Starting The Point Off To Win:

The point starts with a serve; it continues into a rally for position; and

then either you or your opponent finishes the point with a winner or a

mistake. Let's discuss how you should start a point.

The point starts with a serve. This makes the serve important, but many

squash players focus on the wrong aspect of the serve. I have seen players

try to get their serves tighter and tighter. But, you should know that

developing an ace serve is a waste of time. A good serve should be hit close

to the walls to restrict your opponent's swing. That is all. Nowhere will you

find that you need to develop a service ace. You should concentrate more on

your opponent's return. You need to differentiate a rail return from a

crosscourt or a drop. What I'm getting at, is that, squash serves don't count

as much as reading your opponent's return of serve and the way you prepare

for the return.

The best way to prepare for a service return is to get in the crouch

position. Get ready to pounce on the ball and make sure your opponent sees

this.

It'll add mental pressure to his or her return. Mental pressure works best

when your opponent sees you hovering on the "T" in the crouch position right

after a tight serve. Try it!