Scoring
The most common scoring system is point-a-rally to 11. Points are awarded on every rally, regardless of who serves. The first player to reach 11 wins the game, but must lead by at least 2 points (11–9, or 13–11).
How to play
Everything you need
to play squash.
The grip, the stance, the swing and the footwork on video with our coaches; how the scoring works; and the words you will hear on court. Then the fastest way to find out for real: a free first clinic.
The game
11points wins a game
3games wins the match
4walls in play
$0first clinic · code START4FREE
The basics
Seven short lessons with our coaches
A minute or two each. Watch them in order the first time; after that, the one you need.
Scoring
How a match is scored
Lets and strokes
If a player’s path to the ball is obstructed they can ask for a “let” (the point is replayed) or a “stroke” (the point goes to the obstructed player). Understanding these calls is essential for fair play.
Serving
Players alternate serving when they lose a rally. The server can serve from either side of the court and must hit the ball above the service line and into the opposite service box.
Winning a match
Matches are typically best of five games. The first player to win three games wins the match.
Tiebreak
If the score reaches 10–10, the game continues until one player leads by 2 points — a decisive finish, every time.
Sounding like a pro
Five words you will hear on court
The T
The central spot on the court between the service boxes and the back wall — the place to stand for the best coverage of the court.
Drop shot
A soft, precise shot played close to the front wall so the ball bounces twice before your opponent reaches it.
Boast
A shot where the ball hits the side wall before the front wall, changing direction to challenge the opponent.
Let
Called during a rally for interference. The rally is replayed and no point is awarded.
Nick
A shot that hits the joint between the side wall and the floor, creating an unpredictable — usually unplayable — bounce.
New to squash?
See the different ways you can play
Free intro clinic
Perfect for newbies: the basics, the rules, the grip and everything in between, with a coach and other first-timers. No rating required, and free with the code START4FREE.
Clinics & socials
Coach-led group clinics at every level and social round robins at both facilities — expert guidance and people to play with, whatever your standard.
Private coaching
Take your game to the next level with lessons tailored to your goals: technique, strategy and fitness, at times that fit you.
Book a court and start playing today.
Thirteen courts across Bryant Park and FiDi, from early morning to late evening. Racquets and goggles at the desk if you need them.
Book a court