The Art of Squash Commentating

Imagine sitting at home watching a squash match on TV or online. The ball pings furiously off the walls at lightning speed. Just when you think you cannot follow the rally, the commentator's voice cuts in, painting the picture, raising the excitement, and making you feel the tension of each shot.

This is the art of squash commentating, a craft that turns fast-paced squash action into an engaging story for fans. In this article, we explore what squash commentary involves, why it is so important for viewers, and how it is done.

From live commentary techniques (like pacing your speech and knowing when not to talk) to a brief history of how squash broadcasting has evolved, we cover the key elements. We also look at some notable squash commentators and share tips for anyone aspiring to grab the mic and develop their own commentary voice.

What Does Squash Commentating Involve, and Why Does It Matter?

At its core, squash commentating means narrating a match in real time and providing insight into the game. A squash commentator is much more than a play-by-play announcer; they are a guide and entertainer for the audience.

They describe crucial moments ("an outrageous drop shot into the nick!") and explain the tactics or rules behind what is happening ("that's a let call, the players got in each other's way"). Great commentators enhance the viewer experience by adding context, drama, and education. Commentary amplifies the thrill of the sport.

If you are a squash fan, you know how a good commentator can bring a match to life. They highlight subtle strategies a casual viewer might miss (like how a player is setting up a four-shot rally plan), and they build excitement during pivotal points. Commentary can even elevate an already amazing play: think of a jaw-dropping rally followed by the commentator exclaiming in astonishment, which sends chills down your spine.

Sports are ultimately entertainment, and commentators help tell the story of the match in a way that grips viewers. Without commentary, watching squash could feel flat or confusing, especially for newcomers. With a skilled voice on the mic, even a layperson can appreciate the brilliance of a tactical battle or the significance of a championship point.

What exactly does a squash commentator do? They juggle multiple roles at once:

• Narrator: describing the action clearly, but not redundantly, since viewers can see the ball.
• Analyst: providing analysis about players' tactics, fitness, or mindset.
• Teacher: clarifying rules when needed, since squash's let and stroke decisions can be tricky.
• Cheerleader: setting the tone of the broadcast, where their enthusiasm (or lack of it) can influence how exciting the match feels.

They often share quick anecdotes or stats about the players to add color. When done right, commentating turns a simple match into a dramatic story, helping viewers feel the intensity on court.

Live Commentary Techniques: Pacing, Timing, and Tone

Commentating a squash match live is a bit like conducting an orchestra, knowing when to let certain sounds come forward and when to hold back. A common rookie mistake is to talk nonstop, but seasoned commentators learn to use pacing and timing carefully.

In squash, rallies can be fast and frenetic or slow and tactical, and a commentator's speech should mirror that rhythm. During a fast exchange of quick volleys, a commentator might speak in short, excited bursts to match the urgency. But when a player is about to serve at match ball (an extremely tense moment), the wise commentator often slows down and lowers their tone: "Here it is... match ball...", building suspense. By adjusting pace and volume, commentators pull viewers to the edge of their seats at critical junctures.

Equally important is the timing of when to speak versus when to stay quiet. In squash, some of the most powerful moments come right after a spectacular rally ends: the crowd roars, players are catching their breath. A great commentator knows this is a time to let the crowd noise and the moment breathe.

Sometimes silence is an announcer's best friend. In squash commentary, a brief pause can let the audience absorb the brilliance of what just happened. Then, a simple line like "What a rally!" or an appreciative chuckle can actually amplify the excitement because it validates the viewer's amazement without drowning it in words.

Tone of voice is another tool in the commentator's kit. A squash commentator might use an animated, excited tone when a rally heats up, then switch to a more measured, analytical tone between points to explain strategy. Varying your tone keeps the broadcast from sounding monotonous.

The best commentators modulate their voices, rising in pitch and volume when a player dives for an unbelievable get, and then calm and authoritative when dissecting the replay. This variation not only reflects the action on court but also guides the viewer's emotions, helping them feel the tension, relief, or excitement at the right times.

