good on you and well done vitty
your post had a genuine ring of excitement - it was great to hear!! keep it up!

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So,the result is...6th (of 12 players).But there´s more to say.
We were divided into 3 groups,each 4 players.First match I won 9-4,9-0,no problem at all.The second was 4-9,9-3,9-4.Third 9-1,9-2.So I won my group and then to quarterfinal.I felt relaxed,everything was OK.But bad luck - my opponent was probably the worst guy I could play with.He served like in tennis,very,very,very hard...One guy said "this isn´t squash",hmm,but it worked.First game I lost 1-9.It was very difficult to return the serve down the wall.In the second game I tried to volley the serves (not easy),keep the ball in play and wait for unenforced error.It worked! 7-5,7-7,8-7 for me.Then I executed nice volley-dropshot aimed at nick,but...TIN.8-8 (set two),8-9,9-9,9-10.(This guy was eventually 2nd)
Next match I won in 3 games,but I had ugly cramp in my calf.
In the last match I couldn´t make two fast steps,so I lost 1-9,3-9.
It was a great experience for me.It could be better,I know.So, "Iˇll be back!"
Vitty

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Hi Rita and Ray,
thank you very much for your help.The tournament begins in 10 days (Saturday 24th).
My basic plan is simple:
- try to control the T
- good tight lenghts is the basis
- attack only if it´s clear winner (or "don´t play risky,be patient")
- try to play more lobs (especially on opponents backhand - I think it´s the most difficult shot)
- volley if it´s possible (but only if it´s a good one)
- try not to be nervous (my big problem :-))

About the grip - it´s OK,I´ve new Karakal PU over the original grip.
Just one thing I want to mention - I eventually stopped smoking, because of squash.I feel great on the court now (more breath,more stamina and better feeling at all).
I´m looking forward to play - I want to valorize my pains !
Vitty

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hi vitty

check out this thread. Activities Between Games. This may help you. it also includes a report on slavis first tournament. Also, a few things that may not be covered:

• if there are a lot of games on the day, make sure you stay warm between games
  
• shower/change sweaty clothing - it is very easy to stiffen up you may need a few changes of clothes and towels
  
• make sure the grip on your racket is the correct size. it can get very sweaty dring a long day's play and may be harder to hold on to if too small -check the squashgame library for guidance
  
• stay well hydrated and use electrolytes (most popular sports drinks are ok (not red bull etc)keep off the alchohol. take in plenty of carbs (fruit etc is very good)
  
• if you have a couple of losses, don't lose heart - keep trying to the last point of the last game

have fun and let us know how you go!

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Hi Vitty -
Firstly, enjoy your game. Don't expect too much of yourself. It is difficult to tell you exactly what to do as you can only attempt to do things you are confident about in your play.There are lots of areas on this site that will help you set some preparation ideas. Keep it simple. A match involves some components from each of the following areas:-

1.Skill Preparation, eg the basic swing, strokes, targets.

2.Physical Preparation,eg warmups, stretching.

3.Mental Preparation, eg control your thoughts, nervousness, anxiousness.

4.Tactical Preparation, eg game plan, length, aiming for the corners.

The tab Preparation/Stretches will be a good place to start reading, or search each of the above area. When you have a basic plan just put it in the forum and I will help further.
It is just a learning curve. Good luck.

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