With its roots traced back to 1830s England (and prior to that a brief spell in the form of the game ‘Rackets’ played by inmates in London prisons), the sport of squash has a long, storied history and is now on the countdown to its 200th birthday.
As a sport that has boomed in countries ranging from Egypt to Australia, Canada to Pakistan and France to the United States, this fast-paced racquet sport is now played and adored by 20 million players across 185 countries. Today, an incredible 116 national associations belong to the World Squash Federation. And yet, in North America the game has grown in popularity ever since the first squash court arrived in the USA at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire in 1884. Further phases of American influence on the game were to come, most notably perhaps when, in 1904 in Philadelphia, the world’s earliest national association of squash, the United States Squash Racquets Association, now known as U.S. Squash, was formed.
The sport has continued to be popular in the USA - particularly the Northeast - over the years but perhaps, most interestingly, has been the surge in participation in recent years. Coming at a time when some were questioning squash’s ability to grow and its unsuccessful attempts to become an Olympic sport, squash has in many ways defied the doomsters by proving its growing popularity, and growing popularity in the world’s largest sports market, the United States no less.
The Sports & Fitness Association (SFIA) released statistics that showed an 82% growth for the sport in the USA between 2007 and 2011, resulting in more than 1.2 million squash players. Participation in junior squash events was also found to have increased 400% in the same period with more than 1,500 young people vying for national interscholastic championships annually.
Furthermore, squash can boast an engaged and passionate playing community. In a 2013 survey by US Squash, more than 90% of respondents were found to play frequently, and 65% have played for more than 10 years. Not bad for a sport that’s, well, certainly not new!
So, what can we put squash’s newfound lease of life in the United States down to?
- Accessibility and Inclusivity
One of the driving forces behind the growth of squash is surely the sport's increasing accessibility and inclusivity. Traditionally considered an elite sport, squash has been breaking down barriers in recent years with many clubs introducing more flexible membership options and pricing structures, making the sport more accessible to a wider range of people. Additionally, organizations like Squash and Education Alliance (SEA) have been working to bring squash programs to underprivileged communities, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sport for more than 2,000 young people.
- Collegiate Squash Programs
Collegiate squash programs have played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport among young adults. Many universities and colleges now offer varsity and club squash teams, providing students with opportunities to learn and compete. These programs have not only nurtured young talents but also created a sense of community around squash on campuses.
- Professional Squash Tournaments
The USA has become an increasingly attractive destination for professional squash tournaments. Cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Chicago have hosted major international squash events (often in iconic locations such as New York City’s annual Tournament of Champions played at Grand Central Station), drawing top-ranked players from around the world. These tournaments not only showcase the sport's elite talent but also inspire local players and fans to become more involved in squash.
- Grassroots Initiatives
Numerous grassroots initiatives and organizations are actively promoting squash at the community level. Programs like Urban Squash, which offer mentorship, academic support, and squash coaching to underserved youth, have been instrumental in introducing the sport to a new generation.
- Improved Facilities and Technology
The growth of squash is closely tied to the development of modern squash facilities and advancements in technology. State-of-the-art squash courts, equipped with glass walls and digital scoring systems, have become more prevalent, enhancing the overall playing experience. Moreover, similar to how other traditional sports have reinvented themselves, video analysis tools and coaching apps have made it easier for players to refine their skills and track their progress.
- Social and Physical Benefits
Squash offers a unique blend of social interaction and physical fitness, making it an attractive option for people of all ages. Many individuals are drawn to the sport because it provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while also offering the opportunity to connect with others – and all this in an era where more focus is being places on the importance of physical and mental wellbeing.
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