Another technique is teamwork in commentary. Often, squash matches have two commentators: one doing more play-by-play (describing rallies as they unfold) and the other providing colour commentary (additional insights, backstory, or humor). In SquashTV broadcasts, for example, lead commentator Joey Barrington often teams up with co-commentator Paul "PJ" Johnson.

They have a friendly banter and divide duties so that the commentary is both informative and entertaining. Good commentator duos know how to hand off to each other smoothly; one might raise a question ("That was a tough call, stroke or let?") and the other will chime in with an explanation. This dynamic can enrich the broadcast, offering multiple perspectives. It also prevents a single voice from dominating too much; the change-up between voices can re-engage listeners.

To sum up, effective live squash commentary requires dynamic pacing, well-timed silence, and engaging tone. A commentator must sense the mood of the match and adjust on the fly. When the match is in a crucial, nail-biting phase, you will hear the commentator's sentences become crisper and their energy spike.

When the players are between games toweling off, the commentator might take a more relaxed tone, perhaps recounting how the game unfolded or what to watch for next. This ebb and flow in delivery ensures the audience is right there emotionally with the match's highs and lows. The ability to tell a story, play into the drama, and allow the game to breathe as its own entity is what separates the average from the best.

Balancing Insight with Entertainment

A great squash commentator wears two hats: expert analyst and engaging entertainer. Finding the sweet spot between the two is a real skill.

On one hand, squash commentary should be informative; serious fans crave insight into tactics, training, and the nuances of the sport. On the other hand, it is also about connecting with viewers and keeping things fun, since a sports broadcast is entertainment.

How do commentators balance these demands? Firstly, they know their audience. If a match is broadcast on a niche squash streaming service with mostly die-hard fans watching, the commentary can lean a bit more technical or detailed (viewers might appreciate analysis of a player's wrist angle on a backhand drop or a discussion about fitness periodization).

But if it is a more general audience, say a match aired on a broader sports channel or a finals match that many casual fans tune in to, the commentator may simplify jargon and focus on big-picture narratives (like rivalry storylines or the significance of the event) to hook those viewers.

The key is to educate without alienating. A good commentator will explain necessary rules or squash terms in a concise way for newcomers ("He asked for a let, basically a replay of the point, due to interference") while still offering deeper strategy nuggets for seasoned fans ("Notice how she is attacking the backhand, exploiting a weakness from their last encounter").

Entertainment often comes from the personality of the commentator shining through. Some commentators use a bit of humor or lighthearted banter to keep the tone enjoyable. In squash, we often hear this during less intense moments; perhaps between rallies or during a one-sided match, the commentators might share a quick anecdote about a player's quirky training routine or even crack a gentle joke.

The duo of Joey Barrington and Paul Johnson is well known for this: they will often engage in good-natured banter, teasing each other or making witty remarks, which brings a smile to viewers and humanizes the broadcast. Of course, they do not overdo it; the match always comes first. The humor is like seasoning, sprinkled just enough to enhance flavor but never to overpower the main dish.

Insight remains crucial because squash is a complex, fast game. Viewers rely on commentators to make sense of rapid rallies and tactical shifts. For instance, if a player suddenly strings together a series of high lobs to slow the pace, a sharp commentator will point out the strategic reason ("She is trying to break the rhythm and force a slower pace because her opponent thrives in fast rallies").

This kind of analysis increases appreciation for the sport; you are not just watching a ball bounce around, you are understanding why each shot is chosen. The entertaining side comes in how this insight is delivered: the best commentators explain things in a storytelling manner. Instead of dryly stating "Player X is tired and hitting shorter length," they might say, "Player X has been pushed to the brink, see how those length shots are falling shorter now? The work from earlier in the match is catching up to him." It conveys the same info but in a more narrative, relatable way.

