December in junior squash feels a bit different. The big tournaments are wrapping up, school’s almost done, and everyone’s half-thinking about Christmas while still trying to hit their targets for the year.
Besides the winter conditioning and relisance, behind the scenes, there’s actually a lot going on — and plenty being talked about.
One Last Tournament Push
December events are often the last chance to compete before the new year, so there’s always a question: Do I play, or do I rest? Some players want to finish strong and carry momentum into January. Others are tired after a long year and want to get through without injuries.
Coaches and players are chatting more about how you play, not just where you finish. Strong effort, smart shot choices, and staying positive in tough matches matter a great deal more right now than medals.
Levelling Up (Literally)
This time of year, a lot of juniors are about to move up an age group — and everyone knows that jump can be tough. December is when it really hits that next season will be faster, stronger, and more physical.
Because of that, the chat has shifted towards game awareness: closing out matches, handling pressure, and not panicking when things go wrong. It’s less about hitting the perfect shot and more about making the right one.
Training vs Chilling Over Christmas
Let’s be honest — no one wants brutal fitness sessions in late December. A big topic right now is finding the right balance between training and actually enjoying the holidays.
Instead of smashing matches every day, lots of juniors are focusing on shorter sessions, solo hitting, movement work, or fun games. Just as important is switching off mentally for a bit. Burnout is real, and December is a good time to recharge so you’re hungry again in January.
Making Squash Feel Welcoming
There’s also more talk about making Squash a place people want to stay. Juniors are noticing when clubs feel supportive and when they don’t. Things like fair opportunities, friendly environments, and helping newer players fit in are being talked about more openly.
It’s not all about becoming a pro — most juniors just want to enjoy the sport, improve, and feel like they belong.
Eyes on the New Year
Even with Christmas coming up, most juniors already have one eye on the next season. Goals are being set, schedules are being planned, and conversations are happening about what needs to improve.
What’s cool is that more players are focusing on things they can control: attitude, consistency, effort, and learning from losses — not just wins. That mindset shift is a big step forward for junior squash.
One Last Hit Before the Break
December tournaments feel different. Some players are all-in, chasing one last strong result. Others are just trying to compete well and not feel cooked by Christmas.
In December, the most notable high-profile junior Squash tournament in December is the Scottish Junior Open.
The main chat? Effort over outcome. Competing hard, staying switched on, and fighting for every point matter more than where you finish. No one’s winning the season in December — but you can set yourself up for January.
Moving Up Is Coming
A lot of juniors know they’re about to move up an age group. Bigger players. Faster pace. Less time on the ball.
That’s why the talk has shifted. Less “how hard can you hit it” and more “can you stay calm at 9–9?” December exposes what needs work — decision-making, patience, and dealing with pressure when matches get tight.
Train Smart, Not Miserable
No one wants endless fitness sessions this month. And honestly, they’re not needed.
Right now, it’s about smart training. Short sessions. Quality solo hitting. Movement patterns. Fun games. And yes — actually enjoying time away from the court.
Switching off isn’t being lazy. It’s part of getting better.
Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else
December is also prime time for scrolling. Match clips, podium photos, rankings updates — they’re everywhere. A lot of juniors admit this is when comparison hits hardest.
There’s more conversation now about focusing on your own journey. Different players peak at different times, and December results don’t define next season. Coaches are reminding players that progress isn’t always visible straight away — and that’s okay.
“Am I Actually Improving?”
With the season slowing down, juniors start reflecting. Not just on wins and losses, but on growth.
Questions come up like:
- Am I moving better than I did in January?
- Am I calmer in tight matches?
- Do I understand my game more now?
These are the kind of questions that matter long-term, and December gives space to ask them without pressure.
The Pressure to Stay ‘On It’
There’s still a bit of guilt around taking time off. Juniors worry that resting means falling behind.
What’s changing is how rest is talked about. Instead of “doing nothing, rest is being framed as part of training. Sleep, nutrition, stretching, and mental reset are getting the same respect as court time — especially in December.
Final Thoughts
December isn’t the loudest part of the squash season, but it might be the most important. It’s where you reflect, reset, and decide how you want to show up next year. Whether you’re chasing results or just chasing improvement, the conversations happening now set the tone for what comes next.