Put it into practice: Playing different styles with DP

DP has a coaching pedigree that few can match, having been individual coach to the 2 top English players of recent years, Nick Matthew and Laura Massaro – both British Open and World Open Champions. Beyond that, DP also served as English National Coach during one of the most successful periods of the England Squash Programme.

We thought we’d tap into DP’s amazing tactical mind for this week’s brand new playlist, and explore his thoughts and insight on how to specifically combat a variety of different styles of players.

Whether it’s the artistic shot maker, the dogged runner, or the crafty lefty, we all have a style of play that we find difficult to play against. To help you overcome your particular bogey style, you need to come up with a plan to counteract that specific threat. This is unfortunately where a lot of players really struggle however, and frustration soon builds as you, again and again, fall foul of the same tactics.

Join DP through this series then, to help develop your strategic brain and all-round game. Explore the videos most pertinent to you, but take time also to check out the full series – there might be a nugget of wisdom there that you hadn’t considered before, that can take your play up another level.

To go along with DP’s series, we’ve put together a series of on-court sessions focused around improving your control, tactical awareness, and shot selection, that will help you start battling back against those styles that frustrate. Check them out below, and enjoy the challenge of unlocking the puzzle of those troublesome opponents! 

Put it into practice

Solo practice

This session is based around improving your skill and control, to help you combat different styles of play.

Pairs practice

This conditioned game session will help you practice and develop your tactical awareness and decision making.

Fitness session

Whatever style of play you’re up against, being strong and mobile will provide you with a big boost. Check out this repeat-sprint session to sharpen up your squash-specific conditioning.

Related content

Technique, tactics and nutrition with Paul Coll

This mini-documentary gives an insight into how Paul Coll works on court and what his aims are when focusing on technique and tactics, as well as how he fuels himself to push his body to the limits.

Coaches’ Eye with Jethro Binns and Jesse Engelbrecht

The series will aim to break down each rally, highlighting how different coaches see the game, and ultimately understanding their approach to helping improve a player’s performance.

Women playing men with Laura Massaro

In this series, Laura discusses how it feels to play men as a woman and how it can be beneficial to your game.

Let us know how you get on with the sessions, we’d love to hear your feedback!