17 August 2022 / 3-Min Read / Translate↗
It was played on a proper doubles court. Which is correct and fine, but…how many of those proper doubles courts exist? I asked on Squash Stories and the only answers I got were people telling me about the ones they know about.
So here is my question: Why are we promoting a setting that is almost certainly not available for most squash players? Why not play doubles on a singles court? At least that way, if somebody sees it, they can try it.
I wonder how many other sports shown at the commonwealth have such limited availability. Showing something on TV that 99% or potential players don’t have access to seems a waste. Yes, maybe most of those people will say “Okay then, I’ll try singles”, but squash is already such a niche sport why are we making it more so?
“But it could be dangerous to play doubles on a singles court.” you say. True, but doubles is not aimed at beginners anyway. Playing singles on a singles court can be dangerous if one of the players is not aware of their surroundings. Crossing the road can be dangerous if people are not aware of their surroundings!
With nearly 40 years of squash coaching behind me, I'm convinced I can improve your squash.
Honestly, the most “fun” I had on a squash court was playing doubles. It’s such a different game, but if you are sensible and don’t hit too many crosscourts, it really isn’t dangerous. Having the “direct team experience” is something most squash players lack. I know that is inter-club squash and other team competitions, but that’s different because they are not on court with you. There’s also the point about mixed doubles, so that encourages a wider range of potential opponents.
Believe it or not, playing doubles on a singles court does help your singles game – but that’s for another article one day! Sorry to tease you.
Am I wrong? Do you see it differently? Am I missing something? I recognise that since I am no longer “Involved” in squash in the way I was when I was a professional coach, and being stuck outside of a larger squash community, my point of view might be “uninformed”. if so, feel free to correct me by sending me an email.