Open Squash is the place exemplifies the word "open." The club is a community that is open to…read moreeveryone.
Cost: Open Squash tries to make playing squash more affordable by providing a membership-reduction program. The club also has free programs for children from disadvantaged families. If you are interested in playing the sport, Open Squash will make it happen.
Open Squash has the best coaches. Here are some of the coaches I have taken lessons from.
Peter: Peter is intelligent and kindhearted. I call Peter a "Duracell bunny" because he is always moving - I often see him on a treadmill or yoga mat. The way he himself trains inspires me to think of my physical preparation for games. Peter's teaching is suitable anyone with 2.5 rating or above. Peter is especially good at answering questions. He listens, diagnoses the issues, and explains everything in detail. He also suggests routines or exercises to help you better understand the issues and master the necessary skills to overcome problems.
David: David is a very wise man. David often says, "Your swing should be effortless," and he helps you to achieve swings that are indeed effortless. Last year, I had tennis elbow but after David corrected my swing, I could hit more powerfully and play for longer. More importantly, I am injury-free. David has taught me how to move on the court, reduce my steps, and reduce unnecessary turns. David is also very good at answering questions, although he asks many more questions to push you to think for yourself. This is a great learning process, as all the questions help me think about my shots, positions on the court, and strategies. David's lessons are great for anyone who wants to improve their form and care about the fundamentals.
Josh: Josh is a very energetic teacher with a big heart. He is good at
working with all types but he is especially helpful with children and women. Josh's way of explaining forms is by paying attention to body position. This is great for people who do not have much experience of exercise and know
little about how the body functions. Josh is concerned about the community and wants to introduce more people to playing squash. As Josh oversees the junior program, he encourages the mothers of the juniors to play as well and make playing squash a family event. Josh also teaches women-only classes where he creates a comfortable and less intimidating learning environment for women. A great coach for everyone especially pure beginners.
Thaisa: Thaisa is our squash and fitness guru. She is a professional squash player and personal trainer and focuses on how to build a body for squash and prevent injuries. Before, I could barely do sit-ups but Thaisa has helped me to become stronger, to the point where I can now finish three sets of 12 sit-ups. Thaisa is known for creating various dynamic squash drills to train the students: Her drills are demanding but one learns so much from them. Even though Thaisa wants us to finish all the drills, she does keep an eye on us. Thaisa cares deeply for her students and is excellent with small children. She wants to build their physical health awareness and knowledge about nutrition. She especially has a great heart for disadvantaged kids: When she has an extra pair of shoes or T-shirts, she gives these to underprivileged kids and inspires them to continue playing squash.
Asghar: Asghar is a compassionate and patient coach who is great with anyone. Before I knew him as a coach, Asghar had already coached me: During my first month at the club, Asghar came to me while I was trying to practice. In a caring voice, he told me: "If you can face the side wall when
you hit, you will hit much better." Before I could say, "thank you," he had left Now, whenever I see him at the club, he addresses me in the same caring voice: "Keep up the good work." His positive energy makes the club a greater place. In his group lessons, he is good at quickly pointing out something you need to improve. He also creates drills to help students improve their shots and movements.
Juan: Juan is a young, upbeat and accommodating coach. Juan first observes his students, understands their level, and then tries to give a lesson that everyone can benefit from. He has combined different coaches' approaches. Juan often plays with us and tells us what we should focus on. Even when we cheer for our classmates when we play against him, Juan is not offended. He often laughs with us and has fun, too. I believe Juan's lessons are for everyone but are especially great for kids. Once when I was early, I saw him teaching a kid. He was very patient and explained everything in detail. I can
sense that kids love and respect him and that he cares for his young students.
If you are thinking of practicing a sport, squash is a great choice, and Open Squash is the best place to start. If you have already played squash, Open Squash can be your new home.