hit the front wall
before any other part of the court
iv. Ball must hit front wall above the
service line and below the out line
v. The serve (unless volleyed) must
reach the floor inside the lines of
the opposite back quarter (shaded)
Practices to improve length and
direction of return
10
C8. Figure. Serve from left box
A and return straight
Player A serves, player B hits
straight return
Player A moves to receive A
B
position
A Player B returns to left back
B
corner
Player C serves etc CDE
B 6 returns each Serve from left - straight return
How many behind short line? – C8
A record.
C8. i. Serve moves to ‘T’ after
serve
B ii. Servers with difficulty in
making contact or correct length
C3 should stand further forward.
iii. Allow at least 2 serves
iv. Receiver stands about a racket
length outside the back corner of
the service box
A B B A v. Receiver should face nearest
front corner and watch the server
hit the ball
vi. Keep the head of the racket
high
C4 vii. Watch and hit underside of ball
viii. Return may be drive or volley
and should be to a length.
C9. Continue rally in 3/4 court
(shaded area).
A A A ball hitting the floor in the clear
B B
area is out
A
Rally winner scores point
C C B
Keep individual scores
Rotate players after each rally
C5
Winner is first player to six Serve from right
points. straight return C10
C9. Waiting players stay in safe
back quarter (clear area).
C10. Figure – Serve from right
box and return straight
C10. i. On the left side of court
receiver should play a backhand
Serve from left box C6 so that they keep a position in the
centre of the court and are not
plastered against the side wall.
ii. The serve which touches the
Rules
side wall may bounce out into
court. Receiver must move away i. Playing and service rules
to allow room for the shot.
C11. Continue rally in 3/4 court.
C12. Return to 3/4 court game
Serve from right box C7 C14. Game to 9 points
Serve from left box
Spare players learn to score
5 points
Complete Bronze Star Award
C12. Try to force a defensive
C14. Summary of Tactics
return with the service.
i. Return to 'T'
C13. 3/4 court game with serve ii. Hit away from opponent
from right box iii. Watch ball behind
Game to 5 points iv. Straight length to back of
Allow 2 serves court
 11
D. Boast (Beginners) D1. Game in 3/4 court
Up to 5 points
The standard boast is played to hit the nearest side wall and rebounds Spare players score and
to the opposite corner of the front wall. The boast can be played as an observe
attacking shot with the opponent behind and on the same side of the
court or as a defensive shot to return a ball from deep in the back D1. i. What shot can be played
corner. to reach the opposite front
corner when opponent is at
the back?
Introducing the Boast ii. How to return a ball which
Organisation/Teaching Points/Problems lands deep in the back corner?
D2. Figure. Boast and collect
the ball
In turn, players throw the ball
gently to side wall and after
bounce on floor, play boast.
Move to front corner to collect
the ball and return to back.
D2. i. Stand in sideways D2
position but turned more
towards the back corner.
ii. The ball is struck when on a
line with the leading foot and
hit to side wall 1/2 to 1 metre
ahead of the player.
iii. The ball should hit the front
wall and the opposite side wall
very low and bounce only a
short distance from the front
wall.
D3. Figure. Players try to
reach the ball and play a
straight drop before returning
to the back of the court.
D3. i. Open racket face and
follow through high to lift ball
up the side wall
ii. Angle required to reach the D3
opposite front corner.
iii. Cross court and boast.
D4. Figure. Teacher or pupil A
feeds a cross court shot (front
wall – side wall)
B boasts and returns to back
court.
Change after 8 shots if pupil
feeds. A
Each player hits 6 shots B
How many out of 6? Record.
D4. i. Keep away from the
D4
ball.

Figure. 1. Backhand Boast


Serve – Straight Length – Boast
D5. Figs. (a) (b) (c)
A Serves
B Drives straight
A Boasts
C Collects ball and serves to A
D5. i. Simple serve – to make
straight return easier
ii. Move to ‘T’ after serve
iii. Drive to service box – not full
length
iv. Move away quickly behind
incoming player after the drive.
D6. 3/4 Court game
5 points
Bonus point if rally won with a
boast, whether player is serving
or receiving.
12
E. Drop (Beginners)
The drop is a short shot played to draw the opponent forward or play
a winner when he/she is at the back of the court.
A
Although easier to play from the front of the court, care must be taken
that the opponent is well back in the court when the drop is played.
B
DC D5(a)
A serves Introducing the drop
Organisation/Teaching Points/Problems
E1. Figure. Game in 1/2 court
Play in shaded area 6 points
A (American – point per rally
scoring).
Start with drive – player must be
B able to return first shot
DC D5(b) Any waiting players observe and
B drives straight analyse successful shots
With a group of accurate
players, you might consider one
pair playing on backhand side at
the same time.
SAFETY.
C E1. i. Players must move around
each other.
A ii. Hit and move away to centre
of court. E1
CB D5(c) iii. SAFETY Take care not to hit
A boasts C collects ball the ball if opponent is in front.
iv. What shots do you need to
hit the ball away from your B A
opponent in this long, narrow
court area?
Drop and lob.
v. What problems occur when
both players play short shots?
– obstruction
E2. Figure. Players attempt
controlled short rally
Use front and back walls
A. C. Forehand
B. D. Backhand C D
3 rallies then rotate
A-B-C-D-A E2
E2. i. The shot requires good
control and should be played
from a low, balanced, sideways
position. C B
ii. The straight drop should stay
close to the side wall and A A
bounce near the front wall.
E3. Figure. A Feeds underarm
B Plays forehand drop
C Plays backhand drop
E3. i. Slow stroke with the
racket face open and a shorter
follow through
ii. The ball is hit just ahead of
the leading leg and aimed to hit
the front wall low.
E3

E4. Figure. A Underarm feed or
teacher racket feed.
Players move in turn from the T’
Play a forehand drop.
Play a shadow shot on backhand.
Return to back quarter.
E4. i. Run-stop-hit
ii. Watch and hit underside of ball
iii. Keep wrist firm
E5. Same practice for backhand
drop
E6. Figures. A Feeds underarm
B Hits forehand drop and returns
to T’
C Feeds underarm
B Hits backhand drop
D Counts shots and scores
Play 4 shots and rotate
A-B-C-D-A
Score drops within a suitable
target
E6. i. Return to ‘T’
ii. Hit front wall first
E7. Figure. A player or teacher
feeds with a boast.
Each player in turn moves from
the ‘T’ to play a drop shot
Change after 6 shots if pupils
feed
How many out of 6 shots into
target area. Record.
E7. i. Move down the centre of
the court and then towards side
wall
ii. Keep well away from side wall
if the boast goes front wall/side
wall.
E8. Game in 1/2 court (side) Use
both sides if players are accurate
enough for it to be SAFE.
E8. i. Drop when in front of
opponent.
ii. Move away quickly.
Rules
i. Hitting your opponent with
the ball
ii. Function and calls of market
and referee
E9 Game
Full game to 9 points Spare
players mark and referee.
E9. i. When is the dropshot
useful?
ii. When does the drop get you
into trouble?
13
F. Lob (Beginners)
The lob is a high, slow cross-court or straight shot to the back of the
court, usually played from the front-of-the-court, to allow the player
time to return to a good position. The shot slows the game down and
keeps the opponent at the back of the court. The lob is easier and
more often played as a cross-court shot in the game, but with a group
of players, they get more chance to hit the ball if the early practices
use a straight lob.
A
Introducing the Lob
Organisation/Teaching Points/Problems
F1. Game in 1/2 court
Use both sides of court if
players are safe and accurate.
E4
F1. i. Players must move
around each other
ii. SAFETY Take care not to hit
the ball if opponent is in front.
iii. Hit and move away to centre
of court
iv. How can you get your
opponent to the back of this
long, thin court?
v. How can you give yourself
time to move back to a good
C A position after moving forward to
B return the drop shot?
F2. Figure. A. B throw gentle
underarm to front wall. After
bounce try to lob ball over own
D head to partner at back of court.
A Forehand
E6 B Backhand
C Field and throw ball back to
partner B A
Change places after 3 shots
Change sides of court
C C
F2. i. Get racket under the ball
ii. Hit the ball high over own F2
A head to back of court
iii. Hit softly
F3. Figure. A Feeds underarm
E7 B Lobs forehand
C Lobs backhand
Change places with partner after C B
5 shots
Change sides of court
F3. i. Reach forward to hit the ball
ii. Keep racket face open A A
iii. Ball should rise higher than the
out line and drop near the back of F3
the court
 14
F4. Figure. A Underarm feeds or F9. The same practice on the
teacher racket feeds backhand
Players B-C-D-E move in turn
from the 'T’ F10. Figure. A plays backhand
Play a forehand lob B boast. Other players move in
C turn to play cross court forehand
Play a shadow shot on backhand
and return to back quarter A lob
F = Fielder. Catches and returns D E F F10. Backhand boast should be
ball to feeder. F4 played high, softly and from
If players feed, change feeder around the short line
after 3 shots
Score – 1 point if ball lands F11. Same practice on opposite
behind service box side of court
1 point it ball goes over feeder’s F12. Full game to 9 points.
head Spare players mark and referee
2 points for both
F12. i. Hit ball away from
F4. i. Lift the ball opponent
ii. Bend knees to get under the ii. When to drop? A
ball iii. When to lob?
iii. Sideways position but turned F10
slightly more towards front
corner
iv. Hit when well ahead of
leading leg
F5. Same practice on backhand
side
F5. i. Lift the ball up the front of
the wall
ii. The shot must be high enough
to prevent the opponent from
volleying in mid court
F6. Figure. A Feeds underarm
B Lobs forehand and return to T’
C Feeds underarm
B Lobs backhand
D Counts shots and scores B
4 shots, then rotate
F6. Return to ‘T’ between shots C A
D
F7. The same set up can be F6
used for the cross-court lob with
the spare player acting as fielder
to retrieve balls and return them
to feeders.
F7. i. Hit the ball when further
forward
ii. Lift high up front wall
iii. Ball should drop in back
corner
F8. Figure. A Feeds underarm B
Lobs forehand cross-court over
wall
C.D.E. Stand on short line to E D C
form a wall
B
F Catches and scores
Score – 1 point for lob over wall
to catcher A
Rotate. F
F8
F8. Aim lob to touch side wall
near back line of service box and
drop in back corner
 15
Unit 2
The Game
Student Notes (Beginners)
Squash is similar in some respects to tennis. The server sets the ball
in motion; it is returned by the opponent and kept in play by
continually being hit on the front wall without it:
(i) bouncing twice on the floor
(ii) hitting the tin
(iii) being hit out of court; this includes touching the out lines
which are red
(iv) being carried or hit twice

Out line

Referee and Marker

Service line

Tin
Out-of-court line

Short line

Service box
Half court line

Scoring
A game is won by a player who first reaches 9 points. Only the server
may add a point to her/his score through winning a rally. If the
opponent wins the rally, she/he earns the right serve, and DOES NOT
add a point to her/his score. If the score becomes 8-all, then the
receiver must state whether she/he wishes the game to be played
to 9 (set 1) or 10 points (set 2).

Service
Server The server must have at least part of one foot completely within
the service box and not touching any line when the ball is struck
Receiver otherwise a foot fault is called. The service must hit the front wall
above the service line and bounce back into the opponent’s major
Figure 2 Serve and receive square (opposite back quarter). Each time the server wins the rally,
positions serve from right box
and therefore the point, she/he must serve from the other side.
Figure 2.