Balancing insight and entertainment means being authentic. Genuine passion shines through. If a commentator is truly excited by a ridiculous rally or an underdog upset, that enthusiasm is contagious. And if they truly understand the sport, their explanations will naturally enlighten viewers.

The combination keeps both the head and heart of the audience engaged; you learn something and you have a good time. Squash fans often say that after a great commentary, they not only enjoyed the match, they came away feeling like they experienced it with an expert friend guiding them.

From Courtside to Cyberspace: A Brief History and Evolution of Squash Commentary

Squash has not always been easy to broadcast; for a long time it was known as an "un-TV-friendly" sport due to its small ball and enclosed courts. But commentary on squash has been around longer than you might think, adapting with each new media era. Here is a quick journey through the evolution of squash commentating and how it has changed with technology and platforms.

Early days: voices on radio

The first broadcast of a squash match was on radio. In 1951, the BBC aired a portion of the British Open semi-final between Mahmoud Karim and Roy Wilson, marking the first live radio commentary for squash. Consider that challenge: conveying squash purely through words and sound, with no visuals.

The commentator, a BBC broadcaster named Max Robertson, later described how difficult it was to follow every lightning-quick shot. He realized he could not describe every single swing or the listener would be dazed by the torrent of words. Instead, he focused on reading the pattern of the rallies and anticipating key moments.

Robertson also noted the need to occasionally explain aspects of the game for listeners who might never have even seen squash, but he could not slow down too much for explanations without losing the flow. This delicate balancing act in 1951 set the template for squash commentary: clarity, anticipation, and educating the audience gently.

Moving to television

As squash grew in popularity through the 1970s and 1980s, efforts were made to bring it to TV audiences. A major breakthrough was the development of the glass-walled squash court, which allowed spectators and cameras to see the action from outside the court. (An early all-glass court was even demonstrated on BBC's Tomorrow's World in 1977 as a futuristic innovation.)

With better visibility, televised squash matches became more feasible by the late 1970s and 1980s. Players like Jonah Barrington, a dominant champion of the 1960s and 1970s, helped popularize the sport through exhibition matches and clinics around the world.

Barrington himself, known for his forthright personality, became an incisive commentator and magnetic storyteller in his post-playing years. He was not afraid to be controversial or blunt in his commentary, which brought squash conversations alive and sometimes sparked debate. This era saw ex-players stepping behind the mic, bringing authentic expertise to broadcasts.

However, early TV squash commentary was still finding its feet. Broadcasters grappled with how to film the sport (often one static camera at the back of the court) and commentators had to help viewers track the often-invisible ball.

They relied on describing positions ("deep in the back left corner...") and reacting vocally to give cues when a spectacular shot was made (you would definitely hear the excitement in the commentator's voice when a ball rolled out dead from a nick). Those watching on TV in the 1980s and 1990s might recall commentators speaking in a slightly more formal, BBC-style manner, as was common in sports broadcasting of that era, but gradually that shifted to a more relaxed tone over time.

The SquashTV era and digital revolution

Fast forward to the 2000s and beyond, and squash commentary entered the digital streaming age. The Professional Squash Association (PSA) launched its own streaming service, SquashTV, in 2009, which began broadcasting hundreds of matches a year to fans worldwide.

This was a major change. No longer were squash broadcasts limited to occasional TV slots or highlight reels; now every major match (and many smaller ones) could have live commentary and reach a global audience via the internet. The volume of commentary grew sharply: SquashTV today produces coverage for over 960 matches a year across the PSA World Tour. That is a lot of talking for the commentary teams.

With the rise of SquashTV and platforms like YouTube, squash commentators also adapted their style to be more international and accessible. The audience could be anyone from a club player in Egypt to a squash newcomer in Texas. Commentary became a bit more conversational and inclusive. We saw a mix of accents and backgrounds in the commentary box, though English remained the primary language.

