How to Get Recruited to College for Squash

If you’re a squash player—or the parent of a squash player—who is thinking about opportunities to play squash in college, you will need to understand the nuances of collegiate squash recruiting. With limited spots on squash teams and a high level of competition, it’s crucial to know what it takes to stand out. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about how to navigate the college squash recruiting process and increase your chances of making it onto a collegiate squash team.

 

College Squash Is a (Small) Numbers Game

In the world of college squash, the competition is fierce due to the limited availability of roster spots. Varsity college squash teams are relatively small, typically consisting of 10 to 20 players. As a result, college coaches may recruit only one or two players per year, making every spot highly coveted.

Adding to the challenge, there are only 37 colleges and universities in the United States with varsity college squash teams, compared to over 650 schools with NCAA football programs. This limited pool of programs means that squash recruiting is not only competitive but also exclusive. If you are a high school student athlete who wants to play college squash at the varsity level, you need to be among the best in the nation to catch the attention of college coaches.

 

Academic Factors in College Squash Recruiting

College squash is unique in that many of the schools with varsity squash programs are Ivy League universities and top-tier Division III institutions. Neither Ivy League schools nor Division III schools offer athletic scholarships, meaning that student athletes are often competing for admission based on both their athletic and academic achievements.

Aspiring squash players must maintain a high GPA and excel on standardized tests to meet the academic standards of these institutions. While being an outstanding squash player can enhance your chances of admission, it’s not a “back door” into these competitive schools. Coaches and admissions officers will expect recruits to meet the same academic benchmarks as other students admitted to the institution.

Furthermore, recruits will typically apply through the Early Decision or Early Action process to demonstrate the strength of their interest in the school. Balancing the rigorous demands of tournament travel, practice schedules, and academic excellence is key to becoming a strong candidate in the college squash recruiting process.

 

Preparing for College Squash Recruitment

If you have a goal to join the student athletes and squash players at your dream school or even secure athletic scholarships, you better get started now.

Build Your Ranking

One of the most critical factors in getting recruited for college squash is your ranking on the U.S. Squash leaderboard. College coaches heavily rely on these rankings to evaluate potential recruits. Regular participation in tournaments will not only improve your skills but also help you climb the rankings.

For international players, being ranked at the top of your country’s national squash standings is equally important. Coaches are looking for players who consistently compete at a high level and demonstrate the ability to win under pressure.

Play in the Right Tournaments

To maximize your chances of recruitment, aim to participate in high-profile squash tournaments. Events such as the U.S. Junior Open, British Junior Open, and regional championships for squash players are excellent opportunities to showcase your skills. These tournaments often attract collegiate level coaches scouting for talent, making them ideal venues to make an impression.

Before attending a tournament, research which coaches will be present and send them an email introducing yourself. Let them know you’ll be competing and provide details about your ranking, recent accomplishments, and aspirations to play squash at the collegiate level. This proactive approach can set you apart from other players.

Network with College Coaches

Building relationships with college coaches is a vital part of the recruiting process. Start by researching the squash teams and student-athletes at schools you’re interested in and reaching out to their coaches. Most colleges have recruitment forms and information on athletic scholarships on their athletics websites—fill these out and include your athletic resume, highlight recruitment video, and academic transcripts.

When communicating with coaches, be professional and concise. Share your achievements, rankings, and upcoming tournament schedule. Additionally, express your genuine interest in the school and its squash program. Remember, college coaches are not only looking for talented athletes but also for student athletes who will be a good fit for their team culture.

Balance Academics and Athletics

The dual demands of excelling in both academics and squash can be challenging, but they are essential for success in the college recruiting process. Schools with varsity squash teams expect recruits to demonstrate discipline, time management, and a commitment to their studies.

To stay competitive academically:

• Prioritize your coursework and maintain a strong GPA.
• Prepare thoroughly for standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.
• Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses to prove your ability to thrive in rigorous courses.

Balancing academics with an intensive squash schedule may require sacrifices, but the effort will pay off when it comes to earning a spot on a college squash team.

 

The Role of Club Squash Teams

Playing for a competitive club squash team is often a prerequisite for recruitment. Club teams provide high-level coaching, frequent practice sessions, and opportunities to compete in national and international tournaments. Many top junior players hone their skills through club teams, as high school squash programs may not offer the same level of competition or exposure.

Joining a club team also helps you build connections within the squash community, which can be invaluable during the recruitment process. Coaches and teammates can provide guidance, support, and even recommendations to college coaches.

 

Exploring Non-Varsity Options

While varsity squash teams are highly competitive, many colleges and universities also offer club squash programs. These programs allow student athletes to continue playing squash at a high level without the intense commitment required by varsity teams.

Club teams often compete against other schools in regional and national tournaments, providing a competitive yet more flexible environment. For players who love the game but aren’t aiming for varsity recruitment, club squash can be an excellent alternative.

 

A Comprehensive List of Varsity Squash Programs

Below is a list of the 37 colleges and universities with varsity squash teams:

• Amherst College (Men’s & Women’s)
• Bard College (M & W)
• Bates College (M & W)
• Bowdoin College (M & W)
• Chatham University (M & W)
• Colby College (M & W)
• Columbia University (M & W)
• Connecticut College (M & W)
• Cornell University (M & W)
• Dartmouth College (M & W)
• Denison University (M & W)
• Dickinson College (M & W)
• Drexel University (M & W)
• Fordham University (M)
• Franklin & Marshall College (M & W)
• Georgetown University (W)
• Hamilton College (M & W)
• Harvard University (M & W)
• Haverford College (M & W)
• Hobart & William Smith Colleges (M & W)
• Middlebury College (M & W)
• MIT (M)
• Mount Holyoke College (W)
• Princeton University (M & W)
• St. Lawrence University (M & W)
• Stanford University (W)
• Trinity College (M & W)
• Tufts University (M & W)
• U.S. Naval Academy (M)
• University of Rochester (M)
• University of Pennsylvania (M & W)
• University of Virginia (M & W)
• University of Western Ontario (M)
• Vassar College (M & W)
• Wesleyan University (M & W)
• Williams College (M & W)
• Yale University (M & W)

 

Join a Team of College Squash Players at Your Top School

Getting recruited for college squash is a challenging but rewarding process. By building your ranking, participating in tournaments, maintaining strong academics, and networking with college coaches, you can position yourself as a top recruit. Even if varsity squash isn’t the right fit, club programs offer excellent opportunities to continue playing the sport you love.

If you’re looking for personalized guidance to navigate the college squash recruiting process, Spark Admissions is here to help. Contact us today to start planning your pathway to collegiate success.

 

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