Service Faults
The server loses the rally and the right to serve when:
(i) There is a foot fault
(ii) The ball touches the floor or wall before the server hits it
(iii) The ball fails to hit the front wall before any other part of the court
(iv) The ball hits the front wall on or below the service line
(v) The ball (unless volleyed) fails to land in the opposite back quarter
(vi) The ball hits the tin or goes out of court
(vii) The server misses the ball or hits it twice
 16
Safety
Being hit by the ball is painful and can be very dangerous. These
points will help to keep the game safe;
(i) Never swing the racket if another player is close
(ii) Never hit the ball if there is a player in front of you
(iii) Always knock before opening the court door. Look to see if a
player is near the door if there is a viewing panel
(iv) Do not leave squash balls on the court floor
The Ball
There are 4 speeds of squash balls. Faster balls (white, red, blue) are
easier for beginners because they bounce more.
On colder courts the ball bounces less, so faster balls need to be
used.
Blue dot – Fast
Red dot – Medium
White dot – Slow
Yellow dot – Very slow – match ball used for competitions
Tactics
You should be able to reach any shot if you are standing at the ‘T’
position in the centre of the court. Therefore, you should recover to
the centre of the court as quickly as possible after playing each stroke.
Essentially your aim is to control the centre of the court during a rally,
keeping your opponent running from side to side, or back and
forward. To do this you need to hit your shots away from the centre of
the court, and away from your opponent. The shaded area shows the
target area for your shots. Figure. 3/4

Figure 3 X=’T’ position 1 metre Figure 4 Target area for shots

behind short line (shaded)

Rules (Some essential rules simplified for the beginner. For

further details check the full up-to-date rules of the game).
1. Lets and Strokes. In general if you and your opponent get in
each other’s way, or are unsure whether a shot was good or not, a
‘Let’ should be played. (The rally is played again). However, if a
player is prevented from playing a winner, she/he should be
awarded the rally. The players must make every effort to get out of
the way after playing the stroke, and the rally should be awarded
to her/his opponent if she/ he does not do so.
2. Hitting your Opponent with the Ball: If your shot hits your
opponent on its way to the front wall, you win the rally. If it hits
her/him on its way to or from the side or back wall, you play a let.
 17
Skills, drills and games Developing shots and tactics
Staff/Student Notes (Players)
As players improve and master basic strokes and tactics, some of the Objectives
variations and developments can be practiced. A. Play straight length from front and back (include movement to front
The greatest difference between a school-level player and a top and back)
International is that one can hit the required shot sometimes, but the B. Playing the cross-court shot
other can do this all the time and from any position on the court. C. Variations on the volley – short
D. Variations on the serve
Achieving a higher level can mostly be done by working on themes E. Attacking with the boast
(e.g. 'playing straight’, 'defensive play’ etc), using sequences of shots F. Attacking shots at the front – drops, short kills
in much the same way that you might practise a few bars of a piece of G. Defensive play
music many times and then put it back into the whole piece – H. Varying the pace
hopefully much improved.
Further objectives to develop the game might be:
There is still a need sometimes to go back to the simple feeding Accuracy of shot
situations used for beginners to work on problems with the technique Consistency of shot
of a shot. Deception
Attacking opponent’s strengths or weaknesses
Check teaching points in beginner section.
Speed to the front of court
Many of the beginner practices can be adapted by introducing smaller Cutting the ball off early
target areas, increasing the number or reducing the time between
Some objectives will need more than one session to develop
shots to work at a higher level.
thoroughly and the following format can be used:
The three-person practices using two feeders and two balls with one
Warm up
hitter can be speeded up to increase pressure on the player.
Organise a game to illustrate the theme
To improve quality and increase interest, practices can be scored as a
Game breaks down – analyse problems
game once a rally can be maintained for several shots. Define the area
a) technique
into which the shot must go and score point per rally.
b) understanding
Demonstrate as and when necessary
Scheme of work for better players Practise elements in simple form
Aims Combine elements in a sequence of shots
1. Develop the ability to choose, play, and vary shots to achieve higher
levels of success. Increase movement or accuracy required
2. Understand tactics needed in a variety of situations Conditioned game using theme
3. Understand and apply the rules of the game
4. Understand and organise competitions Cool down and summary
5. Pass the SRA Gold Star Award
Information to achieve aims 3 and 4 has been given in the section on
rules and is assessed in theory and practice in work sheets. Lessons for better players
Tasks required for the Gold Award are marked* A. Straight length from front and back

Tactical points are noted (T) (T) Weak shots from the back of the court usually lead to loss of the
rally.
(T) Players must be able to hit a good length and width from the front
and the back of the court.
(T) The ability to counter attack from the back of the court and return
length with length is essential.
 18
A. Starter game
Players rally in pairs in half (side) the court, trying to play all shots
behind short line. SAFETY Only use both sides of the court if players
are accurate and well controlled. Record length of rally.
Problems will occur, particularly from the back of the court. Discuss
and practice.
Points to note
Movement on the court
The basic sideways position needs to be the same for the drive from
the back as it is for the drive from the front of the court.
Keep well away from the ball (racket length)
(T) Movement should be up or down the centre of the court, then
move to the side.
Figure. Movement on the court
(T) Aim the length from the front of the court into the service box.
Exaggerate the length from the back to make sure the ball goes deep,
by trying to hit the back wall first and bounce into the area behind the
service box.
As performance improves, the practices can be scored/timed to give
feedback and improve quality. Set a time or number of shots and
record the number of shots into the target area.
Check teaching points for the shots.
B
A Prepare for the shot with an early backswing.
A3.1 A feeds short, low shot

Practices
A1. Solo rally of consecutive shots which all bounce behind the short
line. As accuracy improves the target area can be reduced so that all
the shots land in the service box or into a thin corridor chalked on the
B floor.
A2. Overhit drives. Solo rally of consecutive drives played to hit the
A back wall first and high enough so that they can be hit after bouncing
A3.2 B drives straight on the floor.
A3 Figure. Player feeds short shot for partner to drive to length. A
small (A4) piece of card placed in the back corner of the service box
makes a good target to aim at.
A4. Player feeds shot into the service box for partner to drive or
volley to length. Aim to hit back wall and land in area behind service
box.
A5. Figure. Long and short – 3 shot sequences for 2 players of 2
straight length shots and 1 short shot, using 1 side of court.
Figure. A5.

A
B B
A A
B drives straight (forehand) A drives straight (forehand) B drops straight (forehand)
 19
A6. in 3 s, two feeders with a ball each. Player A feeds short, player B
hits straight length, player C feeds into service box, player B hits
straight length. Score.
Figure. A6

B
C
B B C
A C A A A
A feeds short ball B drives straight C feeds into service box B drives straight

A7. Drive and boast. One player boasts for partner to drive straight.
Target 10 shot rally – Record
Figure. A7.

B
B

B
A A A B A
A boasts B drives A boasts B drives

A8. 2 Drives and boast – 3 shot sequence of two straight length shots
and boast. This makes each player hit one length from the front and
one from the back of the court.
Figure. A8.

B
A B
A A
A boasts (forehand) B drives (backhand) A drives (backhand)

A9. Conditioned game where one player returns every shot with a
straight length.
 20
B. Playing the cross-court shot
(T) Cross-court shots need to be played with care as they go through
the centre of the court and if played at the wrong time or to the wrong
place can easily be cut off by the opponent.
Starter game
Play a game trying to keep opponent behind you. Use standard
scoring and rules.
Boast and Cross Court Drives
Analyse
a) if cross court shots are being played unintentionally
b) are they cut off by opponent – why?
Points to note
The ball should be hit when slightly further forward (approximately on
a line between front foot and nearest front corner)
B (T) Most cross-court shots should hit the side wall on a level with the
A back line of the service box and die away in the back corner.
A boasts (forehand)
(T) When opponent is well forward in the court, the shot should be
wider and hit the side wall further forward.

Practices
B
B1. Figure. Player for partner to drive cross court. Aim for side wall
near back line of service box.
A
B2. Figure. Boast – cross-court – straight length. This three-shot
B drives cross court (backhand)
sequence occurs constantly in the game in various different forms and
is a development of one used in the beginners section (D.5.) The
Figure. B1. cross-court shot may be either a drive, a lob or the service and the
straight length may be played either as a drive or a volley.
Figure. B2.

B B Cross-court volley game

A
A A
A boasts B drives cross court A plays straight length

B3. Boast and optional drive. Player boasts for partner to drive either
straight or cross court. Progress to scoring as a game.
B4. Figure. Cross-court volley game. Point per rally scoring to 10 B A
points. Players serve alternately. All shots are aimed into the opposite
back quarter and must be volleyed. The rally is lost when the ball: A volleys (forehand)
i) hits the tin or is out of court
ii) lands outside the opposite back quarter
iii) hits the floor in the player’s own back quarter
B5. Straight and cross court volleys. Player feeds high straight shot
for partner to volley either straight or cross court.
B6. Conditioned game with one player having to play all shots behind
the short line.
B A
B volleys (backhand)

Figure. B4.
 21
C. Variations on the volley
When a reasonable standard has been achieved with length volleys,
work can start on the short volley played straight or cross court.
(T) This shot can be the source of many errors as well as winners and
must be used with care.

Starter game
Long/short volley game. Figure. Player feeds a high straight shot and
partner can choose to volley long or short. Both long and short volleys
have to be played to target areas and points are scored for successful
shots.

B
B A A
A B B A
A feeds high shot B volleys straight A feeds high straight shot B volleys short

Analyse error rate on long and short volleys.

Points to note (short volley)
Use a short slow hit to reduce pace and aim for a point low on the
front wall, near the side wall.
Racket must be taken up high and early above the ball on the
backswing.
Played with an open racket to apply backspin to the ball.
The cross-court shot should be taken earlier and aimed to hit front
wall and then the side wall very low.

Practices
C1. Solo rally of consecutive length volleys from behind the short
line. Record.
C2. Player feeds a high straight shot for partner to volley short and
then drive back to feeder.
C3. in 3 s, two feeders with a ball each, feed a high straight shot on
alternate sides. Hitter, starting from and returning to the ‘T’ plays
length volley on one side and short volley on the other.
Figure. C3.

B
B C B B A
C A C A A C
A feeds high shot B volleys straight length C feeds high shot B volleys straight (short)

C4. Boast – cross-court – straight. The sequence described in B2,

playing the cross-court shot as a high lob for the player to volley
straight to a length or short.
C5. Conditioned game where one player has to prevent all shots from
reaching the back wall or the rally is lost. Standard scoring and rules
or repeat starter game.
 22
D. Variations on the serve
(T) There are many variations on serve which can be used to force an
error or at least a weak defensive volley or boast.
Starter game
Play a few points of a game with standard scoring and analyse the
effectiveness of the serve.
Does it force the receiver to play a difficult volley or to boast? Low, hard to side D1.1
Points to note
(a) Low, hard serve. This is usually aimed to hit the side wall low,
near the back line of the service box, but as a variation
(b) can be directed straight at the opponent or
(c) to her/his backhand side when serving from the left.
Take care to hit the front wall above the service line or the serve will
be lost.
(T) These serves must die near the back wall.
(d) Backhand serve. May be used from the right hand side to achieve
a narrower angle and make an attacking volley difficult to play. Low, hard to opponent D1.2
Aim for the side wall near the back of the service box.
(e) Corkscrew serve. Much loved by young, keen players with plenty
of time to practise and usually played from the left box. Aim to hit the
left hand front corner (front wall/side wall) very high.
The ball then screws across the court to the opposite back corner.
Difficult to return when unexpected as it will bounce into the wall if
allowed to hit the floor.
Step well across to the centre of the court to get the right angle into
the front corner.
Low, hard to backhand D1.3
Take care to hit the front wall first and not to footfault.
Figure. D1. 1-5

Practices
D1. Aim to targets for the serve. A racket propped up against the side
wall at the back of the service box makes a good target for the hard
low serve, and a small display board for the serves at opponent or
down the backhand side. Score points for target hits.
Figure. D1. 1,2,3,4 Backhand serve D1.4

D2. Serve and try to win the rally. Take four serves each. Allow a
second serve if a fault is served.
D3. Conditioned game, allowing each player to serve for X points and
a second serve if a fault is served.
D4. Game with standard rules and scoring. Marker and referee to call
and score the game.