In recent years, there has also been an effort to include more female commentators and diverse voices. For instance, former top players like Vanessa Atkinson (World Champion) and Laura Massaro (former World No. 1) have become regular commentators on SquashTV, adding their expert analysis and a fresh perspective.

Atkinson has noted that when she first started, there were hardly any female voices in squash commentary, but now there is a whole group of them, as there should be. This growing diversity enriches the commentary, speaking to a broader range of fans and inspiring the next generation, since young girls can now hear women commentators and imagine themselves in that role.

Technology's impact

The evolution of media platforms also introduced new tech to squash commentary. High-definition broadcasts and slow-motion replays allow commentators to do deeper analysis; for example, they can break down a super slow-mo replay of a trick shot and explain the racquet skills involved, something early commentators could only dream of.

There is also the arrival of remote commentary. The PSA embraced remote commentary technology around 2020 to 2021, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, which enabled commentators to call matches from home or a studio anywhere in the world. This means you might have one commentator sitting in London and another in Cairo, both watching a live feed and commentating together as if in the same booth.

Remote setups have allowed broadcasts of smaller tournaments that previously would not have had commentary due to travel costs. All a commentator needs now is a laptop, a good headset, and an internet connection to join a live SquashTV stream with high-quality audio. This has expanded the pool of commentators and the reach of the sport.

From one person on the radio in 1951 struggling to convey squash's speed, to today's professional commentary teams streaming in UltraHD with multiple camera angles and real-time replays, squash commentating has come a long way. What has not changed is the mission: to share the excitement of the game with those who are not on site.

As the platforms have shifted from crackly radio to broadcast TV to online streaming (and now even to on-demand highlight packages with commentary included), squash commentators have continually adapted their style, but they remain the essential link between the action on court and the fans off court.

Voices of the Game: Notable Squash Commentators and Their Styles

Just as squash has its superstar players, it also has some well-known voices. These commentators have become fan favorites, each with their own style that adds flavor to the viewing experience. Here are a few notable squash commentators and what they bring to the mic.

Joey Barrington

Joey Barrington, son of squash legend Jonah Barrington, is the lead commentator for the PSA World Tour. Joey's style is energetic, passionate, and unmistakably enthusiastic. When a rally reaches a fever pitch, Joey's voice often crescendos in excitement, sometimes exploding with phrases like "Ridiculous skill!" or an elongated "Oh my goodness gracious me!" (one of his trademark exclamations when something truly crazy happens on court).

He is not shy about showing emotion, which makes viewers feel okay about jumping off the couch themselves. Joey also injects humor and friendly sarcasm at times, especially when bantering with his co-commentators. Being a former pro player himself, he offers plenty of technical insight, but he never delivers it in a dry way.

He will often relate what a player might be feeling, drawing on his own past experiences ("I can tell you from experience, at this stage of the match your legs are on fire and the court suddenly feels twice as big"). Joey's lively commentary has made him closely associated with SquashTV broadcasts, to the point where many fans feel a big match is not complete without hearing his voice through the speakers.

Paul "PJ" Johnson

A former World No. 4 from England, PJ Johnson often pairs with Joey Barrington on SquashTV. Their chemistry is a highlight; they are sometimes called the humorous duo of squash commentary. PJ brings a calm, analytical demeanor that complements Joey's high-octane style.

He is excellent at breaking down strategy: for example, he will point out when a player has changed their game plan or adjusted their positioning on the T (center of the court) and explain why. PJ also has some memorable quirks; long-time listeners know that whenever a match reaches 2-2 in the fifth (final) game, PJ will often say in a dramatic tone: "There is nothing between them, Joey." It is his signature line for those nail-biting deciders, and fans have come to smile in anticipation of it.

He often delivers such lines with a bit of theatrical flair. PJ's sense of humor is a touch drier than Joey's; he will make witty observations in a deadpan way that cracks Joey (and the audience) up. Together, Joey and PJ have a fun dynamic; for instance, PJ might gently rib Joey about his past on-court exploits or a commentator flub, and Joey will chuckle and fire back. It is like listening to two good friends who deeply love the sport share it with you, which makes broadcasts feel very engaging.

