Volleying in Squash is one of the best ways to take control of a rally; you cut off your opponent’s shot early, keep the pressure on, and often win the point quicker – but there’s one secret to making volleys work: stability.
For young players, this can be tricky. It’s tempting to swing hard, rush, or throw the racket at the ball. But the best volleys come from calm, balanced movements – not panic.
Why Stability Is Like Superpowers
Imagine you’re riding a scooter. If you’re wobbling everywhere, it’s hard to steer and you might fall. But if you’re steady, you can glide smoothly wherever you want.
Volleying in Squash is the same:
- Wobble = weak shot.
- Stable = strong, accurate shot.
When you’re stable, you don’t just hit the ball better – you also recover faster and get back to the T before your opponent can attack.
The Stability Checklist for Young Players
1. Feet First
Your feet are your base. Stay on the balls of your feet, ready to spring. Think “bouncy” rather than flat. Try imagining you’re standing on hot sand – light and quick!
2. Bend Those Knees
If your legs are stiff and straight, you’ll wobble. Bending your knees gives you balance and power. It’s like shock absorbers on a bike.
3. Step Into the Shot
Don’t just wave the racket at the ball. Step forward with the opposite foot to your racket hand. This makes your volley stronger and steadier.
4. Keep Your Swing Compact
On a volley, there’s no time for a big backswing. Keep your racket short and sharp – think of it like a “tap” rather than a “whack”.
5. Balance with Your Free Arm
Your other arm is not just hanging around – use it for balance! Stretch it slightly to the side, like a tightrope walker keeping steady.
6. Stay Relaxed
If you’re tense, your movements will be jerky and unstable. Relax your shoulders and breathe. A calm body is a stable body.
The same principles are for junior Squash players advancing to playing at a competitive level.
Fun Drills to Build Stability
Step & Dance
These drills are perfect for juniors to practise balance and volley control:
One-Leg Balance Game
Stand on one leg and hold your racket. Can you balance for 20 seconds without wobbling? Switch legs. For a challenge, swing your racket slowly as if volleying.
Wall Volley Control
Stand near the front wall and hit gentle volleys against it, aiming to keep the ball straight. Focus on staying balanced after every shot, not rushing.
Step & Volley Drill
Get a coach or partner to feed you balls. Each time, practise stepping with the correct foot into your volley. Then have them say the word “step” in your head as you move, so your brain learns the habit.
Volley & Recover
Hit a volley, then quickly move back (safely) to the T and get ready again. Repeat. The aim is to stay balanced while moving, not just when standing still.
Fun Challenges to Try
Here are some games you can play (alone or with a partner/coach) to make stability fun:
The Flamingo Challenge
Stand on one leg like a flamingo and try swinging your racket slowly. How long can you stay balanced? Add a timer and beat your score!
Volley 10 in a Row
Stand near the front wall and try hitting 10 gentle volleys in a row without moving your feet too much. The aim: balance, not power. Can you get 20?
Step & Hit Dance
Every volley = a step. Say “step-hit” out loud as you play. The rhythm makes your movements smooth (and it’s kind of like dancing).
Volley & Sprint
Volley, then race back to the T as fast as you can. Repeat. See how quickly you can recover while staying balanced.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Flat Feet – If you are stuck on your heels, you’ll be too slow. Stay light on your toes.
- Over-swinging – Big swings make you lose balance. Keep it short and sharp.
- Standing Too Tall – Bend your knees! A low, strong position = stability.
- Forgetting to Recover – After volleying, don’t admire your shot. Get back to the T fast.
How to Think Like a Pro
Even top Squash players rely on stability for volleys. Watch the pros: they always look calm, balanced, and ready for the next shot. They don’t waste energy with wild movements.
Here’s a mindset tip: pretend you’re playing on ice. If you move carelessly, you’ll slip. If you move with control, you’ll glide.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a young Squash player, mastering stability on the volley will give you a huge advantage. It’s not about smashing the ball hard – it’s about control, balance, and confidence.
Next time you’re on court, remember:
- Stay low, light, and ready.
- Step into the shot.
- Keep your body balanced like a tower.
Do this, and your volleys will become one of the strongest weapons in your game. Stability might not sound exciting – but it’s what turns good players into great ones.