Squash: An Introduction

Squash: An Introduction

A fast-paced indoor racket sport, squash demands speed, strategy, and stamina in a confined court. Here is a brief introduction to squash.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Squash is a racket sport played by two or four players in a four-walled court, where players alternate hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall. Squash is a highly competitive, physically demanding sport with global appeal, a rich history, and growing popularity as both a recreational and professional game.

Origins

  • Early Development:

    • Squash originated in the early 1800s at Harrow School in England

    • Students discovered that a punctured rubber ball, when used in the game of rackets, created a slower game that required more agility and strategy

  • Name Origin:

    • The softer ball "squashed" against the wall—giving the sport its name

Spread and Standardization

  • Expansion of the Game:

    • Spread to Britain, the United States, and other Commonwealth countries through educational institutions and clubs

  • Formalization:

    • The game became more organized, with the development of squash-specific courts and equipment

    • By the early 20th century, standardized rules and court dimensions were established

  • Governance:

    • National federations formed to promote and regulate the sport in different countries

Modern Era

  • World Squash Federation (WSF):

    • Founded in 1967 (as the International Squash Rackets Federation; renamed in 1992)

    • Became the international governing body, overseeing global competition and standards

  • Professional Play:

    • Growth of professional circuits under the Professional Squash Association (PSA)

    • High-level international tournaments and rankings became widespread

  • Olympic Status:

    • Despite several bids, squash was excluded from earlier Olympic Games

    • Officially accepted for inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking a major milestone for the sport’s global recognition

 

Back to blog