US Squash expects good sportsmanship and fair play at all tournaments. Reviewing the player expectations below with your child will help them understand and uphold the standards of conduct that are expected.
Focus on Sportsmanship & Character
As we head into each season, sportsmanship and character are top priorities for US Squash. We want to set clear expectations for conduct at all accredited tournaments. These standards are designed to promote fair play and ensure an enjoyable, healthy, and safe environment for everyone.
US Squash, players, parents, and coaches all share responsibility for upholding the Code of Conduct and the standards of sportsmanship that make squash unique. Adhering to these expectations helps preserve the integrity of the sport and the positive experiences of all involved.
Expectations for Players: Safety, Fair Play & Sportsmanship
- Punctuality: Be ready to start your match at the scheduled time.
- Warm-up: Share the ball—two shots to yourself, then pass it to your opponent.
- Racquet Conduct: Never throw, bang, or intentionally break your racquet. Place it gently against the wall after each game.
- Respect for Referees: Accept referee decisions without questioning, explaining, or arguing.
- Match Continuity: Take no more than 90 seconds between games and return to court promptly.
- Fair Play: Keep play continuous, take a direct path to the ball, and clear your shot fully so your opponent has fair access.
- Honesty: Call your own shots down, out, or not up—“if in doubt, it’s down or out.”
- Sportsmanship: Shake hands with your opponent, marker, and referee at the end of each match.
- Refereeing: Be prepared to referee the next match within 4 minutes of finishing your own.
Expectations for Parents, Coaches, Family Members & Spectators
- Positive Support: Cheer for good play and for your player—not against the opponent.
- Respect Boundaries: Remain apart from the marker and referee during warm-up, game breaks, and throughout the match.
- No Interference: Do not interact with the referee or marker, intervene in a match, or confront officials.
- No Coaching During Matches: You may encourage your player, but do not provide coaching or tactical advice while play is in progress.
Enforcement of the Code of Conduct
Poor behavior and bad sportsmanship can negatively affect individual matches and the overall tournament experience. Over time, they can also harm the culture of the community and the perception of our sport.
Eacg season, US Squash and its tournament directors will:
- Recognize and highlight acts of good sportsmanship.
- Strictly enforce consequences for poor behavior, including “Conduct Stroke,” “Conduct Game,” and “Conduct Match” penalties.
Violations include, but are not limited to:
- Influencing the referee (arguing, questioning, or attempting to change a decision)
- Excessive or intimidating celebrations
- Racquet abuse (throwing or banging)
- Failing to return to court within 90 seconds between games
What to Expect at each Tournament Weekend
- Tournament Staff: Directors and their teams will support referees, answer rules questions, and monitor conduct.
- Reminders: Posters and handouts at facilities and the tournament desk will highlight expectations.
- Reporting: Materials will include QR codes for easy reporting of good sportsmanship and Code of Conduct violations.