Corkscrew serve D1.5

 23
E. Attacking with the boast
(T) A boast played from in front of the opponent can be a valuable
attacking move, drawing the player to the front of the court and often
winning the rally.
(T) Can be particularly effective when courts are fast and drop shots
difficult to play.
Starter game
Play a few points of a game and note shots played when in front of
opponent.
Is the side wall used?
Where does the effective boast finish?
What type of boast is played?
Points to note
The attacking boast is usually played to hit two walls and should die
close to the front wall, before reaching the opposite side wall.
Usually played with an open racket to cut the ball.

Practices
E1. Progressive boast (needs three or more players) Player A starts
with a boast and moves forward, player B returns cross court and
moves to the back, player C boasts and moves forward, player A
returns cross court etc.
Figure. E1. 1-5

B B
A
A
C A C B C
A boasts and moves forward B drives cross court C boasts and moves forward

A C C

B A B
A drives cross court B boasts and moves forward

E2. Boast and cross court. See B1. Player tries to hit two wall boast.
E3. Volley boast and straight. The same sequence as A7 with the
straight shot played fairly high and the boast as a volley.
E4. Boast – cross court – straight. See B2.
E5. Boast and variable length. Player drives or lobs straight or cross
court to length and partner boasts every shot. Score as a game where
all length shots have to be over the short line and the boast has to
reach the front wall.
E6. Conditioned game, with a bonus point if the rally is won with a
boast.
 24
F. Attacking shots at the front
(T) A number of different shots can be played at the front of the court
to try and win the rally. The basic plan uses drops, volley drops and
volley boasts. Other shots (e.g. short angles, reverse angles and short
kills) can be introduced later to increase the repertoire.
Starter game
Play a game, giving a bonus point if a winner can be played from in
front of opponent.
Are there any tactical or technical problems in playing these shots?
What shots are used?
Points to note
(T) Playing short off a short shot can be dangerous as the player is
out of position and may have difficulty clearing the shot.
(T) Players should either: a) use deception so that opponent is unable
to anticipate the shot.
b) be certain that opponent is well back in the court, or
c) play a very accurate shot which clings to the side wall, bounces
very low or into the nick and is hard to return.
(T) Having played the ball, move very quickly to clear the shot and
reach a good central position before opponent can return the shot.

Practices
F1. Player feeds short from behind – partner drops, then drives own
shot.
F2. Player lobs from front for partner to play short, straight volley.
F3. Channel game, trying to play short when in front. Play in half
(side) the court or the width of the service box with more accurate
players. SAFETY – use both sides if players are safe and accurate for
these games.
F4. in 3's, two feeders with a ball each, one feeds short, the other
high. Hitter plays drop one side and short volley the other. (see A6.)
F5. Two drives and volley boast. (see A8.)
F6. Conditioned game, with a bonus point for winners at the front.
 25
G. Defensive play
(T) Sound defence is based on the ability to return any shot,
preferably to a good length and reach a good position in mid-court
before opponent can hit the ball.
(T) Defensive play is particularly important when a player is receiving
service.
The plan practices length drives and volleys, lobs and boasts.
Starter game
Play a game and analyse unforced errors. Relate to serving/receiving.
Points to note
(T) Straight shots must be very close to the side walls so that they
can’t be easily cut off and cross-court shots must be wide enough to
reach the side walls towards the back of the service box.
(T) Lobs must be high enough to prevent opponent from volleying in
midcourt, and give time for the player to regain the ‘T’ position.
(T) First priority for the defensive boast is to make sure it reaches the
front wall and it is usually played to hit three walls.
Keep well away from the ball, and turn to face the back corner to give
space for the shot.
An alternative form of defensive boast is the skid boast.
The ball hits the front wall very high and close to the nearest front
corner and then follows the path of a cross-court lob.

Practices
G1. Straight length rally, hitting all shots behind short line and trying
to keep shots close to the side wall.
G2. Player feeds short ball for partner to lob straight.
G3. Long and short (see A5) How long can rally be maintained?
G4. Player hits cross court for partner to boast. Use this sequence to
practise 3 wall and skid boasts and improve consistency.
G5. Player hits straight or cross-court lengths for partner to boast.
How long can rally be maintained? Score as a game.
G6. Conditioned game in which players hit only length shots and
boasts.
 26
H. Varying the pace Boast, drop, drive (straight)

(T) Playing all shots at a constant speed makes it far easier for an
opponent to anticipate and time her/his shots.

B (T) Varying the pace by mixing slow lobs or drops with hard-hit drives
and volleys will not allow opponent to settle into a rhythm.
C A (T) Some players find a slow/hard game difficult to play against and it
A boasts H3.1 is essential that players are able to use both types of game. B
A
Points to note A boasts H5.1
(T) The backswing for all shots should be the same, making it harder
for the opponent to anticipate the shot.

B Practices
H1. Player feeds short for partner to play alternate straight drive and B
C A lob.
B lobs cross court H3.2 A
H2. In 3 s, two feeders with a ball each, feed short for hitter to play
hard length one side and lob or drop on the other. B drops H5.2
H3. In 3 s, two feeders with one ball. Player A boasts, player B lobs
cross court, player A feeds short, player B drives cross court, etc.
Figure. H3. 1-6

B H4. in 3s as above, but feeders either boast or feed short, hitter plays
alternate soft and hard shots. A
C A H5. Boast – drop – drive/lob. Player A boasts, player B drops, player
B
A feeds short H3.3 A drives or lobs player B boasts etc. This sequence can be played with
either a straight or cross court drive and works better if to start with A drives straight H5.3
the drop is played as a short feed rather than to win the rally.
Figure. H5. 1-6
H6. Conditioned game players try; a) all hard shots b) all soft shots c)
vary hard and soft.
B

C A
B A
B drives cross court H3.4
B boasts H5.4

A
B
C A
B
C boasts H3.5
A drops H5.5

B
B
C A
B lobs cross court H3.6
A
B drives straight H5.6
 27
Unit 3
The Game
Rules
The rules of the game are reviewed and changed if necessary every
four years.
Changes may be needed to simplify the rules or plug loopholes in
existing rules and make sure that the game is fair for all players.
Teachers should make sure they have an up-to-date copy of the rules
– currently May 1997.
The following is a simplified version of essential rules:

OUT LINE

FRONT WALL
4.57m
(15ft)
SERVICE LINE
1.83m
(6ft)
0.48m (19ins) TIN

SIDE SIDE
WALL WALL
9.75m
(32ft)

2.13m SHORT LINE

(7ft) 1.60m
SERVICE BOX SERVICE BOX
(5ft 3ins)
HALF
1.60m (5ft 3ins) COURT
4.26m
(13ft 10ins) LINE

6.40m (21ft)
Figure. 1. The Court

1. Playing
The rally is lost if the ball:
i. bounces twice before being hit
ii. fails to hit the front wall
iii. goes out (hits the wall or ceiling on or about the out line)
ALL LINES IN SQUASH ARE OUT
iv. hits the tin
v. is carried or double hit
2. Scoring
i. only the server can score a point
ii. winner is the first player to score 9 points
iii. if the score reaches 8-8 the receiver has the choice of:
– score to 9 points
set 2 – score to 10 points
iv. matches are usually played as the best of 3 or 5 games
3. Service
i. players toss to decide who serves first
ii. players can serve from either side at the start and each time they
regain the serve
iii. after winning a point the server must then serve from the other side
4. Service Faults
The server loses the rally and the right to serve when:
i. there is a foot fault
ii. the ball touches the floor or wall before the server hits it
iii. the serve fails to hit the front wall before any other part of the court
iv. the ball hits the wall on or below the service line
v. the ball (unless volleyed) fails to land in the opposite back quarter
vi. the serve hits the line or goes out of court
vii. the server misses the ball or hits it twice

A A direct hit to front wall — STROKE to striker
B
A serves wide to
backhand side of B and
moves to ‘T’
A injuring them.
B Decides appeals (e.g. lets,
B turns and plays
forehand after the ball
hits the back wall. The ball
hits A (Let)
28
5. Hitting an Opponent with the ball. If a good return (the ball would
hit the front wall between the tin and the out line) hits your opponent
you either play a let (replay the point) or win the rally (stroke). The
decision depends on whether or not the ball is going direct to the
front wall or is a boast which could hit either the side or back
wall first.
A1.1 There are two exceptions to the rule
When the striker has turned or mentally turned on the ball, (i.e. the
ball was on one side of a player, who allowed it to come round behind
him/her and then hit it on the other side after it hit the back wall). Let
played.
Figure. A1
ii) When the striker is making a second attempt to hit the ball. Let
played
B Indirect hit to front wall via side or back wall. Let played
In all these situations the referee will make the same decisions if the
player hits an opponent or refrains from making the stroke for fear of
Referee
6. Hitting yourself with the ball. If your own shot comes back and
A1.2 strokes, marker's calls)
hits you before the ball bounces twice you lose the rally.
Makes decisions on rules when
There are two exceptions to this rule.
i. If your opponent stops to play the ball in front of you and then required e.g. hitting opponent
moves away without hitting it. Let played with the ball
ii. If your opponent’s position is so close that they prevent you from Keeps times
moving away
Checks court, ball, etc.
7. Times. Five minutes are allowed to players to warm-up on the
court before a match Records the score
1
After 2 /2 minutes on one side, players change sides
Marker
There is an interval of one and a half minutes between games Calls the play (e.g. out, etc.)
8. Officials and their function. An important match is controlled by
Records and calls the score
two officials (Marker and Referee) who sit together centrally behind (note the server's score is
the back wall. always called first)
At lower levels it is more usual for one official to act as both marker
Repeats the referee's decision
and referee.
Figure. 4. The court
Positions of marker and referee
 29
9. Calls of Play Referee’s Line of Thinking
i. The Marker’s Calls
Fault/Footfault – faults that apply only to services Was there any interference?
Out – ball on or above out lines Yes No è NO LET
Down – ball hits the tin, or a ball that hits opponent ê
Not up – double bounce or other incorrect hit Could the incoming player have
Hand out – when the service changes hands reached the ball, could they
Game ball – when the server could win the game/match have played a good return and
Match ball – in the next rally e.g. 8-7 game ball were they making every effort
Set 1 – receiver has opted to play to 9 points to do so?
Set 2 – receiver has opted to play to 10 points Yes No è NO LET
Stop – to stop the game ê
Was the outgoing player
If the marker is uncertain about a decision e.g. out not up, etc. he making every effort to
will allow play to continue. It is then up to the player to appeal to move clear?
the referee that an opponent’s shot was out or not up, etc. This Yes No è NO LET
appeal is usually made at the end of the volley. ê
Was the incoming player
ii. The Referee Calls prevented from making a
Stop – to stop the game winning stroke?
Yes let – players replay the point Yes No è NO LET
No let – continue with next rally
Stroke to – stroke awarded to a player STROKE to
Time – to signal the end of the knock up or interval between games obstructed player
15 seconds – to indicate 15 seconds before the end of the interval
THERE IS NO APPEAL AGAINST THE REFEREE’S DECISION 12. Injuries If a player is ill or Decision
The referee will not interfere in the match unless he is certain the injured and unable to play on, allow 3 minutes to recover or
marker has failed to make the correct call e.g. out, not up etc or the the course followed by the concede the game.
player appeals or there is a danger to one or both players e.g. glass referee will depend on how the
or water on court, or dangerous strokes. injury happened. The player may then accept the
interval between games but
10. The Scoring System. There are four recommended methods i. Self Inflicted must then be ready to play on or
for recording the score. e.g. torn muscle, concede the match.
feeling sick
The system illustrated is the simplest to teach.
Allow three minutes to recover Allow 1hr to recover then re-
Jane Sarah Only the server’s score is written down or concede the game start from the same score.
OR If unable to resume must
ii. Contributed
1L The server’s score is always ahead concede the match.
e.g. where the injury was
2 RS accidentally contributed to, or
0R Draw a line across when it is hand out Referee awards the match to the
accidentally caused by the
2 RX and write in the server’s score injured player.
opponent.
8 R(2) R = Serving from right
8R L = Serving from left iii. Opponent Inflicted
9L X = Let awarded e.g. where injury was caused by
S = Stroke awarded the opponent’s dangerous play,
8 10 (2) = Set 2 or by a deliberate or dangerous
action.

