A Reader Addresses Richard Millman's Thoughts On American Squash

10-14-12 Thoughts On American Squash From An International Viewpoint, by Richard Millman

From A Reader:

Richard Millman 's thoughts are very comprehensive and accurate. He's been a major participant on the US Squash scene for decades, so he knows the facts. A few comments:

1. College teams have limits on  the number of dates on which they can play matches. There are rules in both the  NESCAC and the Ivy League which govern the dates on which the teams can compete. The coaches do not have a free hand in scheduling outside matches. In fact the  Ivy League teams are limited to ONE match per year against a touring side, and there are other rules which restrict outside play.

2. Having the college kids  play against local sides such as The Jesters is  great . However the college kids are too good for all but the most elite local players. They are too fit and too strong , and playing the softball game against a kid who's training two hours a day is a complete waste of time for a young man with a career who is  not intensely  training. Playing  HS teams is  a better idea because the standard of play is closer to somebody who has a job.

3. Richard is right in stating that parents seek every possible advantage in gaining  admission for their children  to highly selective colleges, and squash is seen as an effective avenue  in this regard. What this  attitude breeds  all too often is the " Practice Your Piano" syndrome- squash is perceived by the kid as a chore, not a joy and a privilege. When their four years are over, they drop squash like a bad habit.

4. Pro squash pays very badly, and the career burn is brief. Even if you're the best player in collegiate squash, if you can do math you'll conclude that choosing another career pays immeasurably better long-term, you don't have to travel relentlessly, and you don't have to make a career change at age 28 for  which you are unprepared. There is a high  opportunity cost in choosing to play pro squash: those career-launching years are spent doing court drills and lifting weights, not in developing contacts and expertise in a profession or other business activity.

5. Intercollegiate squash rivalries are tremendous. They motivate the players to train hard, compete hard, and also to respect their opponents. Are there a few young people who would benefit from a  fully professional training regime?  Yes, but for 99.5 % of the kids, it's a terrific experience. Then after four years they are all graduated , move to major cities , joining the same clubs , and playing with an against one another. Those memories, friendships and contacts are truly priceless.