Junior Programs
If you want to learn more about our developmental pathway, please click HERE. We invite you to explore all of our programs and join our community of passionate squash enthusiasts!
The 412 Squash Team!
Recreational Phase
Goals:
The goal of the recreational phase is to help beginner and intermediate players build a strong foundation and develop a lasting connection to the sport. These players are encouraged to engage with squash on a consistent, seasonal basis while learning essential skills, basic strategies, and the enjoyment of competition in a supportive environment.
As students gain confidence, they work toward playing a variety of shots from different areas of the court and begin to feel more comfortable and excited about match play. The emphasis is on consistent practice, skill development, and creating a fun and motivating atmosphere that supports long-term participation and growth.
Programs:
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Workshops
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Future Champs Clinic
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Private Lessons
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Court Rentals
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Semi-Private Lessons
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Seasonal Weekly Pod Lessons
Themes:
Juniors in the recreational phase are developing confidence withe the core skills and concept of squash. At this stage, players can execute a range of fundamental shots, including forehand and backhand drives. volleys, serves, and return of serves. As they progress, they can also begin to incorporate drop shots and boasts into their game.
These players are building a working understanding of footwork, positioning, and shot selection - learning when to attack and when to play more defensively. They also gain confidence in scoring, court etiquette, and playing full games. The focus is on building technical skills, strategic awareness, and enjoyment of the sport in a supportive, developmental-focused environment.
Areas needed to improve:
Students in the recreational phase are continuing to develop key areas of their game as they build consistency and confidence on court. Areas of focus include improving shot selection and ball control under pressure, as well as learning to assert themselves on the T and volley with greater intention.
As they progress, players work on retrieving difficult shots, especially from high volley positions and the back corners of the court, while also learning to construct rallies and adjust tactics during match play. Developing these skills will help them to become more confident in both offensive and defensive situations and better prepared for competitive play as they advance.
Programs to advance in recreational phase:
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Seasonal Future Champs Clinic
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Weekly Private Lessons
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Unstructured Open Play
Time required to advance:
To make steady progress in the recreational phase, students should participate in at least one full season of programming, ideally playing 1-3 times per week. depending on their level and goals.
Beginner players benefit from 1-2 sessions per week to build foundational skills and confidence, whole more experienced recreational players are encouraged to play 2-3 times per week across two or more seasons to reinforce technique, improve match play, and prepare for potential advancement into the competitive phase. Consistency and engagement over time are key to growth at this level.
Competitive Phase:
Goals:
The goal of students in the competitive phase of their squash journey is to take ownership of their development by integrating advanced skills and tactics into their game. These players train in a highly structured environment, play consistently, and are capable of executing a full range of shots. Many have experience in tournament play and are committed to applying themselves both on and off the court to take their game to the next level. This phase supports athletes in sharpening technical execution, developing strategic awareness, and working toward their highest potential in competitive settings.
Programs:
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Academy Squads Clinics
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Seasonal Weekly Private Lessons
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Seasoned Weekly Semi-Private Lessons
Themes:
Juniors in the competitive phase of their squash development can confidentially execute and cover all major shots on the court. At this stage, players are focused on advancing their game through more refined strategy, improved shot selection, and greater tactical awareness. Training emphasizes mastering ball control, recognizing and responding to patterns of play, anticipating opponent's shots, and constructing purposeful rallies to gain positional advantage.
In addition to technical and tactical work, players begin to develop the ability to perform under pressure with increased consistency. Sessions incorporate movement efficiency, body control, and early exposure to mental skills that support focus and resilience during match play. The goal is to build strong competitive habits and prepare players to succeed in tournament environments while continuing to grow all aspects of their game.
Areas needed to improve:
Students in the competitive phase are actively learning to apply greater nuance and intentionality to their game. This includes developing the ability to use deception, varied shots, height, weight, and spin, as well as managing tempo and pace to disrupt opponents and gain control of rallies.
At this stage, players are also building their ability to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents and adjust their game plans accordingly. While they are beginning to understand how to design and implement tactical strategies, continued growth is needed in recognizing patterns during match play and making in-game adjustments.
In addition, students are learning to set short-term goals and reflect more intentionally on their match performance with guidance from coaching staff. These habits are critical in helping players being to take ownership of their preparation, mindset, and match readiness as they grow into more advanced competitors.
Programs to advance in the competitive phase:
To continue progressing in the competitive phase, students benefit from a well-rounded training structure that supports both technical development and competitive growth. Key components include:
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Seasonal academy clinics that focus on drills, strategy, and playing shots under pressure
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Weekly private lessons to refine technique, grip, and swing path through individualized attention
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Unstructured open play, including court rentals and solo practice, which builds ball control, consistency, and confidence in executing all shots
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Competitive match opportunities to apply physical and mental skills, gain tournaments experience, and learn to adapt to a variety of opponents and playing conditions
At this stage, students are also encouraged to start taking more responsibility for their preparation. This includes maintaining healthy routines, reflecting on their development, and becoming more intentional about their growth as athletes. While not yet expected to fully self-manage, building these habits is essential for long-term success and progression to the next level.
Time Commitment:
Processing through the competitive phase requires consistent, year-round training with a recommended commitment of 4-5 days per week. This includes a mix of coached sessions, match play, and time for individual development such as solo hitting and unstructured open play to reinforce technique and shot variety.
At this level, players begin to understand the importance of balancing training volume with recovery and developing productive routines. While top-tier habits such as daily solo practice and ghosting may be introduced, the primary focus remains on building consistency, technical execution, and competitive experience through regular, structured engagement with the sport.