Vanessa Atkinson

Vanessa Atkinson is a former World Champion (2004) who has moved into commentary. Representing the Netherlands (though born in England), she offers a rich perspective as a top female player who competed against many of the stars of the game. Vanessa's commentary style is insightful and poised.

She has a knack for explaining the intricacies of squash technique in an accessible way. For example, she might note how a player's wrist preparation telegraphed a shot, or how footwork set up that perfect drop, details that true squash geeks enjoy. But she also never loses sight of the broader match narrative.

Vanessa's tone is generally a bit more measured; she is calm during analysis, and you can hear a smile in her voice when something amusing happens. That said, she matches the intensity of big moments; when a rally gets thrilling, you will hear her pitch go up and the excitement come through.

As one of the pioneering women in the commentary box, Vanessa also serves as a role model. She has spoken about how there are now many more female squash commentators than when she started, creating a more diverse commentary team. Fans appreciate her professionalism and depth of knowledge; it is like having a top coach or veteran player guiding you through the match.

Jonah Barrington

We would be remiss not to mention Joey's father, Jonah Barrington, who, while not a regular commentator in the current era, was known for his incisive and passionate commentary and analysis in earlier years. Jonah, a six-time British Open champion, was famous for speaking his mind. He brought that frankness to his squash commentary and punditry.

Described as a magnetic raconteur and an incisive commentator who was unafraid to be controversial, Jonah would call things as he saw them, whether it was criticizing a player's fitness or praising someone's fighting spirit. He had a booming voice and an intensity that matched his legendary on-court persona.

While Jonah did more coaching and writing (authoring books and columns about squash) than live match commentary, whenever he did step behind the mic or was interviewed about matches, you could expect candid and sometimes fiery insights. Many in the squash community still recount Jonah's colorful post-match reflections and how they added to the lore of big matches in the 1970s and 1980s.

Other voices

There are many other contributors to squash commentary worth mentioning:

• Lee Drew, an English coach and referee, often joins SquashTV commentary especially when a referee's perspective is useful; he calmly explains officiating decisions and rules with authority (he also serves as a video review official).
• Simon Parke, a former World No. 3 from England, has appeared in the commentary box frequently; he brings a cheeky humor and Yorkshire accent that fans enjoy, along with tactical sharpness from his playing days.
• Local heroes and coaches: on some regional or national broadcasts, you might hear them commentating; for example, at events like the U.S. Open or British Open, an MC such as Michael Absalom or a national coach can join to give flavor.

While it is still not common to have non-English commentary for major pro events, the sport's growth might soon see, say, Arabic commentary for the many Egyptian fans, or other languages. (The English-centric commentary has drawn some criticism for a degree of British bias, but efforts are being made to broaden this.)

Each commentator leaves their stamp on the match. Some are more play-by-play oriented, some more analytical; some are excitable, others more composed. This variety means broadcasts can cater to different viewer preferences. But all the notable commentators share one trait: passion for squash. They genuinely love the game, and it comes through in their voices. That authenticity is what makes their styles resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Technical Know-How: What It Takes to Commentate a Squash Match

We have talked about art and style; now let us talk about the science and knowledge behind good squash commentary. Being a squash commentator is not just about having a silver tongue; it requires a strong foundation of technical understanding of the game and some broadcasting skills. Here are some of the key knowledge areas and skills an effective commentator needs.

Deep understanding of squash rules and tactics

Squash has some nuanced rules (the let and stroke decisions, for example) that commentators must understand inside-out. When a player asks for a let, the commentator should instantly grasp why and predict whether the referee will grant a let or award a stroke (point), and then clearly explain that to viewers.

They also need to know the finer points of the rules, like turning (when a player lets the ball pass and hits it on the other side) or foot-faults on serve.

