Squash: Steps to Success (Steps to Success Activity Series)

Participation in squash is growing rapidly with 15 million players in more than 100 countries around the world. According to the U.S. Squash Association, the international "softball" version has become the dominant game in the U.S. as well because players like its high speed and long rallies. New construction, and conversion of a number of facilities to squash courts, reflects the demand for court time from new players.

Whether you're a beginning or intermediate player, with Squash: Steps to Success you'll develop solid fundamentals, progress at your own pace, learn to maneuver your opponent around the court, and compete with confidence. Author Phil Yarrow grew up playing the game in his native England. A two-time U.S. national champion and former teaching professional, Yarrow guides readers from basic strokes and court movement, to specific shots and strategies.

With 82 drills, and practice goals that challenge players as they master each skill, you'll learn the fundamentals of

- the grip and handling the racket;
- forehand and backhand swings;
- court movement and footwork;
- the volley, the serve, and return of serve;
- the boast, drop, lob, and kill shots;
- disguise and deception; and
- mental and physical preparation for match play

Part of the highly popular Steps to Success Series, this book is the single best guide to competing successfully in this action-packed sport.

Philip Yarrow began competing in and winning squash tournaments as a member of the Under 19 Junior Squad in his native England. While attending Nottingham University he was both the British and English Universities Champion. His school's team were the English Universities Team Champions for the three years he attended. Yarrow was the U.S. National Amateur Champion in 1992 and 1993 while he was also building one of the best squash programs in the country as head squash professional at Chicago's Lakeshore Athletic Club. He is recognized as the key figure in U.S. players' recent switch from the North American "hard ball" version to the international "soft ball" version of the game.

Yarrow is an English SRA (Squash Rackets Association) certified coach, an English and U.S. certified referee, and a U.S. certified referee instructor. In addition to squash, the author also plays golf and chess. He lives in Oak Park, Illinois with his wife, Virginia.