Schoolyard Squash: The Tin Line and the Service Box

Squash adapted to the schoolyard with paddles, tennis balls and a single wall. It keeps the basic ideas: the ball must hit the wall above a low line, and since both players share the space, you have to clear your opponent's path.

How to play

1. Mark a low line on the wall about half a meter up, like the tin, and on the ground a short line and two back service boxes (4 min).
2. In pairs, alternating rally: every shot hits the wall above the low line and may bounce once on the ground (6 min).
3. Serve: from one box, the ball must hit the wall and land in the opposite back box (5 min).
4. Game to nine; after hitting, players move back toward the center to give the opponent room (12 min).
5. Share: when was a let (replay) called for interference, and how can we avoid it (3 min).

Rules

• After hitting, clear the opponent's path to the ball and their line of shot.
• If there's any risk of hitting the opponent with the paddle or ball, hold the swing and replay the point.
• Never stand between the wall and the opponent when they are about to hit.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with visual impairments: large, bright ball and the wall line marked with thick tape.
• Limited mobility: play seated closer to the wall with two bounces.
• Students uneasy with close contact: start with the cooperative rally and choose whether to join the game.

Learning goals

• Learn the basic rules of squash.
• Send the ball into the wall above a line.
• Share the playing space safely.

Equipment for a class of 25

• beach paddles: 16
• tennis balls: 10
• chalk: 3
• masking tape: 2

Teacher tip

In real squash both players share the court and lets are part of the game; here they're your best safety tool. Use slightly worn tennis balls: they bounce lower and give more time.

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