Beyond rules, tactical knowledge is huge. Commentators should read the game almost like a coach: recognizing patterns such as one player keeping the ball straight to pin the opponent, or noticing when someone is targeting the front of the court to tire the other out.

This tactical insight allows them to forecast and analyze: "Player A is lifting the ball a lot; he is trying to slow things down and break Player B's attacking rhythm." A solid background in playing or coaching squash is a common trait among top commentators because it gives them the expertise to dissect rallies and strategies effectively.

Knowledge of the players and context

Preparation is key. Commentators usually do their homework on the players before a match. They will know head-to-head histories (who won in previous meetings), recent performances, strengths and weaknesses, and any storylines (did one player just come back from injury? Is another playing for a World No. 1 ranking this match?).

This context enriches the commentary. For example, understanding that a player is known for marathon five-set matches will prompt a commentator to mention it when a match heads toward a deciding game, adding drama ("We know this player can go the distance, he has proven it time and again in five-setters").

Commentators also keep tabs on fitness, coaching changes, personal anecdotes, or national pressures, anything that might be relevant. During the match, they weave this info in. Good commentators also react to what is happening: if a usually iron-willed player is looking shaky, they might recall a rare instance in the past it happened, making the current moment more compelling. The commentator is like an encyclopedia and storyteller combined, providing color and context that turn a match into a narrative.

Broadcasting and audio skills

Being knowledgeable is not enough if you cannot convey it well. Commentary is a form of public speaking, so skills like clear diction, good microphone technique, and timing are important. Commentators need to speak clearly and at an appropriate volume; if they mumble or speak too softly or loudly, it detracts from the experience.

They also coordinate with broadcast producers (through earpieces) about replays or commercial breaks, so they must listen even while talking. For instance, a producer might cue a slow-motion replay of an amazing rally, and the commentator should know to pause describing live play and maybe talk over the replay instead: "Let us watch that again, see the dive and how he still flicks it cross-court."

This synchronization between commentary and visuals is a skill honed with experience. If working with a co-commentator, knowing how to hand off smoothly and not talk over each other is crucial (dead air is bad, but both talking at once is worse). A bit of choreography, maybe a subtle hand signal or just experience, tells them when to jump in or yield to their partner.

Adaptability to different media

Today, squash commentary is not just the live match. There are also post-match interviews, highlight reels with voiceovers, and sometimes even social media clips. A good commentator can adjust their style accordingly.

Post-match, if they are interviewing the winner on court, they shift to a questioner role, congratulating and getting insights from players (and speaking in plain terms since the arena audience is listening too). For highlights, they might record a voiceover after the match, condensing the action into key points in a more scripted way. These are additional technical skills, transitioning from live spontaneous commentary to brief, polished summaries as needed.

Stamina and focus

Squash matches can be physically and mentally taxing, not just for players but for commentators too. A single match can last anywhere from 20 minutes to over 100 minutes in epic cases. Tournaments may schedule multiple matches back-to-back that commentators cover in one day.

It requires vocal stamina to keep talking energetically for hours (commentators often have a cup of tea or water in the booth to stay hydrated and soothe their throats). They also need mental focus to not drift. If a match gets one-sided or enters a tactical deadlock, a commentator has to avoid sounding bored or repetitive; they should find new angles to discuss or maintain a level of excitement so the audience stays engaged.

Concentration is key because losing track for even a second could mean missing a sudden brilliant shot or confusing the score. The best commentators make it seem easy, but behind the scenes they are actively processing a lot of information and planning what to say, all while reacting in real time to an unpredictable game.

Impartiality and respect

Commentators should strive to be impartial. They might have personal favorites or be from one of the players' home country, but on-air they need to celebrate good play from both sides and not appear biased. (Fans will quickly call out bias; for example, there have been perceptions of British-centric commentary on SquashTV in the past, which commentators have to be mindful of and counteract by giving due credit to all nationalities.)

