Throughout the sporting world, the essence of great coaching lies in shaping techniques that would benefit players immensely in their game. One such sport that requires a delicate combination of skill, strategy, and precision is squash. In the indoor confines of a squash court, every shot matters, and the ability to execute a variety of shots effectively can give a player the upper hand.
The lob shot is one such technique in squash that can drastically change the dynamics of a match if executed precisely. However, it is a shot often overlooked or underused by intermediate players. This article will explore how UK coaches can effectively teach the lob shot to intermediate players.
Understanding the Lob Shot
Before diving into the coaching techniques, it is vital to understand what a lob shot is and the impact it can have on a game of squash. In essence, a lob shot is a high, arching shot aimed to hit the front wall near the outline and then fall into the back corners of the court.
It is a defensive shot used to buy time, regain control, and disrupt the flow of the aggressive opponent. However, the lob shot isn’t merely a reactive shot. It can also be a proactive play, a surprise tool in the player’s arsenal that can expose the opponent’s weak backhand return or inability to deal with high balls.
The Importance of Timing and Control
The lob shot may seem simple but it requires impeccable timing and control to execute it correctly. Coaches can emphasize these two aspects during training sessions to help players master this shot.
Teaching timing revolves around two key aspects. The first is the contact time, the moment when the racquet hits the ball. Coaches should encourage their players to hit the ball at the top of the bounce to give it the needed height and distance. The second is the release time, the instance the player lets the ball go after the bounce. Coaches should instruct their players to delay the release until the ball has almost passed them, which will give their shot the needed direction and angle.
Control, on the other hand, is about the finesse and softness of a player’s shot. Coaches should show their players how to “feel” the ball on their racquet and not hit it too hard. Too much force and the ball will go out; too little and the ball will fall short. Balance is key here, and coaches should promote the idea of hitting the ball with just enough force to make it reach the back corners of the court.
The Role of Body Position and Racquet Preparation
Another essential factor to consider when teaching the lob shot is the player’s body position and racquet preparation. These two aspects are interlinked and crucial for executing a successful lob shot.
Coaches should focus on their player’s body position relative to the ball and the front wall. The player should be side on to the front wall, with the ball slightly behind them. This position gives the player the best possible angle to hit the lob and sends the ball to the back of the court.
As for racquet preparation, coaches should instruct their players to keep the racquet high and the wrist cocked. A high racquet allows a downward swing that gives the lob its height, while a cocked wrist provides the control needed to direct the ball towards the back corners.
Incorporating the Lob Shot into Gameplay Strategy
Once players have learned the fundamentals of the lob shot, coaches should incorporate this shot into their overall gameplay strategy. The lob shot’s strategic use can turn the tables, putting pressure on the opponent.
Coaches could devise training drills that simulate match situations, where the players are encouraged to use the lob shot. This will help them understand when to use the shot and how to adapt it to their game. Furthermore, coaches need to stress the importance of variation in the game. The element of surprise is crucial in squash, and the unpredictability of the lob shot can be a game-changer.
Providing Feedback and Continuous Support
Just like any other sport, learning and mastering a skill in squash takes time and practice. Therefore, coaches should provide continuous support and constructive feedback during training sessions.
The feedback should be specific, focusing on the aspects the player needs to improve. Whether it’s adjusting the timing of the shot or working on the body position, targeted advice can help a player progress quickly. In addition, coaches should ensure that their feedback is positive and encouraging, reinforcing the player’s confidence.
Teaching the lob shot effectively requires a combination of technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and patience. It’s a game-changing shot that can, over time, become an invaluable weapon in any squash player’s arsenal.
The Influence of Professional Squash Players on Learning the Lob Shot
The influence of professional squash players can’t be underestimated when it comes to learning and mastering the lob shot. Coaches can leverage this influence by studying and learning from the playstyles of these professional players.
One such player who has used the lob shot to great effect in professional squash games is the well-regarded Nick Matthew. Known for his tactical brilliance, Matthew has often turned the tide of games with his perfectly timed and controlled lob shots.
Watching and analysing the videos of Nick Matthew and other professional players, highlighting their use of the lob shot, would provide an invaluable learning experience for intermediate players. Coaches could breakdown these videos, explaining the subtleties of their body positioning, racquet preparation, and shot timing.
At the same time, coaches could invite seasoned players like Alex Robertson who is known for his in-depth racquet reviews to conduct workshops or training sessions. His expertise on different types of squash racquets, like the popular Head Graphene, and their impact on the lob shot would be a great resource for players.
From these experiences, players can learn not only how to execute the lob shot, but also how to adapt it to their particular style of play and the specific dynamics of the game.
The Importance of Suitable Squash Equipment
In addition to understanding the technique and strategy behind the lob shot, being equipped with suitable squash equipment is also crucial. The right squash racquet, court shoes, and even the type of ball can all have a significant effect on a player’s ability to execute the lob shot effectively.
For instance, a review of squash racquets by Alex Robertson in November emphasized how the weight and balance of the racquet can impact the player’s control and power. He advocated for lighter racquets like the Black Knight for intermediate players focusing on mastering finesse shots like the lob shot.
Furthermore, having the right court shoes for the indoor court can enhance a player’s movement and stability, allowing them to position themselves more effectively for the shot.
Understanding the type of equipment suitable for their playstyle and the shot techniques they are learning can help players make informed decisions when choosing their squash gear.
Conclusion
Mastering the lob shot is a process that requires time, dedication, and the right guidance. With the right coaching strategies focused on understanding the lob shot, emphasising timing and control, focusing on body position and racquet preparation, incorporating the shot into gameplay strategy, providing feedback, and the influence of professional squash players, intermediate players can effectively learn and execute this game-changing shot.
Moreover, being equipped with the right gear based on suitable racquet reviews, understanding the importance of court shoes, and the indoor court dynamics would further enhance their ability to execute the lob shot.
Remember, squash coaching isn’t just about teaching shot types or squash training drills. It’s about developing the players’ understanding of the game, nurturing their skills, and ultimately helping them evolve into well-rounded squash players who can take on any challenge that comes their way on the front court.
