Ups and Downs of Squash

Published: 03 Dec 2005 - 08:03 by rippa rit

Updated: 03 Dec 2005 - 08:07

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The Guru was spot on when he said "squash is like a see-saw". True.
Just ask the World top ranked players at the World Open in Hong Kong.
How can we explain the ups and downs? Here is some food for thought:

At a lower level the ups and downs are likely to be caused by the lack of skills practice, and the use of the skills inappropriately combined with fitness, and mental skills.

So, say, what could affect our World top 10? These are just some of the things that come to mind.

Mental strength and the ability to keep applying physical pressure over an extended tournament period.
Adjusting to the rigourous travel schedules and continually being on the move.
In foreign countries finding suitable food to satisfy the needs and replenish the fuel to keep firing day after day.
Being away from the support of family in times of stress. Emotional factors play a huge part in staying in the zone.
Recovery from injury and the ability to keep backing up after long matches.

It is not that the skills desert the players all of a sudden, but it is the ability to focus and concentrate and keep in the "zone".
It can be a struggle to keep the discipline with the many attractive outside influences all of which affect sleep, relaxation,calmness, and the list goes on.
Surviving financially, and affording the professional help when needed, eg physio.

My message here is, enjoy success, don't feel too disappointed when things go wrong, just keep refocusing on what needs to be done,and pick up your heels and keep working through the ups and downs. On a positive note, this is all character building even if you are not the number one player in the club/country.