Participating in tournament squash is a privilege that should be viewed and valued as such by parents, players, and coaches alike. As a coach, I often see families feeling confined by the US Squash tournament structure, which can create pressure to keep up, and a fear of falling behind. Tournament squash is a choice, and it can be approached on a gradient, it’s not all or nothing.
That choice comes with a very real opportunity cost beyond the obvious financial burden and time commitment. Too often, enjoyment and long-term player development are sacrificed chasing points, adopting a must-win-now mentality, and the vague idea of “gaining experience” at tournaments.
Extended travel means days lost to travel and recovery, and what can begin as exciting and novel experiences can become a draining and monotonous cycle.
What I Suggest (and What I’m Doing with My Own Kids)
- Limit travel tournaments: Max four or five tournaments per year in U11, with only regional play. Aim to limit # of events at all ages.
- Play locally: Compete at your home club, join adult tournaments, and play in leagues.
- Focus on fundamentals: Prioritize long-term skill development — technique, shot-making, and creative play.
- Remain a multisport athlete: Avoid early specialization.
- Squash 2 days/week at U11, increasing to 3 days/week at U13.
- Other sports (Soccer/Basketball/Baseball/Ski) 3-4 days/week.
- Perspective: If you think this approach is too little squash to be successful — remember that the goal is to be an excellent player in U17/U19, not to be the best U11 player!
A Personal Example
In September, I asked my son if he wanted to play the US Junior Open in December just before christmas. I explained that it was a big trip, it would be expensive and inconvenient, and wanted to see if he thought he was ready to play in a big event like that. My hope was that he would be excited by the opportunity and motivated by the challenge of competing and watching some of the best juniors in the world. But I also wanted to stress to him that it was his choice if we went or not, and that the trip was a big deal, it wasn’t just a given that we’d go.
He was fired up about the idea, and I could see the seed was planted in his mind that we had enough time to train for it, it wasn’t just another tournament in a week or two. We set three clear goals for improvement, and with three months prep with no other tournaments, I have given him enough time and freedom to work on those specific areas without pressure to perform. I’m excited to see him realize how far he’s come in those areas by the time we get there!
If you’re reading this and want to discuss these ideas, come find me in Philly or drop me a reply!
Julian Illingworth