It’s important to DEMONSTRATE everything that you verbally explain, so that your beginner players understand and can SEE what they are expected to do.
SHOTS:
Ball bounces and mini solo skills exercises will teach juniors the fundamentals of hitting and controlling the squash ball.
TECHNICAL:
- Hold the racket with a reasonable grip and racquet face open to achieve control in mini skills exercises.
- Lunging for a good, low position.
- Have the juniors practice stepping in and doing an ‘air’ swing without the ball.
- Ensure plenty of space between the players before they start this exercise.
TACTICAL:
Learning basic levels of tactics through the mini games.
KEY POINTS:
✓ Coach should correct the grip and swing throughout the lesson, but NOT focus too much on this as the players are just starting out and are likely to get frustrated if they feel they need to get it perfect at the start.
✓ Don’t forget to let them know when they are doing it right!!
✓ Constant positive reinforcement is crucial for building confidence.
✓ Coach should demonstrate for those struggling and use other players as good examples.
TIPS: Explaining and demonstrating the BASIC technique at the start of the lesson is a great way to get the players understanding, engaged and confident in what they need to do.
- POINTS TO MENTION:
- Correct grip
- Early racket preparation
- Stand sideways, facing the side wall
- Stepping in with the appropriate leg
- Balanced body position when hitting the ball if possible
