The strategy in Squash Tennis is basically
the same as Squash Racquets; i.e., to control
the so-called “T” or the intersection of
the service court lines, by keeping your opponent
up front, off to the sides, or behind you, the majority
of the time.
The fundamental stratagem can only
be carried out by your learning a wide assortment
of Squash Tennis shots and perfecting your repertoire
with practice and experience against many different
types of opponents under competitive situations.
You will have to fight and play hard
for this position. Always head for the “T”
immediately after hitting the ball, but taking care
not to interfere with your opponent’s stroke.
All of your shots should be hit with
a purpose, which is to keep your opponent off balance,
away from the “T,” and of course, eventually
to defeat him. Change of pace, therefore, is
of utmost importance. Break up your opponent’s
rhythm, never allow him to get grooved, frequently
do the unexpected, so that he loses confidence in
his anticipation and, subsequently, goes on the defensive.
At all times be offensive. The
game of Squash Tennis has known many so-called “great
getters,” but they invariably have succumbed
to “purposeful power” and the aggressively
angled shots of players with the burning desire to
win, “the killer instinct” that spurs the
great players to go all out for every point.
Play each point like an individual
match. Don’t let up or intentionally “throw”
a game. Squash Tennis, as with all racquet games,
is a sport of momentum. Many a tide has changed,
many a match won when seemingly it has been hopelessly
lost. Go after every point as though you were
down Match Point and had to win it. “Coasting”
shatters your concentration, and lost concentration
can well mean a lost match. Play to win as quickly
as you can.
Finally, assume your opponent will
retrieve even your best shots. Don’t underestimate
his ability or overestimate your shot-making prowess.
Remember the speed of the ball actually gives your
opponent more time to get to it. Always be ready
for anything until the ball is actually ruled dead
and the rally has ended.