Introduction
Squash is an exhilarating and fast-paced racket sport that demands agility, skill, and strategic thinking. As a beginner, it’s essential to be familiar with the rules and terminology used in the game. An important part of the game is the serve. In this article, we’ll delve into the serve and the rules that surround it.
Determining the Server:
The serve will likely change hands multiple times in a game and the referee or marker need to be able to determine who is due to serve. At the start of the game, the player who wins the spin of the racket serves first. At this point and also after each change of server, the server chooses the box the service box they wish to serve from. Following this, while retaining the serve, the server must serve from alternate boxes, unless the rally ends in a Let, at which point the serve must serve again from the same box.
What do the rules say?
To serve, the server drops or throws the ball from a hand and strikes the ball with the racket. A serve is good as long as one foot is in contact with the floor inside the service box, the ball is struck directly to the front wall, above the service line and the ball, unless volleyed, lands in the opposite quarter court without touching any line. A serve that hits the service line, the short line, the half court line, or any line bounding the top of the court is a fault.
Explaining the Terms:
A fault must be called by a Referee or Marker to indicate that a serve was not good.
Handout is called by the Referee or Marker when the server has lost the rally. It is to indicate that the non-serving player has won the point and now has the right to serve. To announce it correctly, the referee or marker must say Handout followed by the score. For example, the referee or marker may announce, “Handout, 4-3.”
Conclusion
As a beginner in the world of squash, it’s crucial to grasp the concept of the serve. Understanding this will help you navigate the management of the match. Embrace the challenges, enjoy the sport, and relish the opportunity to improve your skills with each serve.