11 Interference The rules on interference are hard to interpret but iv. Bleeding
essentially a let is played if it would be fair to start the rally again Irrespective of the category of
on equal terms and a stroke is awarded if one player was in such the injury, or of illness or
an advantageous position that it would not be fair to re-start the disability, a player shall not
rally on level terms. resume play while a wound that
is bleeding remains uncovered,
Both players must make every effort to reach the ball and get out of or blood flow is visible from a
their opponent’s way. covered wound or on any part of
A player should stop and ask for a let if her/his opponent gets in the player’s body or with blood
the way and prevents her/him from seeing, reaching or hitting the stained clothing.
ball.
 30
Competitions
Competitions may be in the form of leagues, pools, tournaments,
matches or some combination of all of these.
1. Leagues In a league the players or teams are put into groups and
all play all in each group.
A. Individual League Table
The players are grouped according to standard and may play one
game best of three or best of five.
In this league, matches are the best of five games.

Individual League Table

Group 1 A B C D Points Group 2 A B C D Points
A Tom 6 3 2 11 A Sarah 1 5 3 9
B Dick 1 5 3 9 B John 6 3 2 11
C Jane 4 2 4 10 C Diana 2 4 3 9
D Harry 5 4 3 12 D Peter 3 3 1 7

Score – Player wins 3-0 points scored 6-1

3-1 5-2
3-2 4-3
At the end of the competitions, the two top scorers move up to the
next group and the two bottom scorers move down.
If the points are level, the result of the individual match decides the
result.
Use this formula to calculate the number of matches to be played in
each group.
(n 1)n = (4-1)4 = 3x4 = 12 = 6 Matches
2 2 2 2
n = no. of players
For a fun competition, player may be handicapped, using American
scoring (point per rally).
B. Team League
In a team league, the matches are played involving teams of 3, 4 or 5
players.

Team League Table

Div.1 A B C D E Points
A Woodford W. 6 1 1 2 10
B Hampstead C. 1 2 0 5 8
C Coolhurst 6 5 0 1 12
D Stripes 6 7 7 6 26 1st
E Cumberland 5 2 6 1 14 2nd
Score – The winning team scores a point for each player’s win, plus a
bonus of two points for the team win. This usually avoids the problem
of two teams finishing level on points. If this does happen either the
games and points are totalled or the championship is given to the
team which won the match played between the two teams.
2. Pools. Some team competitions (e.g. world team event) are played
in pools.
The top teams are seeded and placed in different pools.
 31
World Team Event 1989
Pool A A B C D S Final Final
A England 3 3 3 1st
England
B Ireland 0 3 2 2nd
} England 2/1

}
C Canada 0 0 1 4th
N.Zealand
D Netherlands 0 1 2 3rd

England 3/0
Pool B A B C D
A Australia 2 3 3 1st
Ireland
B N. Zealand
C Scotland
1 3 3 3 2nd
0 0
D W Germany 0 0 1
2 3rd
4th
Australia
} Australia 3/0

Scoring Pool Results: Ties Matches Difference in Games Won/Lost

Points Won/Lost
In this example (part of the 1989 world team event) the top two teams
(finalists) in the previous competition (1987) are put in different pools.
On the results of the pool, the teams are then seeded for the semi-
finals and play a knock out.
3. Tournaments. Anyone running a large event should obtain the
Tournament Organisers Guide from the SRA.
Figure. This example of a 15 player competition shows the placing of a
bye and seeded players.
A. Byes. If the number of players is not a power of 2 i.e. 2-4-8-16-32,
etc., some players will have a bye (a player has no opponent and goes
straight into the second round) to reduce the competition to one of
those numbers.
The number of byes is calculated by taking the number of entries from
the nearest power of 2 e.g. 15 players 16-15 = 1 Bye. The bye is given
to the top seeded players.
B. Seeding. A seeding system is used so that in theory at least, the
best players meet in the final rounds.
To keep them separate in the early rounds, they are ranked in standard
order and then placed as follows:
1 – Top of draw
2 – Bottom of draw
3 – Top of bottom half
4 – Bottom of top half
Players 5-8 are placed so that in the quarter finals they play as follows:
5 plays 4, 6 plays 3, 7 plays 2, 8 plays 1.
The simple method to work out where seeded players should be
placed is: Take the number of seeds and add 1.
E.g. 8 seeds + 1 = 9, therefore no. 7 should be placed to meet no. 2
seed in the quarter finals.
Note: An alternative is to draw for positions in groups i.e. 3-4, 5-8, 9-16
4. Matches. The majority of club and county matches in this country
are played with 5 players in the team.
Some club and school league competitions are played 4 a side and
with a 2-2 draw the match result is decided by games or points won.
The world team event is contested by teams of 3 a side.
Whichever system is used, the players must be placed in order of
standard.
No 1 plays no 1, no 2 plays no 2 etc.
 32

WOMEN’S OVER 35’s CHAMPIONSHIP 1989

Round One Quarter-Finals Semi-Finals FINAL
Lambs Lambs Wembley Wembley
Fri 14 April Sat 15 April Sun 16 April Mon 17 April
Angela Smith (Staffs) 1
Bye 13.45
Penny Last (Middx) 13.00 CT.3
Marcia Oram (Essex) CT.5
13.00
Sandra Wrench (Beds) (4)) 13.45
Jean Wagner(Herts) CT.2 13.00

Jackie Candlin (Surrey) 15.15 CT.1

Wendy Cole (Kent) CT.1
16.15
Wendy Berry (Sussex) 16.00
Ann Mohan(Berks) CT.5 18.30

Hilary Tabb (Berks) 20.45 CT.1

Avril Murphy (Essex) (3) CT.1
18.30
Joyce Tuomey (Kent) 20.00
Eva Ringstrom (Sweden) CT.5 17.00
Maggie Gardner (Surrey) 19.15 CT.2
Rae Anderson (Aus) (2) CT.2
Seedings in Brackets CT=Court

Title of League Div.No. Played at (Tie)

Teams: A (Home) v B (Away) Referee
Player A Beat/Lost to Player B Marker

A B A B A B A B A B

Winner
 33
Stretching Exercises Unit 4 Mobilising Exercises
Physical Conditioning
As with all other sports and events, fitness for squash is specific, and
any preparation which a player undergoes must relate to the following
factors:
The demands of the sport
The needs of the player
The time of year
Training
In order to become fit it is necessary to undergo a process known as
training which must be carefully structured and monitored in
accordance with the above factors.
1. Calf
Training is said to be governed by 4 “laws”: 1. Arm Circling