Respect for players is also key. Even if criticizing a tactical choice or noting nerves, a commentator should never belittle the players; these are world-class athletes, and viewers tend to dislike commentary that comes off as mean-spirited or arrogant.

Technical knowledge includes knowing the limits of what you can say: questioning a player's strategy ("I am not sure that game plan is working out for her") is fair, but making personal attacks or excessive negative comments is not. The best commentators maintain credibility by being fair and respecting the sport and its players.

In short, a squash commentator needs to be part squash expert, part smooth broadcaster, and part quick-thinking improv speaker. It is a job that demands preparation and real-time reaction in equal measure. When you hear a top commentator seamlessly explain a complex referee decision, crack a relevant joke, and then amp up their voice for a game-winning rally, all in the span of a minute, you are witnessing a lot of expertise at work. The technical know-how underpins the art, ensuring that the commentary is not just passionate, but also accurate and professional.

Tips for Aspiring Squash Commentators: Developing Your Voice

Do you dream of sitting in the commentary box and calling the shots (literally) for squash matches? Whether you are a squash superfan with a gift of gab or a player thinking about a post-retirement career in media, becoming a commentator takes practice and dedication. Here are some tips for aspiring commentators to get started and hone that commentary voice.

1. Immerse yourself in squash. The first step is to deepen your understanding of the game. Play regularly or at least hit the court occasionally to feel what players experience. Study squash strategy and watch many matches. The more matches you watch (with an analytical eye), the more patterns and tactics you will recognize quickly when you are commentating. Become a student of the sport: know the rules in detail, follow the professional tour, and learn about different players and styles. This forms the knowledge base you will draw on while commentating.
2. Practice out loud. One of the best ways to start is to practice commentary on your own. Cue up a squash match video or live stream, mute the original commentary, and talk through the match as if you were on air. It might feel awkward at first, but this exercise is valuable. It trains you to describe action in real time, find the words for different shots, and keep talking through a whole rally. Start with club matches or archival footage where you are not nervous about ruining a live moment. Record yourself if possible, then listen back. It can be cringey to hear your own voice initially, but it is the fastest way to hear where you umm and ahh, or where you went silent too long. Treat it like an athlete watching game tape. Over time, you will get more comfortable and your commentary will become smoother and more natural.
3. Find your style, but be yourself. It is great to have role models (maybe you love Joey Barrington's excitement or Vanessa Atkinson's clarity), but focus on developing your own authentic style. Your personality should come through. Are you naturally witty? Do not be afraid to use appropriate humor. More of a tactician? Lean into sharp analysis. Early on, you might imitate aspects of commentators you admire, which is fine as a learning phase, but gradually you will want to sound like you, not a copy of someone else. Authenticity resonates with audiences. Adaptability is part of style too: you might dial up the exuberance for a fun exhibition event, but be a bit more formal for a serious championship final. Find a range that feels right for you. Above all, sound natural; imagine you are explaining the match to friends who love squash; you would be excited and insightful, but also conversational.
4. Work on your voice. Great commentary is not just what you say, it is how you say it. Basic voice coaching can be very helpful. Practice speaking from your diaphragm so your voice is strong and clear (singers' breathing exercises can help with this). Pay attention to enunciation, for instance clearly pronouncing players' names (and learning the correct pronunciation beforehand). Try to eliminate filler words like "um," "you know," or repetitive crutch phrases. This comes with awareness and practice. Expand your vocabulary of descriptive words for shots and situations so you are not repeating the same adjectives every rally. You might even keep a little notebook of phrases that come to mind. Another tip: practice varying your tone and pace. Maybe record a mock commentary where you intentionally alternate between excited and calm passages to get comfortable with that modulation. Your voice is your instrument, so take care of it. Stay hydrated and maybe avoid screaming too much at your next live sports event if you know you will be commentating soon (a hoarse voice is tough to listen to).
5. Start small and seek opportunities. To break into commentary, be prepared to start with local or amateur events. Offer to commentate at a local squash tournament; many clubs or junior events would love a volunteer to add live commentary for viewers on a streaming link or even just over the PA system for spectators. This real-world practice is invaluable. You might also create your own content: perhaps start a squash podcast or YouTube channel where you discuss matches, or do post-match analysis. This can get you noticed and also refine your broadcasting skills. When you do get any gig, no matter how small, be professional: show up on time, do your prep on the players, and deliver the best commentary you can. It might reach only 20 people, but you are building experience and a reputation.
6. Listen and learn from others. Become a keen observer of current commentators. When watching squash (or any sport), do not just zone out to the commentary; actively listen to how the pros do it. Notice how they transition between topics, how they handle fast versus slow moments, how they incorporate stats or anecdotes. You can pick up a lot of subtle techniques this way. It is also useful to get feedback on your own commentary. If you have a mentor or a friend who is knowledgeable, ask them to listen to your practice recordings or a live attempt and give honest critique. Sometimes even fellow players can say "I like how you explained that tactic" or "I got a bit lost when you went off on that tangent." Constructive criticism will help you improve quickly.
7. Build your knowledge network. Aspiring commentators should also plug into the squash community. Talk to players and coaches whenever you can; their insights can become great material for commentary ("Her coach mentioned that she has been working on her volley game, and we are seeing that improvement today"). Keep up with squash news, rankings, and results. Social media can be useful: follow players' accounts or squash news sites. If you can attend pro events in person, do it; even if not commentating, you can observe how the production works and maybe meet people. Networking can lead to opportunities; for example, PSA SquashTV has occasionally run contests or try-outs for guest commentators. If you are in the right circles, you will hear about these. Do not be shy to express your interest.
8. Stay positive and enthusiastic. Cultivate the right mindset. On air, project positive energy. That does not mean you cannot critique a poor shot or call out a lack of effort, but keep the overall tone one of respect and enjoyment. Viewers tune in to enjoy the match, and they feed off the commentator's vibe. If you sound bored or overly negative, viewers will feel it. Enthusiasm is infectious; if you genuinely love what you are doing, that will draw people in. Off air, be patient with your progress. Early attempts might feel rough. Even top commentators continually learn and sometimes make mistakes (microphone gaffes, misidentifying a player, and so on happen; when they do, correct it and move on). What matters is continuous improvement. Every match you commentate is another rep that makes you better.

