Just playing lenghts? Volley like a goalkeeper
While it is important to be able to play a great length shot, don’t get stuck here. Too often I have seen players missing opportunities to attack because they got stuck in playing lengths. Relying on them exclusively can keep you stuck in neutral. In this post, we’re diving into why it’s time to mix up your game, volley like a goalkeeper, and start finishing rallies with style.
Playing Long: It’s Important, But It’s Not Everything
Let’s start with the basics. Hitting the ball long and deep is a huge part of squash—it’s like the bread and butter of any rally. But if all you’re doing is smashing the ball to the back of the court every time, it’s not exactly a winning strategy. It’s like playing chess and only moving your pawns—sure, it’s a move, but it won’t checkmate anyone.
The Real Goal: Setting Up for Attack
Drives and length shots are essential, yes, but only because they set you up for more aggressive play. When your opponent returns a weak shot after one of your drives, don’t just send it back with another straight drive.
That’s your chance to attack! Go for a drop shot, a short shot—anything that shifts the game in your favor. There’s no need to drag out the rally if you can end it on your terms. Think of it like a boxing match: you jab to create an opening, but the knockout punch is what wins.
Why Death by Drive is a Myth
Sure, sometimes long rallies are necessary, especially if you’re waiting for your opponent to make an error. But that shouldn’t be your go-to game plan. Trust me, boring your opponent with endless drives isn’t going to win you matches.
Squash is a dynamic, fast-paced game, and if you’re not playing with variety, you’re setting yourself up for frustration. The real key is knowing when to go short and when to mix it up.
Volley Like a Goalkeeper
Now, here’s where the real fun begins.
Think of volleying like you’re a goalkeeper, swatting balls out of the air with quick reflexes and precision. You’re not just there to catch and return the ball passively—you’re on the attack, intercepting those high balls and sending them back with intent.
The faster you can volley the ball before it hits the back wall, the more pressure you put on your opponent. They won’t have time to settle into their shots, and you’ll be dictating the pace. It’s not just about keeping the ball alive; it’s about being aggressive and cutting off their options.
Every volley is an opportunity to turn defense into attack, and if you play like a goalkeeper, you’re always one step ahead.
Adapt or Be Left Behind
Here’s the thing: squash has changed. The game is more aggressive than many years ago.
If you’re stuck in the “length is life” mindset, you’re going to get left behind. Sure, the straight drive might win you a point here or there, but without deception or variety, it’s not going to be the game-winner you need.
Also, if your thinking is to just outlast your opponent on the court, remember that the higher level of squash you are playing, the fitter your opponents are also likely to be. Therefor it is important to learn how to finish a rally, not just play lengths until your opponent is bored.
It’s Not Just About Youth vs. Experience
We’ve all seen it: a younger, fitter, technically better player losing to a crafty old veteran who looks like they’ve barely stretched.
How?
The older player knows they can’t keep up physically, so they play smarter, using every trick in the book—short shots, slower balls, mixing up the pace. Meanwhile, the younger player is running around, working twice as hard for half the points.
This is proof that squash isn’t just about physicality; it’s about being smart and finishing rallies efficiently.
Teach the Next Generation to Finish
What if we started teaching young players how to finish rallies from day one?
Imagine if they knew how to use little boasts, tricky spins, and clever wristy shots from the start.
By the time they hit a higher level, they’d have the skills to attack, not just rely on their fitness. And trust me, the sooner they learn, the better—because there will always come a day when pure speed and endurance just won’t cut it anymore.
Don’t Just Play the Long Game—Learn to End It
To wrap it up, playing long shots is important, but it’s not the whole game. You’ve got to know how to finish. The straight drive might help you survive, but it won’t make you a winner.
So next time you’re on the court, volley like a goalkeeper and look for every opportunity to finish the rally. Your future self will thank you!