Specificity – all preparation must relate to the sport, the individual’s

needs and the time of year.
Overload – the workload must be sufficient to put the body systems
under stress, because only in this way will they become stronger and
more efficient.
Progression – the training load must be built up over time to cater for
the player’s improved standard of fitness and create the necessary
overload.
Reversibility – the “use it or lose it” law, i.e. following a medium to
long term lay off, gains made will be diminished and eventually lost.
2. Quadriceps
Fitness
Fitness is said to comprise the following integral elements: 2. Side Bends
Stamina
Speed
Strength
Suppleness/flexibility
Psychology and skill
In this section it is mainly the first 4 factors which will be discussed,
3. Hamstrings although in a game such as Squash, skill and technique are always
included within a physical conditioning programme.
Fitness for Squash. Prior to starting a training programme it is useful
to establish a starting point of the current level of fitness. This can be
done by undertaking a series of simple tests, examples of which are to
be found in Table 1 (see page 35). In order to test the effectiveness of
the fitness training programme the tests should be re-done at about 3. Trunk Twists
two to three monthly intervals. If the player follows the schedule
regularly and there is an improvement in his/her fitness level then the
schedule is achieving the desired effect. If there is no improvement, or
a fall in performance, and the player has honestly followed the
prescribed schedule then clearly a re-designed schedule is necessary.
4. Adductors Stamina/endurance. Squash is a game where the player requires a
great capacity for endurance. Matches are best of five games and,
unlike many other sports, there is no time limit put on a match, which
is played out to a conclusion irrespective of how long it takes.
This type of fitness, and the training it requires, is known as aerobic,
i.e. in the presence of oxygen. Activities such as continuous running
4. 4. Half
Half Squat
Squat
would fall within this category, and would be the type of training done
during the preparation phase of an annual schedule.
Within this endurance factor the Squash player is called upon to
produce short bursts of speed. This type of work, i.e. high intensity,
5. Hip Flexors short duration, is known as anaerobic, i.e., in the absence of oxygen.
Shuttle runs and certain types of court training would be used here.
(See Table 1 for examples). This high-quality work would be done at
the end of the Preparation phase and into the pre-competition and
competition phases of training.
 34
Speed. To the Squash player speed is very important. Speed of
movement, speed of reaction, speed of response and limb speed are
all factors for consideration in training. Also linked to pure speed is
agility and the ability to maintain balance after a sudden change of
direction. As with anaerobic training, pure sprinting, shuttles and
reaction time training must be included. As speed is important in
Squash this type of work will go on throughout the training cycle, but
be at its height during the pre-competition phase and will be included
in “top up” training throughout the season.
NB. Warm-up and cool-down. Before starting to train it is essential
that the player is thoroughly warmed up as this will both prepare the
body for the vigorous activity which is to follow, and help to prevent
injury. In Squash training the match warm up alone is not sufficient to
achieve this, and most good players will undertake an off court warm-
up before both training and competition. This should involve a gradual
build up of jogging and stretching to some exercise which will reflect
the type of activity encountered in the game, for example shuttle runs
and other sprint activities. Cooling down is often forgotten, but it is a
vital factor in allowing the body to process the waste products
produced by exercise and help prevent stiffness. Stretching and
jogging (for examples see Table 1) are good activities for this phase.
Strength. Absolute strength is not a requisite for fitness in squash,
rather what is needed is power (strength x speed) and activities such
as exercise circuits are good training for this factor. These would be
included at the end of the preparation and into the PRE-competition
phase.
Suppleness/Flexibility. Flexibility, the range of movement about any
joint complex, is important for any sport and Squash is no exception.
Increased flexibility (within an acceptable range) not only helps in
injury prevention, but in the case of Squash can also help to facilitate
technique and skill production. For these reasons flexibility training,
preferably slow static stretching, should become a daily routine.
Examples of stretching exercises for Squash are found in Figure. 1.
All these stretching movements should be done slowly and the fully
stretched position held for 10 seconds.
An example of a training programme illustrating all these elements is
found in Table 1.
The Annual Plan. Like all sports, Squash training and competition is
organised on an annual basis. All 5 elements should be included
during the year, but the emphasis and balance amongst them will
change from month to month.
This annual programming is sometimes known as periodisation, i.e.
the division of the calendar year into different periods or phases
depending on the dates of the major competitions or events, e.g.
assessments, qualifying rounds, etc.
The simplest example of this is the 3 phase year, see Table 2 (see
p.36) This could be applied to Squash as illustrated in The Squash
Year Table 3 (see page 36).
The Squash Year. In this country the competition season runs from
September to April, but top level players can and sometimes do
compete all the year round as the competition season outside Europe
and North America is during our summer break.
Players who are trying to build up their skills and fitness should follow
a yearly programme building up to the competition period.
Conclusion. Fitness is an important factor in sport, not only because it
may lead to improved performance, but also because it contributes to
the general well being of the individual in their normal life. Training
not only improves the player’s physical condition, but also imparts a
degree of self discipline and helps to build both her/his self image and
self confidence both of which are particularly important at this stage in
a young player’s life.
 A. Endurance
Aerobic (with oxygen)
The ability to run for a long time
depends on the efficiency of the
cardio-respiratory system to bring
oxygen to the working muscles.
Endurance is improved by exercising
at a level which raises the heart rate
to an appropriate level for a period of
time.
Frequency 2-4 times a week
Intensity 60-80% of maximum heart rate.
Simple guide to work rate 220 – (age
+25)
Duration 20 minutes continuous activity or 15
minutes in intervals
Total time
Type Running, skipping, cycling,
swimming, aerobics, squash games,
continuous shot sequences (e.g.
boast, cross court, straight)
Testing Harvard step test
Step for 5 minutes onto an 18”
(women) 20” (men) bench at 30 steps
a minute.
Rest tor 1 minute.
Take the pulse for 1/2 minute.
F1 = time in secs x 100
Pulse (1/2min) x 5.5
Good 100+, Very good 120+
Excellent 140+, Exceptional 160+
11/2 Mile Run
Times Men 12 min fair, 10.15 good,
8.15 very good, below 8.15 excellent
Women 14.14 mins fair, 12.18 good,
10.18 very good, below 10.18
excellent.
B. Local Muscle Endurance
Aerobic and anaerobic (without oxygen)
The ability to repeat a movement
over a period of time. In Squash, this
is needed in the legs for running and
the racket arm for hitting.
3-5 times a week
80-90% of maximum HR.
1:1 to 2:1 ratio of work to rest.
40-60 secs. work
20-30 secs. rest, up to 30-40 secs.
10-20 minutes
Legs. Shuttle runs, interval sprints,
exercise circuits, continuous short
sequences.
Arms. Exercise circuits, shot
sequences (e.g. volley rally), medicine
ball work
Court shadows
With the racket in hand, run to each
corner in sequence, return to ‘T’ each
time. Play a pretend shot at a line
marked in each corner. Run for 40
secs. Rest for 20 secs. Repeat x 6.
Count corners reached.
Exercises
Count number completed in 1 minute
of Chins
Men: 4 poor, 8 av., 15 exc.
Women: 2 poor, 4 av., 8 exc.
Press ups
Men: 5 poor; 20 av., 50 exc.
Women: 3 poor; 10 av., 25 exc
Squat thrusts
Men: 15 poor: 35 av., 65 exc.
Women: 8 poor; 18 av., 38 exc
C. Speed D. Strength and Power
The need in Squash is for speed over A Squash racket is very light and
very short distances with frequent most players have enough strength
stops and turns. This involves agility, for the game. The work on local
anticipation and speed of response as muscle endurance will usually be
well as actual muscle speed. adequate. In the legs the need is tor
POWER i.e. STRENGTH X SPEED,
rather than pure strength.
3-5 times a week 2-3 times a week
95% of maximum Small number of repetitions at
1:5 ratio of work to rest 60-80% maximum weight.
5-15 secs. work This will vary according to the type
50-60 secs. rest of equipment and programme used.
6-10 minutes
Shuttle runs Exercise circuit, weights or
25 or 50 metre sprints progressive resistance programme
Court shadows (multigym)
Run 10-15 sec. Chest expander or spring grip
Rest 1 minute
20 or 50 metre sprints Grip dynamometer
Best of three attempts with a flying Sergeant lump (leg power). The
start (timed) player stands beside a blackboard and
the height reached by the finger tip of
Shuttle run one hand is marked. Feet flat on the
Two runs, using court lines, best of floor. Then bend the knees and
three attempts. jump to touch the wall as high as
possible. Record the distance
between the two marks. Best of three
attempts.
Men: 16” good, 18’ better, over 20".
good. Women: 14” good, 16” better,
over 18” v. good.
E. Flexibility
This is the range of movement at a
joint. Squash players do not need the
flexibility of a gymnast but often have
to stretch to reach a ball. A good
range of movement in the trunk and
hips is important.
daily
Each movement held for 10 secs and
repeated 6-10 times.
5-15 minutes
Slow stretching exercises
(see section on warm up p.35)
Components of a Fitness Training Programme for Squash Table 1
Sitting reach
The player sits on the floor with legs
straight and feet against the flat side
of a bench. Reach forward as far as
possible and measure the distance of
the fingertips, up to or past the bench.
35
 36

Table 2 THE ANNUAL PLAN

Phases of training Preparatory Competitive Recovery

Sub-Phases General Prep. Specific Prep. Pre-Compet. Competitive Rest and

Recuperation

Table 3

Periodisation of Training and Competition

June July August
Basic endurance Aerobic and Anaerobic work –
programme, getting Anaerobic emphasis on speed
faster in the last training. Small
week aerobic component
The player will also be on court six days a week
September- January February-April
December
Rest before Rest and train Competition build up
competitions. Continue to British Open in
smaller amount of April
aerobic and anaerobic
exercise when
possible
The content of each session will vary according to the training period but will
follow this pattern:
1. Warm up – stretching programme
2. Speed work – sprints – court shuttles
3. Skills routines on court
4. Aerobic endurance work
5. Cool down
 37
Unit 5
Mental Preparation
Competitive sport requires not only high levels of physical
preparation, but also that players are prepared mentally. In terms of
training theory this is covered by the element of Psychology
mentioned in the section on physical conditioning. One way to
illustrate the factors involved in the psychology of sport is represented
in Figure 5.1

Motivation

Confidence Peak Performance Anxiety

Concentration
Figure 5.1
Motivation. The drive which keeps a player wanting to continue to
participate in the sport. This may be fired by a desire to succeed, a
wish to play because friends/peers are playing (affiliation), or to use
Squash as a means to broaden social horizons. Whatever the basis,
motivation is very important in the achievement of success and
satisfaction. Confidence. This may be based upon many factors, for
example:
previous success
success of peers (“if she can I can”)
persuasion, although this must be used judiciously.
Concentration. The ability to focus on the task in hand and to
attenuate all irrelevant stimuli. This is a vital factor in Squash which is
a fast ball game, taking place in a small enclosed environment, often
hot and bright and with noise both from the balcony and the other
courts. In addition to this is the “noise” created internally as a result
of fatigue, stress, negative thoughts or fear of injury or failure.
Anxiety is a feeling of general misgiving or unease, and is a very
common, and in some cases justifiable, emotion. The problem arises
when it gets out of proportion and threat is perceived in situations
which are essentially non-threatening. As Albert Ellis (1975)
maintains... "situations are not anxious.” It is at this stage that anxiety
can start to affect performance negatively.
There are many mental and physical exercises which can assist Figure 5.2
players to improve in the four key areas mentioned above. These may
be categorised as follows: SUGGESTED READING
1) Somatic. Relating to the body. Examples of this type would be,
Progressive Relaxation, Autogenic Training, Yoga, T'ai Chi etc. 1. Nidifter. R & Sharpe. C. ACT
2) Behavioural. These are sometimes referred to as humanistic, and Attention Control Training: How
are based on what might be thought of as “common sense” practices to Get Control of Your Mind
such as Goal Setting or Positive Self Talk. Through Total Concentration,
3) Cognitive. Examples of these would be techniques such as Mental Human Kinetics, Illinois, 1985.
Rehearsal, sometimes known as Visuo Motor Behaviour Rehearsal
2. Orlick. T. Psyching for Sport:
(VMBR), Imaging, Attention Control Training (ACT) and Sport
Mental Training for Athletes.
Psyching**
Leisure Press, Illinois, 1986.
4) Meditative. Techniques which are based on trying to achieve
altered states of consciousness by the repetition of a word or phrase. 3. Rushal. B. Psyching for
Examples of these would be Transcendental Meditation (TM) or Sport: The Psychological
Benson’s Relaxation response.** Preparation for Serious
Competition in Sport. Pelham,
**these are but a few examples of the many techniques which have
London, 1979.
been developed to assist sportsmen and women to achieve peak
performance through mental control. A list of references is enclosed 4. Syer. J & C. Connolly,
to provide staff with greater detail of individual techniques. References Sporting Body Sporting Mind.
– Figure 5.2 Cambridge University Press,
Cambridge, 1984.
N.B. Perhaps more than any other form of training, mental
preparation MUST be acceptable to the individual player. One strategy 5. Tutko. T. & U. Tosi Sport
is to introduce a variety of techniques from which the player may Psyching. Tarcher, Los Angeles,
select one or two which they find acceptable and beneficial to their 1976.
game. Having said this, as concentration is such an important factor in
Squash one suggestion might be to use techniques such as ACT as a
basic training routine and add to this relaxation or goal setting as
necessary.
 38
Unit 6
Injuries in Squash
Prevention is better than Cure
Injuries are not particularly common in Squash, but even a minor
injury may lead to loss of enjoyment and time off work, while for the
professional player there may also be loss of income.
To prevent injuries it is important to understand how they happen and
what body structures are affected.

The Structures Involved

Injuries may be sudden or come on gradually
Bruises
Cuts
Direct Open Fractures
(Extrinsic)
Thigh Bone
(Femur)
Eye Injury
Thigh Muscle Closed Sprains and strains
(Quadriceps) Bruises
Sudden
Knee Cap (Traumatic) Soft Tissues
(Patella)
Complete or partial tear
Cartilage Indirect of – muscle, tendon,
Ligaments
(Intrinsic) ligament, cartilage,
Patella Tendon strains and sprains

Growth Point
(Tibial Tubercle) Bones
Fracture
Shin Bones
(Tibia) Crack
Stress fracture
(Fibula)
Gradual Bone – Stress fractures
Soft tissues – Tennis elbow
Figure 6.1 The Knee: The Growth points – Tibial tubercle
structures involved
(Osgood Schlatters)
– Heel
(Severs)
Joints – Arthritis

Injury Prevention
Few players escape without at least a minor injury at some time in
their playing life but attention to these points reduces the risks.
1. Facilities and Equipment
Door. Fitting flush with wall – spy hole or glass panel for observation.
Floor. Smooth, not slippery (floors should not be sealed) or wet.
Glasses. Use plastic lenses in prescription glasses.
Rackets. Correct type – no rough edges on racket head.
Suitable racket weight (not too heavy) and length (short for younger
players). Correct grip size.
Shoes. Good grip, correct size, no rigid heel tabs.
2. Rules and Safety Points
Rules on 'Interference’ and 'Hitting opponent with the Ball’ are there
to keep the game both fair and safe.
Players should always play a ‘let’ if there is any danger of hitting
opponent with racket or ball.
Safety points for the organisation of groups learning to play Squash
are noted in 'Skills and Drills’.
 39
3. Fitness for Squash
Growth. Growth points in the leg bones are not fully united until the
ages of 16 in girls or 18 in boys. Growth in the spine continues until
around 23. Progress training carefully and avoid using heavy weights.
Health. It is dangerous to play when ill with ‘flu or other conditions
causing a raised temperature.
Progress training or play slowly if unfit.
Avoid smoking, alcohol or drugs.
Ensure adequate rest and sleep.
Players. Fit players tire less easily and stretch more freely. Strong
muscles help to protect joints.
Training. WARM UP AND COOL DOWN thoroughly. (see Physical
Conditioning notes).
Progress training gradually.
4. Technique
Grip and swing. Correct technique of grip and swing is essential.

