Squash is a fantastic sport that promotes fitness, strategy, and social engagement. If you’re passionate about the game and want to bring people together, starting a squash club or community in your area is a great way to grow the sport. Whether you’re looking to create a casual meetup group or a structured club, this guide will help you get started.
Step 1: Define Your Vision and Goals
Before launching your club, consider what you want to achieve:
- Casual Play – A friendly group for regular games and social interaction.
- Competitive Play – Organised leagues, tournaments, and ranking systems.
- Coaching and Development – A focus on training and improving skills for all levels.
- Junior Development – Encouraging young players to take up the sport.
Defining your goals will help shape your club’s structure and attract like-minded members.
Step 2: Find a Suitable Venue
You’ll need a reliable place to play, such as:
- Local squash clubs or sports centres
- University or school squash courts
- Private clubs willing to rent out courts
Contact venues to discuss availability, booking costs, and potential partnerships. Some venues may offer discounted rates for clubs or long-term agreements.
Step 3: Gather Interest and Build a Community
A club is nothing without its members. Start by:
- Talking to friends, colleagues, and fellow squash players.
- Posting in local community centres or gyms.
- Creating social media pages or groups (Facebook, WhatsApp, Meetup, etc.).
- Partnering with local sports shops or coaching professionals.
Offering an initial free session or open day can attract potential members.
Step 4: Establish Club Structure and Membership
Decide on:
- Membership Fees – Will it be free, pay-per-session, or a fixed membership?
- Club Roles – Who will organise matches, handle finances, and manage bookings?
- Meeting Frequency – Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions?
Having a clear structure ensures smooth operations and long-term sustainability.
Step 5: Organise Events and Matches
To keep your club engaging, plan activities such as:
- Social squash nights
- Internal tournaments or ladders
- Friendly matches with nearby clubs
- Coaching clinics for skill improvement
- Regular events help maintain interest and encourage player development.
Step 6: Promote Your Club
To grow your club, use multiple promotional channels:
- Social Media – Post updates, match results, and event details.
- Local Advertising – Flyers in gyms, sports shops, and community boards.
- Word of Mouth – Encourage members to invite friends.
- Partnerships – Collaborate with coaches, businesses, or governing bodies.
An active online presence will attract new members and keep existing ones engaged.
Step 7: Maintain and Expand
Once your club is established, focus on sustainability and growth by:
- Seeking sponsorships or funding to improve facilities.
- Encouraging leadership roles among members.
- Expanding to include different skill levels or age groups.
- Keeping communication open and regularly gathering member feedback.
Conclusion
Starting a squash club or community in your area is a rewarding experience that helps promote the sport and build lasting connections. With proper planning, engagement, and promotion, your club can thrive and create a welcoming space for squash enthusiasts of all levels. Take the first step today and bring your local squash community together!
