Back to squash: coaching players after the summer break

Back to squash after the summer break

For many players, summer means less time on court. Whether they’ve been busy with other sports, away on holiday, or just taking a breather, the start of the new season often feels like starting from scratch. That can be frustrating for both players and coaches—but it’s also a great opportunity to reset, focus on the fundamentals, and rebuild good habits.

Here are a few key things to look out for as players return, and how you can guide them back into form.

Expect rusty habits

It’s common to see players leaning back on shots, preparing the racket too late, or spinning out of position. Follow-throughs can be inconsistent, movement sluggish, and many will fall into the trap of trying to hit too hard instead of controlling the ball.

The fix? Go back to basics. Revisit the non-negotiables—early preparation, spacing, balance, and recovery after each shot. Gentle reminders and simple drills will help players rebuild their rhythm without feeling overwhelmed.

Growth spurts and spacing

With juniors especially, don’t be surprised if their timing and spacing feel “off.” Many teenagers grow significantly over the summer, leaving them temporarily unbalanced as their muscles catch up with their new height. They may get too close to the ball or struggle to lunge smoothly.

Focus on light-footed movement, spacing drills, and controlled swings. Building confidence in their new body shape will make a big difference.

Managing fitness and fatigue

Even the fittest kids (and adults) find squash uniquely demanding after time away. Different energy systems are in play, so expect players to fatigue quickly in the first few weeks. The excitement of being back often gives way to the reality of hard work around sessions two, three, and four.

To ease the transition, incorporate conditioning through on-court drills—split steps, recovery steps, and short rallies—rather than grinding fitness work. Keep things enjoyable while gradually rebuilding endurance.

Avoiding the injury spike

One of the biggest risks when players return is overload. A child might go from very little activity to squash twice a week, school PE, sports fixtures, and tournaments—all at once. Sudden spikes in workload increase the chance of overuse injuries, especially if growth spurts have already affected strength and stability.

Track training load using a simple method: session intensity (out of 10) × session length. Increase gradually and resist the temptation to push too hard too soon.

Final thought

Coming back after a break can feel frustrating, but it’s also when smiles are biggest and enthusiasm is highest. As a coach, your role is to steady the ship: strip things back, focus on the fundamentals, and build players up with patience. Progress might feel slower than before the break—but it sets the foundation for a stronger, healthier, and more enjoyable season ahead.