By following these tips, you will start developing that distinctive commentator's voice. It is a journey, from the first tentative practice sessions to possibly being behind a real microphone under pressure. Embrace the process.

Being a squash commentator can be rewarding: you stay connected to the sport you love, you enhance the experience for fellow fans, and you get a front-row seat to some amazing squash action, with the privilege of telling its story. With enough passion and persistence, you might become the voice that future young squash fans look up to.

Conclusion

Squash commentating is an art form at the intersection of sport and storytelling. A great commentator can turn a simple rally into a heart-pounding narrative and make viewers feel like they are right there on the court with the players.

We have seen how much thought and skill go into this craft, from mastering pacing and timing, to balancing sharp analysis with entertaining banter, to keeping up with the evolving media landscape. The voices of squash, past and present, have played a huge role in growing the game's appeal, bringing memorable moments to life with their words.

For fans, understanding the commentator's role can deepen your appreciation of those voices you hear during matches. And for aspiring commentators, there is a clear path to follow: know the game, practice your delivery, and share your passion. The beauty of squash commentary is that it is about connecting, connecting the audience with the sport's excitement and intricacies. When done well, it amplifies every drive, drop, and dive, turning matches into memories.

So next time you are watching a thrilling squash battle and you find yourself cheering or holding your breath along with the commentator's cadence, you will know it is not by accident; it is the art of squash commentating at work. Whether you are tuning in or speaking out, this craft is an integral part of what makes squash more than just a game of wall-bouncing balls, a spectacle we can all share.