NECK
(STERNO-CLEIDO-MASTOID
and top of TRAPEZIUS)
Move the head backwards and turn it
sideways. In squash they are in
CONSTANT USE as players watch the
flight of the ball and the movements of
the opponent

SHOULDER CHEST
(DELTOIDS) (PECTORALS)
Used in all racket movements These muscles draw the arms forward
of the chest –
BACK OF ARM especially used in
(TRICEPS) Forehand shots
Especially used in
Backhand shots BUTTOCK
(GLUTEALS)
FRONT OF ARM Extend the hips and control the low
(BICEPS) position for all strokes
Especially used in STOMACH
Forehand shots (ABDOMINALS)

SIDE Especially
(OBLIOUES) important for body
FOREARM
(FLEXORS/EXTENSORS control in all shots
HIP
of HAND and WRIST) (FLEXORS)
Especially used in:
Gripping the racket and all basic
strokes FRONT OF THIGH
(QUADRICEPS)
BACK
Used in all running and leaping
(several muscles)
movements
– arch the back
Also – controls bent-knee positions and
Control the body and straightens the legs during shots
provide power for
the shots

LOWER LEG
Several muscles here control the ankle in
BACK of THIGH CONSTANT USE in Squash.
(HAMSTRINGS) Foot and ankle control balance and quick
Used in all movements
KNEE-BENDING
actions

CALF
(GASTROCNEMIUS)
Especially used tor a fast push off
and quick turns
Used whenever body weight is
taken on the toes
Figure 6.2 The muscles at work in Squash
 40
First Aid
Common Injuries First Aid. Correct early treatment is essential to prevent
Part Injury Cause more serious damage.
Head Cut & bruises Hit by racket Blisters. Protect small blisters with plaster. Puncture large
Eye injuries Hit by ball or racket with sterilized needle. Clean and cover broken blisters (2nd
Shoulder Muscle and ligament Poor technique, overuse skin)
tears Bruises. Use ice pack or Heparinoid cream to reduce
Dislocation Contact with wall bruising.
Elbow Tennis elbow Incorrect technique or grip size Collapse. Teach resuscitation techniques to restore
Change of racket breathing. Brain cells die after 4 minutes without oxygen
Overuse and even more quickly if the victim has been running hard.
Wrist Tenosynovitis Poor technique, overuse Cuts. Clean if necessary, apply cold pressure pack. Use
(inflamed tendon sheath) Change of racket butterfly plasters to keep edges of a split wound closed.
Ligament strain
Stress fractures These are cracks in the bone and are felt
Hand Blisters Hard skin, worn handle grip, overuse as increasing pain in the bone after exercise. They often do
Spine Back pain Poor posture, heavy lifting, weak not show up on X-ray until nearly healed. Rest for 4-6
muscles, inflexible weeks from any exercise which causes pain. Painless
exercise e.g. swimming, cycling, should be continued to
Hip Muscle and ligament tears Poor warm up, inflexible promote healing. Continuing normal training e.g. running,
Thigh Muscle tears Poor warm up, inflexible skipping, may cause complete fracture. These fractures
may occur in players (particularly girls) whose bones are
Knee Torn cartilage or ligaments Twisting fall, weak muscles weak through low weight and inadequate diet.
Osgood Schlatters
(slipped growth point) Overuse Tears of muscle, ligament or tendons. Pain is a sign of
Knee cap pain Weak muscles damage. Stop exercise to prevent further damage.
Immediate treatment is RICE. (Rest, Ice, Compression,
Calf Muscle tears Poor warm up, sudden over stretch Elevation).
Lower leg Achilles tendon tear or Sudden over stretch Rest. Rest the affected part.
inflammation Friction from heel tabs
Shin splints Rapid increase in training or playing Ice. Protect the skin with a damp cloth. Apply ice pack
(crushed ice in a towel, chemical ice pack, massage with
Ankle Sprain Twisting fall ice cube). A pack of frozen peas can be used; protect skin
Foot Stress fracture Overtraining from ice burns with a cloth.
Bruised heel Unsprung floors, poor shoes, over Compression. A layer of cotton wool held in place with a
playing or training bandage, or use Tubigrip until swelling disappears to
minimise damage.
Elevation. To reduce swelling, try to rest the arm or leg
above the horizontal.
First Aid Kit. At least water, plasters and ice should be
available but a useful kit should contain the following:
Plasters, including butterfly plasters
Tubigrip in various sizes
Cotton wool, sterile dressings and crepe bandages
Adhesive tapes and scissors
Spenco 2nd skin (blister kit)
Heparinoid cream
Chemical ice pack or vacuum flask of crushed ice and
towel
Treatment. Prompt and correct treatment can speed up
recovery and help to prevent chronic injuries. Doctors or
physiotherapists who specialise in sport injuries are the
best people to give advice on diagnosis and treatment. It is
important to restore full stretch and strength in damaged
muscles before returning to the sport.
 41
Unit 7
Historical Background
How it all started. Actual facts about the origins of Squash as a game Post War The game has gradually spread world wide with a great
are hard to find, but it seems to have evolved as a practice game for expansion in Australia in the 1950s and there are now 50-60 countries
rackets players at Harrow around the middle 1800s. The story goes with sufficient strength to become full members of the WSF.
that a soft ball was used, so that expensive rackets balls were not
wasted and perhaps more important, the school windows were not A glance at the record books shows that the game has been dominated
broken. The game was played in three different yards of the school for large chunks of time by a relatively small number of players.
boarding houses where three walls occurred in a suitable position.
Some rugby fives courts were also used in the 1860s as the game Winners of 4 or more British Open Championships
became more popular and developed its own rules. The name Men
‘Squash’ is thought to come from the noise made as the ball – a soft 1933 – 1938 (5) F. D. Amr Bey (Egypt)
rubber one, often with a hole made in it to slow it down – hit the wall. 1947 – 1950 (4) M. A. Karim (Egypt)
1951 – 1958 (7) Hashim Khan (Pakistan)
The first known purpose-built court was constructed by a former
1959 – 1962 (4) Azam Khan (Pakistan)
Harrovian, Vernon Harcourt, at his home in Oxford in 1883. This court
1967 – 1973 (6) Jonah Barrington (England)
was almost 2 metres longer than the present standard of 9.75 metres
1969 – 1981 (8) Geoff Hunt (Australia)
but had the same width at 6.40 metres. The 'tin’ on the front wall was
1982 – 1991 (9) Jehangir Khan (Pakistan)
0.76 metres high, compared with 0.48 metres of the modern court.
1992 – 1997 (6) Jansher Khan (Pakistan)
Many modern courts were built in the late 1800s in private houses,
public schools and London social clubs, but although rules were laid
Women
down in 1886 and Squash recognised as a separate game, there were
1934 – 1939 (5) Margot Lumb (England)
no standard measurements and courts were of many different sizes.
1950 – 1959 (10) Janet Morgan (England)
Neither was there any standard ball, each club playing with their own
1962 – 1977 (16) Heather McKay (Australia)
favourite missile, but all of them being probably much faster than the
1980 – 1983 (4) Vicky Cardwell (Australia)
present ball. This fact accounts for a rule in Squash which allows a let
1984 – 1990 (7) Susan Devoy (New Zealand)
if a ball goes out of court after its first bounce.
1993 – 1998 (6) Michelle Martin (Australia)
Early 1900s – In the early 1900s many courts were built in this
country and in the United States where they held the first-ever
National Championships. The court measurements and rules adopted
by the USSRA in 1907 were different from those later standardised by
most other countries. This has over the years tended to exclude
American players from top levels of International competition. An
increasing number of International standard courts are now being built
in North America which should make it possible for American players
to compete on equal terms with the rest of the world in future.
Although the Squash Rackets Association was not formed in this
country until 1928, standard measurements were laid down in 1911
by the sub-committee of the Tennis (Real Tennis) & Rackets
Association which administered the game. The measurements chosen
were those of the Bath Club court, as this happened to be the club
used by many of the top officials of that time. The first Major
Championships were held in England for women in 1922 and men in
1923.
In 1934 the women set up a separate association which managed their
affairs until being re-united with the SRA in September 1989.
 42
An interesting point to note is the domination of the men’s game in the
1950s and since 1980 by players from Pakistan. There are few courts in
the country and fewer than 10,000 players and even more striking is that
the winners come principally from related families living in Peshawar, the
high northern part of the country.

The Open Game The difficulty of defining amateur status and policing
the rules led to the women’s game becoming open in 1976 and the
men’s game in 1980.

Until these dates, amateur and professional players competed in separate

competitions.

World Team Open Champions Since 1979 when the first women’s world
team competition was played, the competition has reflected the dominant
position of Australia, England and New Zealand.

World Team Open Champions

Men Women
1981 Pakistan 1979 Great Britain
1983 Pakistan 1981 Australia
1985 Pakistan 1983 Australia
1987 Pakistan 1985 England (since 1980 England, Scotland,
1989 Australia Wales and Ireland have competed separately)
1991 Australia 1987 England
1993 Pakistan 1989 England
1995 England 1990 England
1997 England 1992 Australia
1994 Australia
1996 Australia
1998 Australia
European Champions. The men’s competition first played in 1973 has
been won by England every year except 1980 and 1983 when they lost
to Sweden. The England women’s team have won every year since
their competition was first played in 1977.
Today. The game has become much more visible thanks to the
development of the first glass-back courts and later the all-glass or
‘Perspex’ court.
One-way glass or 'Perspex’ allows a good view for spectators while
presenting an opaque background for the players.
Use of the glass or 'Perspex’ court for major championships and team
competitions and the development of a special ball with fluorescent
dots has made it much easier to see the ball and follow the course of a
match on television.
Top class men’s matches can be very long (over two hours) and there
have been some recent experiments with different scoring systems
(e.g. timed matches, point per rally, maximum number of shots in a
rally) and court markings (lowering the tin) in an effort to make the
game more exciting for viewers.
England hold a strong position in world squash, both in team and
individual events.
The women’s team have won the world event the last three times it
has been played and the men finished third in the last (1989)
championship.
There are currently 4 English women in the world’s top ten and 2 men.

