Refereeing
About Refereeing
If you’re going to play competitively, it’s important that you understand the rules of squash and racquetball.
Scottish Squash, the governing body, often run refereeing courses where players of all levels can gain a basic introduction to the rules and how to referee a match properly.
Should you be interested in learning more , please contact [email protected]
Squash Rules
Refereeing notes from George Tierney
1. Direct access to the ball
The out going player MUST get out of the incoming players direct route to the ball.
At times, there will be occasions when the out going player has played a shot that he can’t clear. This usually happens at all front of the court.
You also need to be certain that the incoming player is going to the ball and NOT his/her opponent.
A STROKE is the usual decision if direct access is denied.
2. Freedom of swing.
The striker must be allowed freedom to swing his backswing ( not exaggerating it) and his downswing without any contact.
If contact is made, a STROKE would be the usual decision.
If contact is made on the follow through, after the ball has been struck, the referee must decide the extent of the interference and can award a STOKE or a LET or even a NO LET, depending upon the interference.
3. Freedom to hit the front wall.
The striker must be able to hit “most “ of his front wall. If this is not available to him, a STROKE would be the decision.
However, top referees are very reluctant to use the word “Whole Front Wall “ If in doubt they give a Let rather than a No Let, taking safety into account.