About Us

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The Squash Rackets Federation of India

(Affiliated to World Squash Federation / Asian Squash Federation / Recognised by Govt. of India)

The Squash Rackets Federation of India

History of the Federation

Activities of the Federation

SRFI Office Bearers

SRFI Affiliated / Associate Members

Registered Office:

Khivraj Complex II,
2nd Floor, No. 480 Anna Salai,
Chennai 600035,
India,
Tel: +91 44 2434 0252,
Web: www.indiasquash.com.

History of the Federation

Squash has been played in India since the pre-war days. To a large extent it was introduced by the British forces that built squash courts in military cantonments and private clubs as an outlet for their sporting interests. In the early days squash had the following of a smattering few who were either from the forces, members of private clubs or children returning from studies abroad. It certainly fitted the name it was given at that time – a bourgeois sport. An organised activity for the promotion of the game was non-existent. Over time, however, things changed. The Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) was formed to oversee the promotion and development of the sport in India. Needless to mention results did not rush in with a gush as a lack of systematic structure was posing unending problems. Non-existence of public facilities, lack of qualified manpower and public awareness of the game was pathetic. As time went on we saw minor improvement in the situation. 5 years ago the SRFI forged ahead with some dynamic plans. Squash promotion, development and performance at all levels in India have escalated more in the last 10 years than in the last 50.

The SRFI headquarters is currently in Chennai. It has more than 20 State Associations and affiliated units. All these units are actively involved in the promotion and development of the game. As is usually the case with many sports, the metros have dominated in terms of activities and creditable performances. Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai are the current front-runners. Nevertheless it is the aspiration of the association that every one gets a fair share of the pie.

Over the last few years the Squash Rackets Federation of India has formalised a long term development plan to transform India into one of the leading countries on the world circuit. A lot of effort has gone into nurturing and developing our juniors and we are delighted with our performances over the past decade. The last few years have been the coming of age of Indian squash, with our players winning laurels at the international arena.

Activities of the Federation

The SRFI Conducts Various Activities during the Year

Coaching camps.

Tournaments (National & International).

Daily training at the Indian Squash Academy.

Referee Clinics.

Participates in International competitions.

Level 1, 2 & 3 diploma courses.

Summary of Long Term Development Plan

Squash is a physically and mentally demanding sport. Players have to constantly monitor their health so as to be able to give the maximum effort during training. The overall fitness level of our players is average and the “psychological fitness” of most of our players is below average. Efforts will be made to enhance both these important ingredients. As for the technical and tactical components, players will require, in addition to regular structured training, constant exposure to tournaments at home and abroad. Professional players must also be continuously brought in for sparring and training.

Coaches have been identified to handle squads on a long-term basis. More players will have to be encouraged to join PSA and Wispa and be full time professionals. In the long run we will not be able to sustain some of the good results we have achieved so far, or even go for better results if we are going to rely on only a few full time players. Like the top squash playing nations in the world we will need more full time squash players. With the co-operation from the Indian Government and sponsors we should make attractive packages to coax potential “star players” to commit 4 – 5 years at least to full time squash.

In a nutshell, the preparation of our players will involve training at home, and or abroad, sparring with invited professionals, going on tours and playing in competitions. A handful of players will be earmarked and put on a fast track. These are ‘talented players’ who will be part of a special project squad. Coaches, to help them excel at the international level, quicker than the rest, will give them personal attention.