Players in the World’s Top ten (March 1999)

Men Women
Paul Johnson Cassie Wright
Simon Parke Sue Wright
Suzanne Horner
Fiona Geaves
 43
Unit 8
STRUCTURE OF THE SPORT
3. Structure
World Wide National Associations In common with most governing bodies of sport in this country,
WSF All squash playing countries have a the game is organised nationally by full time paid administrators
National Association to organise controlled by voluntary officers elected by the membership.
the game within the country. Fifty-
WISPA National Regional The SRA
five countries are strong enough to
Associations Associations be full members of the WSF. In Council
ESRF England, the game is administered (delegates from
by the Squash Rackets County Associations)
World Squash Federation Association. Sub Committees
The WSF is the central authority Executive Council
for the game throughout the Ireland, Scotland and Wales have (elected by Council)
world and is responsible for: Finance Coaching Development Technical Events
their own national associations. & Officials
The rules of the game Chief Executive
Promotion and growth of the The Squash Rackets Association Department Heads
game 1. Aims. Set up over sixty years
Promoting and organising the ago (1928) to formulate the rules,
World Championships (held bi- the association now has a much Head Office Coaching & Development Facility Events Elite &
annually) greater involvement in the game Finance Officials Technical WCPP
which can be classified under three & Medical
Regional and National broad headings.
Associations are affiliated to the
WSF and so too are the players’ Membership Coaching
associations the PSA and Services Participation
WISPA. Squash Annual Training courses 4. The Ladder to the Top
Squash News Leaders
PSA Professional Squash (monthly) Teachers Figure 8.2
Association Insurance Coaches
WORLD
WISPA Women's International Advice Refereees and TEAM
Squash Players Association Information Markers INDIVIDUAL
EVENTS
These two organisations Advice to clubs Refresher courses
represent and promote the on: Court Junior beginner
interests of the top tournament maintenance courses ENGLAND TEAM

players. and School competitions

construction Player grading YOUNG
ENGLAND
Regional Associations Excellence External BRITISH
OPEN
Some countries are grouped into Events Liaison with NATIONAL
regional associations e.g. Area and Sports Council, SQUADS
EUROPEAN
ESRF European Squash Rackets National squads CCPR, ISRF, CHAMPIONSHIP
Federation Centres of ESRF and other BOYS GIRLS
NATIONAL HOME
Asia/Pacific Excellence agencies U12 U16 COACHES INTERNATIONAL
U14 U19
South American National team involved in U16
ENG. SCOT.
WALES IRELAND
U19 PANEL TUTORS
The regional associations events squash
promote tournaments and tours National AREA
PART NATIONAL
CHAMPIONSHIP
AREA TEAMS III
for member countries. Competitions
S

COACH COACHES
AWARD

& AREA “I” GRADE

SRS (Referee DEV. REF NATIONAL
AREA SQUADS & SCHOOLS
and Markers) OFFICER
SKILLS

MARK COMPETITION

2. Funding PART INTER

JUNIOR

COUNTY TEAMS COUNTY

Annual Budget £1,000,000 II
COUNTY COACHES
COACH PREMIER (MEN) &
GOLD SUPER (WOMEN)
COUNTY SQUADS “T” GRADE INTER CLUB
MEMBERSHIP STAR
REF & MARK LEAGUES
SERVICES
25% PART
SILVER
% STAR I INTER CLUB
5
NAL CLUB-SCHOOL
CLUB COACHES & INTER SCHOOL
T ER TEAMS BRONZE COACH
“C” GRADE R & M
(BOROUGH
EX STAR
TEACHER TEACHERS & LEADERS
& COUNTY)
AWARD
COACHING CLUB RED LEADER CLUB LEAGUES
STAR INTRODUCTORY
PARTICIPATION MEMBERS AWARDS & COMPETITIONS
10% SKILLS
PLAYERS AWARDS
COACHES, REFEREES & MARKERS COMPETITIONS
MEMBERSHIP
EVENTS
60%

Figure 8.1 How is the money spent

 44
5. The Base of the Ladder (Clubs and Counties)
The foundation of the game lies in the County Associations and the
clubs.
County Associations are part funded by the SRA and run by voluntary
workers. They are responsible for developing squash in the county
and their activities include:
County teams
Coaching for county squads
County tournaments, Open Junior and Veterans
Referee and Marker courses
Junior beginner courses

Clubs and centres

Squash courts may be located in:
Members clubs, owned by members, non-profit making. Open to
membership and – sometimes very exclusive
Member clubs, owned by a company
Sports centres, owned by company or local authority, open to all,
may have a club within the centre
Companies. For staff, may be open at times for club or public use
Schools and Universities. For staff and students, may be open at
times for club or public use
Armed Forces and Police. For members, may be open at times for
club or public use
Courts in England 6. Information
Information and advice on all matters concerned with squash in the
2,500
British Isles, can be obtained from:
England Scotland
Squash Rackets Association Scottish SRA
PO Box 52 Caledonia House
Manchester South Gyle
M12 5FF Edinburgh
2,000 Tel: 0161 231 4499 EH12 9DQ
Fax: 0161 231 4231 Tel: 0131 317 7343
Fax: 0131 317 7249

Wales
Squash Wales Ireland
1,500 P.O. Box 56 Irish Squash
Penarth House of Sport
Cardiff Long Mile Road
CF6 1XP Dublin 12
Tel: 01633 682 108 Tel: +353 1450 1564
Fax: +353 1450 2805
irishsquash@aircom.net
1,000 www.irishsquash.com

500

Member Company Sports Schools and Armed Forces

Owned Owned Centres Universities and Police Companies
Member Clubs

Figure 8.3 Where the courts are


Unit 9
Current Issues in Sport: Squash
Drug Abuse
Introduction. Drug abuse is the use by, or the distribution to players
of certain specified substances which could have the effect of
artificially improving his/her physical and/or mental condition and
thereby augmenting performance.
The abuse of drugs in sport destroys the whole ethos of competition
amongst humans using their natural physical and mental resources.
Apart from contravening the true meaning of sport, drug abuse can
lead to acute, potentially-fatal health hazards and possibly chronic
disability.
Regulations. Drug abuse in Squash is strictly forbidden and since
1985, the SRA has organised random testing of competitors at major
events and a training sessions.
Banned Substances. These fall into three main groups – stimulants,
narcotic analgesics and anabolic steroids.
1. Stimulants. For example, amphetamine and caffeine. The effects of
such drugs is to increase alertness and reduce fatigue and as such
override the body’s natural responses. One problem with this type of
substance is that it is commonly found in some medication, for
example cold cures, which may be bought over the counter. The
Sports Council produces a list of the medication to be avoided by
those players who are participating in sport.
2. Narcotic analgesics. For example, codeine. As a powerful pain
killer this type of drug would allow players to exert themselves beyond
the point of intolerable pain, possibly resulting in permanent damage.
3. Anabolic steroids. For example, stanazolol and testosterone. These
drugs can stimulate muscle growth and increase competitiveness.
They can also have adverse effects on both the sexual development
and future well-being of users. They also have some long-term side
effects which are well documented in the Iiterature.*
Other drugs and techniques. These include beta blockers, diuretics
and "blood doping". Usage of all these three are well documented and
further details may be found in the recommended text.*
Testing. The use of banned substances is established by taking and
testing a urine sample from the player. In the event of a positive
sample, further samples are taken to verify the first findings. Refusal
to submit to testing is taken as a positive result.
Since the programme started in 1985, the only positive results in
Squash players have been traced to preparations given to players for
existing medical conditions and to date no one has been penalised for
drug abuse. This does not mean that the problem does not exist in
Squash or might not appear in the future, therefore the SRA continues
with a random testing programme.
Penalties. An individual found to be taking banned substances may
be barred for life from competing in any championship sanctioned by
the SRA. In certain circumstances a lesser penalty might be imposed.
*See Drugs in Sport, Edited by D. R. Mottram, EFN. SPON, LONDON
1988.
45
Women and Girls
Introduction. This is a very topical issue in squash. A decision was
made in 1986, to unite the women's and men's association to form
one association to look after all the interests of squash players in
England.
Fewer women than men, for a number of reasons, take part in the
game of squash, or indeed in sport in general.
Squash has benefited from an increase in indoor sport participation
and currently 25% of all squash players are women.
Physical Differences After the age of 10 there are marked differences
in the physical characteristics and physiological capacities of women
and men, with women being smaller, less muscular and slower.
Having a higher percentage of body fat and wider hips make it more
difficult for women to transmit power to the legs. However, a sport
such as squash, where the racket is light and the court is small, is
ideal for female participation. While most tournament play is
organised on a single-sex basis, most club leagues are now largely
open to both men and women on the basis of the ability to compete.
In addition to this the winning team of the boys’ section of the London
Schools’ Competition in 1989 was captained by a girl who played at
number 2.
Sex Typing The concept of the woman’s place being in the home,
and sport not being suitable for young girls is largely a thing of the
past. However, there are communities where such opinions are still
held. It would appear that for girls to have a chance of succeeding in
squash they require very strong parental support. A survey of junior
squash (1996) showed that all but 5% of all young female players
came from squash-playing families.
Facilities The Sex Discrimination Act of 1975 specifically excluded
from its provision activities where women were at a physical
disadvantage. Squash clubs, unlike some sports facilities, allow
equal access to both men and women. However, the lack of créches
frequently creates a barrier for mothers of very young children.
The media. The media are frequently guilty of trivializing women’s
sport by the emphasis which it places on non-relevant aspects of
female competition. Newspapers give far fewer column centimetres to
women’s sport than to men’s and again stress the non-essential
aspects such as clothing and general appearance.
Sponsorship. Despite the fact that the England women’s team is
number one in the world, while the men’s are ranked third, there is far
more money put by sponsors into men’s Squash. Sponsors are
influenced by the amount of media coverage they can expect, and
again the men’s sport can provide far greater coverage than the
women’s. This is further emphasised by the fact that prize money in
championships is less (75%) for women players.
Conclusion. Women’s Squash in England is in a strong position and
hopefully success at the highest levels of competition will encourage
young players to participate in the game at school, club and higher
levels.
 46
Sponsorship
Why do companies sponsor sport?
1. Contact through direct mail with a known type of customer.
2. Advertising through press and TV coverage and at the events.
3. Improving the company image and helping the local community.
4. Providing entertainment for company employees through special deals of
admission to events.
5. Enthusiasm on the part of a company director for a specific sport.

As a result most sponsorship goes to sports which command large press and
TV coverage and also into events for top players; for example it is very hard to
interest sponsors in low-level participation or developmental programmes.

Squash has been relatively successful in obtaining sponsorship. Below is a list

of sponsors, their business, and the event which they sponsor, or did sponsor.

Company Business Event

Hi tech Sports shoes British Open
Inter-City British Rail National Champs
American Express Charge card Premier & National leagues
Reebok Sports shoes Coaches Register and
Competition, Junior
scholarships
Dunlop Sports equipment National Schools Champs
Nat West Clearing bank National Junior boys
Berni Hotel/restaurants Inter club
ICI “Perspex” Multinational company World Open (men)
Evening Standard Newspaper National doubles
Trust House Forte Hotels/leisure Club leagues
Head Sports Equipment Coaches Register and
Coaching programme
Woolwich Building Society Junior Skills Awards

Most sponsorship agreements last for three years which give time for the
competition to develop and become identified with the sponsoring company’s
name.

Is Squash a Dangerous Sport?

Introduction. From time to time there are alarming reports in the It is now mandatory for players up to U19, competing in either the
press about the dangers from participation in sport. Some sports are WSF or ESR singles game events, to wear eye protection. The use of
plainly more dangerous than others, but even minor injuries account eye protection is also incorporated in the rules of the doubles game
for a certain amount of time off work and may use a lot of NHS time. for ALL players.

