SQUASH IS A GAME, IT IS NOT A JOB!! At its core, squash should always be fun. Most kids start playing because they enjoy it—and that enjoyment should remain the driving force behind their involvement. When the fun fades, motivation and growth often follow.
- AS A PARENT, IT’S IMPORTANT TO:
- Downplay the tough days and highlight the positive moments.
- Encourage balance by making space for non-squash activities during tournaments, visit local attractions, relax, or spend time and have meals with other families.
- Help your child build friendships with other players; it promotes empathy and reduces the sense of “opponent is an enemy” and let them hang out with their friends away from you, where safe and age appropriate.
- These off-court moments often become the highlights of a tournament weekend, and can help put tough match results into perspective.
2. FOCUS ON CHARACTER:
- Ask yourself:
“Do I like the person my child is becoming through squash?” - Squash, like all sports, tests players emotionally and ethically. Parents play a critical role in helping their children grow through those challenges.
- For example, honesty during matches – such as making fair calls – is a key area where moral development happens.
- Reinforce the value of integrity over winning.
- Make clear that cheating, no matter the pressure, is unacceptable.
- Emphasize that sportsmanship, fairness, and respect are the true markers of success.
3. IT’S YOUR CHILD’S JOURNEY:
- Squash is for your child, not for you.
- Be mindful not to project your own unmet goals or competitive drive onto your child’s experience. Their journey should be guided by their passion, goals, and growth, not by external pressure or a parent’s need for validation.
- Ultimately, your support should help them become a confident, ethical, and joyful person – on and off the court.
