Squash: A History of the Game
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Book Overview
This definitive history of squash by journalist James Zug is a must-read for squash lovers and sports history buffs alike, capturing the evolution of one of America's greatest games. Step into the fast-paced world of squash with this ultimate deep dive into one of America's fastest-growing sports. This newly updated edition of Squash packs in fresh stories and insights, charting the racquet sport's evolution. From its scrappy beginnings in the 1850s, when English schoolboys invented the game in alleys and yards, to its arrival on US soil in 1884, squash has grown into a global phenomenon. Award-winning journalist James Zug takes readers on a fascinating journey, exploring defining moments like the pivotal shift in the 1990s from the one court size to another, a change that propelled the US to international squash dominance. The game has over 1.6 million players in this country, a growing presence in schools and colleges, and is on the brink of its next big milestone--making its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Packed with vibrant profiles of squash legends, Zug's narrative goes beyond the court. He uncovers the game's rich cultural roots, tracing its elite origins and its expansion into public and commercial clubs. Along the way, he captures the passion, drama, and camaraderie that make squash so much more than just a sport. In the tradition of iconic sports histories like David Halberstam's The Amateurs, Squash isn't just for players--it's for anyone who loves a great story. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or curious newcomer to the game, this is your definitive guide to the lasting legacy of squash.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0743229908
ISBN13:9780743229906
Release Date:September 2003
Publisher:Scribner Book Company
Length:384 Pages
Weight:1.30 lbs.
Dimensions:1.2" x 6.2" x 9.5"
Related Subjects
History of Sports Miscellaneous Racket Sports Sports & Outdoors Sports & Recreation SquashCustomer Reviews
5 ratings
Squash History
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 15 years ago
Thoroughly enjoyed reading the background on the creation and evolution of the best sport in the world. Escapes me why it hasn't made it into the Olympics at this point (editorial comment on the state of sport in the world)!!!
Calling all squash junkies!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
When I asked the squash pro at my club if he'd read Zug's book, he turned up his nose. He found much of the material self-indulgent. As for me - a person who took up the sport at a time when many others my age have retired their rackets - I admired the quality of Zug's writing and the way he unraveled the story of the game's evolution. I dug those historical tidbits (did you know the Titanic had a squash court?) and the tales of some of the sport's more eccentric players. Yeah, sure, there were some parts of SQUASH which "hit the nick and died" for me, but no big deal. I'd recommend this book to anyone who has been bitten by the SQUASH bug.
A Great Read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
"Squash: A History of the Game" was a very interesting read, and I especially recommend it for all players of Squash. Although dense at points, this book really gives a great history of how squash came to be. James Zug takes us through the transformation from a game named fives, first played against a kitchen chimeny wall, to raquets made from bamboo sticks, to the regulation size courts and oversized hyper titanium raquets we know today. It even explained why "Squash" is called squash, the mysterious question that nobody on my team seems to know the answer to. Im not going to tell you however, you'll have to read it on your own. Like I said before, I belive this book is more enjoyable for squash players. This is just my opinion however, so if you don't play squash I still suggest you try reading this book. Well anyway thats my 2 cents. Altogether I think this book is definitly a great read, and definitly very useful as a reference if you are writing an essay on the history of squash. Four star material. -Jalper
Like golf on TV...
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
...if you've never played golf, it's darn near unwatchable. If you've never played squash, I'm not sure this book is all that readable, save in small chunks. However, for a player such as me it's a great book. Most interesting are Zug's efforts at unravelling the origins of the game from the morass of legends, myths and speculations surrounding that whole English prison/public school debate; and his thoughts on the fairly recent conversion of the North American countries to the international softball game. He mourns, as I do somewhat, the loss of the quirky games and personalities that the American hardball game produced. If I had one quibble it would be the author's dwelling on the stories and athletes with ties to the Ivy League's perennial squash powers. I could have used a little less history of Harvard's stars of the 1920's and a little more on some less well-known squash luminaries. For example, Heather McKay, the Australian, won the British Open 16 consecutive years, didn't lose a single game in a tournament for nine straight years, etc., etc., but merits two paragraphs? Overall an impressive accomplishment for Mr. Zug. Well written, thoroughly researched, and heartfelt. Thanks!
Sports Brought to Life! Amazing Characters...Great History
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
Take your pick: Whether you're a sports nuts or a fan of history, you'll love this book. Zug catches you right away and pulls you into this fun, quirky, elite, competitve world. Even if you've never seen a squash game, this is a great read. You'll be delighted by the memorable characters and refreshing writing. A GREAT read!!
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