Squash Dangers. Most squash injuries are simple muscle and tendon
tears and minor cuts and bruises but there are more serious accidents
which can occur.
(i) Eye damage from a squash ball in the eye can be serious and
teachers need to stress the safety instructions. It is tactically
important to watch your opponent hit the ball from behind you.
However this could be dangerous. Juniors and adults are encouraged
to wear eye protection, particularly during their initial coaching stage.
Fight for Sight (020 7608 4000) is the country's leading charity in the
battle against blindness and has teamed up with the SRA to launch the
Fight for Sight Squash Challenge. The aim of the challenge is to raise
awareness of the need for squash players to protect their sight while
playing and to promote the British standard for squash. Dunlop
Slazenger and Prince have both recently met the British standard with
the design of their respective eye protection.
As from September 1999, U19 competitors in all tournaments will
have to wear eye protection.
(ii) Heart failure as a result of severe exertion by a player with a heart
problem can cause collapse and death. Older players should have a
medical check before starting to play the game or after a long period
away from squash.
There have been one or two cases where a young, apparently fit player
has collapsed after playing a match. It has subsequently been found
that these players had a minor heart condition complicated by a viral
infection (‘flu). The heart muscle or the lining round the heart can be
affected by a virus and care should be taken not to allow players with
a raised temperature and suspected ‘flu to play.
In relation to the total number of playing hours the incidence of
serious injury is very small.
 47
The Media
Introduction Although squash is played by almost 1.5 million people
in the UK, it rates very little space in the press and on TV compared to
some other sports with far fewer participants (e.g. cricket, show-
jumping).

Television Squash cannot generate a great deal of spectator interest

as the court is small and even using the glass or ‘Perspex’ court only
3,000 people can watch a game. This factor does not seem to have
discouraged the TV companies from showing for instance snooker or
darts.

Great advances have been with the use of a ball, which has fluorescent
dots and shows up far better on television. There is also a squash ball
designed to be used with a digital camera. The BBC has tried to
improve the quality and quantity of coverage of the game of squash.

Recently, the men have changed to playing with a lower tin height and
using the PARS (point a rally scoring) system, which has made the
game more interesting for the viewer.

Newspapers There is far more and better reporting of squash events

now in the national papers but even at the height of the squash
season, the game rates minute – compared to football – coverage.

Financial Aspects
Introduction The Association has a vital function in organising events
at all levels, training coaches and other officials, developing junior
squash and arranging many other activities to promote the game.

The income of the SRA comes from sponsors, the Sports Council and
from players through club and individual membership.

Collecting from the Clubs Although some other sports (tennis and
golf) seem to be able to collect much larger annual fees from all
players through their clubs, this has proved difficult in squash.

Other Income Unlike some other sports. e.g. tennis and football,
which have huge numbers of spectators for events, the maximum
numbers even for the final of the Britain Open, is 3,000 and most
events break even or make a small loss.

The SRA collects some income from coaching course fees, selling
goods and a few sources, but this hardly covers its costs.

Solving the Problem The Squash players themselves are the people
who can and should support the game but how to achieve this has
been the subject of much discussion over the years.

It has been suggested that some method of player registration should

be tried.

Other countries (Australia and New Zealand) collect fees from all
players competing in inter-club leagues but they have much bigger
competitions which involve most of the players. A similar system
would not work so well here as only a minority take part in these
competitions.
 48
Unit 10
Squash in the Olympics
Squash doubles was very successfully introduced into the Commonwealth
Games in 1999. It is hoped that Squash will soon be an Olympic Sport.
Squash has been an open game since 1980 with amateur and professional
players able to collect fees for playing, coaching or writing about the
game. Until a few years ago this would have presented a problem and
been against the Olympic ideals.
It is now accepted that Olympic competitors can earn money which is paid
into trust funds for their use and few are not in some way making a living
out of the sport.
The WSF is trying to persuade Olympic authorities to include Squash as
an exhibition sport at the games and hope this will lead to its inclusion
in future.
The extra publicity, extra funding from the Sports Council and other
sources which go to Olympic sports are probably the biggest attractions.
Why Olympic sports should attract extra funds from government sources
is hard to understand but Squash is working on the principle that ‘if you
can’t beat them, join them’.

The Disabled in Squash

Many groups with disabilities can and do play Squash, but their
participation is limited by access problems and the nature of the game.
Squash court doors are too narrow for most wheelchairs which might in
any case damage the unsealed wooden floor and this makes the game
unsuitable for wheelchair users.
A number of players with single arm or leg amputations do play Squash
and the rules allow a one-armed player to throw the ball in the air for
service, using the racket.
Hand/eye co-ordination and movement are needed in Squash but adapting
the game by using larger-headed rackets and bigger, softer and slower
balls can make the game accessible to some mentally and physically
handicapped people.
There are a great many deaf Squash players, some of whom have reached
a very high level and the game is very suitable for them as little
communication is required. Problems over understanding of refereeing
decisions do occur and the Association is currently exploring ways of
using hand signals to indicate essential calls.
Playing and coaching courses for the deaf and other handicapped groups
are organised in various parts of the country, many of them through
‘Friends for the Young Deaf’ which is dedicated to improving links with the
hearing community through sport.

Is Squash an expensive sport?

In local authority sports centres it often costs three times as much to play
Squash for forty minutes as it does to swim for an unlimited time.
Squash court hire charges are not related to the cost of the facility or to
the charges for other sports. For example to hire a sports hall for
Badminton or other activities is usually charged at a rate which is in effect
subsidised by the local authority through the community charge.
Providing sports facilities to encourage the population to keep fit is
obviously an important national aim, but the question must be asked why
some sports should be excluded from this largesse, resulting in players
having to pay the market rate?

Squash Rackets Association
Junior Skills Award
These awards are designed to encourage young learners by testing their
ability in the basic skills of the game and understanding of rules and
tactics of Squash and mini squash.
1. There are ascending levels: Green, Blues, Red, Bronze, Sliver and Gold.
2. For Green and Blue Awards only:
a. mini squash equipment and either Squash, mini squash or foam
balls can be used
b. the measurements given are intended as a guideline only
c. testing can take place either on a Squash court or in a school hall or
gym
3. Rackets are not required for the Green Award.
4. The tester for the Green, Blue, Red and Bronze Awards can be any
person in charge of a junior group.
5. The tester for the Referee, Silver and Gold Awards must be an SRA
qualified coach (level 2 or above).
6. The skills can be included in coaching sessions, as there is no need for
the whole sets to be taken at one time.
7. All the feeding and co-operative rallies may be played with the coach or
a partner.
8. Successful players will be sent a free certificate. Please use the
certificate order form.
49
Referee Award
Score a game and write it down using a recognised system.
Question: On timings of the game and the duties of the referee and
marker and who makes what decisions.
Blue Award
1. Carry the ball on the racket for 10 metres, then return to base.
Ball to remain on racket throughout.
2. Bounce ball on racket. Aim for 6 consecutive hits.
Scoring stops when error occurs.
3. Solo continuous rally against the wall of 6 shots.
Ball to be hit above the 1 metre service line on front wall.
4. Serve from behind the 2 metre floor line to hit above the 2 metre
wall line and land in the opposite half of the court. (Partner to
catch and return ball to feeder). 4 out of 6 to pass.
5. Play a 6 shot co-operative rally with partner/coach. One bounce
on the floor only. Ball must hit the wall above the 1 metre line.

Question: Show an understanding of the correct grip.

Green Award
1. Throw a ball into the air, let it bounce once on the floor, catch it
after the bounce. 4 out of 6 to pass.
2. Throw a ball against a wall, let it bounce once on the floor, catch it
after the bounce. 4 out of 6 to pass.
3. Stand behind a 2 metre floor line, throw ball onto wall and catch it
before it bounces on the floor (i.e. on the volley). 4 out of 6 to
pass.
4. With a partner, have a six shot co-operative throw and catch rally
(e.g. ball to be thrown to wall above the 1 metre line and caught
by the partner standing behind the 2 metre floor line Ball to
bounce once only.
Bronze Award
1. Solo rally to 10 shots against front wall, above the service line.
Forehand and backhand.
2. Serve correctly from each service box, ball to hit above service
line and land in opposite back quarter of court. 4 out of 6 to pass.
3. Showing movement from the ‘T’, hit a straight drive from a simple
straight feed. Ball to land behind ‘short line’. Forehand and
backhand. 4 out of 6 to pass.
4. Return straight a simple serve (player should be able to drive the
return). 4 out of 6 to pass.

5. Play a game of ‘catch squash’ to 15 points. Point a rally scoring. 5. Showing movement from the ‘T’, play a straight drop shot to land
No rackets used. in front of a target placed 1 metre from the front wall, close to the
side wall. Coach/partner to feed for each shot. Forehand &
Question: How many times is the ball allowed to bounce on the backhand 4 out of 6 to pass.
floor?
Question: Questions on scoring points
Red Award
1. Bounce the ball on racket 10 times.

2. Solo rally of 10 shots against the wall.

3. Serve from each service box into the opposite side of the court
(not necessarily into the back quarter) 4 out of 6 to pass.

4. Hit a straight drive from a simple straight hand or racket feed.

4 out of 6 to pass.

5. Play a 10 shot co-operative rally.

Question: Name the court markings.


Silver Award
1. Serve from both sides, ball to land behind service box. 4 out of 6
to pass.
2. Play a co-operative 10 shot straight rally behind the short line. All
shots to land in correct half of the court and both players moving
to the ‘T’. Forehand and backhand.
3. Straight volley return of serve from both sides. Ball to land behind
short line. Forehand and backhand. 4 out of 6 to pass.
4. Play a boast from a cross court feed (feed to side wall behind
short line). Forehand and backhand. 4 out of 6 to pass.
5. Play a straight drop from boast feed. Ball to bounce no more than
two racket lengths from front wall and must stay close to side
wall. Target area to be marked out on floor by coach/teacher.
Forehand and backhand. 4 out of 6 to pass.
Question: On service rules and hitting opponent with the ball.
50
Gold Award
1. Play a 10 shot co-operative rally with a partner, of boast and
straight drive. Change places after 10 shots. Forehand and
backhand.
2. Play cross court lob from a simple boast. Coach/teacher to judge
if lob is acceptable. Ball should go very high and land in opposite
back corner. Forehand and backhand. 4 out of 6 to pass.
3. Solo VOLLEY rally of 10 consecutive shots from behind the short
line. Forehand and backhand.
4. Play a 10 shot co-operative rally of cross court length, straight
length and boast. Forehand and backhand.
5. Play a 10 shot co-operative rally of boast, straight drop and
straight drive. Forehand and backhand.
Question: On the interference rule
 51

Attendance Sheet & Certificate Order Form – Junior Skills Awards

Green, Blue, Red, Bronze, Referee, Silver, Gold

SKILLS

Name Address Date of Colour 1 2 3 4 5 (Pass) Finish Date

(block capitals) (Including post code) (block capitals) Birth Award Rules

1 Any Street, Middle Town.

A N Other
1AB 2CD 27.6.80 Blue ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 21.3.92

Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS

Tester ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Qualification ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Address ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Postcode ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Club/School ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Address ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ Postcode ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Please give number of certificates required: Green ○ ○ Blue ○ ○ ○ Red ○ ○ ○ Bronze ○ ○ ○ Referee ○ ○ ○ Silver ○ ○ ○ Gold ○ ○ ○

Signed ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Return this form to: SRA, P.O. Box 1106, London, W3 0ZD
Please enclose a large self addressed envelope