Squash57, previously known as Racquetball in the UK, is a variation of squash played on a standard squash court with a larger, bouncier ball and a shorter racket. The game is designed to be less physically demanding than regular squash, with longer rallies and a slower pace, making it more accessible to beginners, older players, and those seeking a lower-impact racquet sport.
Key Differences from Traditional Squash
Equipment: Squash57 employs a larger, more bouncy ball and a shorter racket, contrasting with the smaller, less bouncy ball and longer racket used in traditional squash.
Gameplay: The livelier ball in Squash57 leads to longer rallies and a slightly slower pace, providing players with more time to react and reducing the need for intense lunging movements.
For more information about Squash57 history and rules check out the following pages from the World Squash Federation (WSF):
Wheelchair Squash57 or Para Squash
Wheelchair squash57 or para squash is an adaptive version of the traditional squash game that enables players with mobility impairments to participate. It is typically played using a standard squash court and adapted rules to accommodate wheelchair users. In wheelchair squash, players may use a larger, bouncier ball (similar to Squash57) to allow for easier ball control and longer rallies. The format and ball choice in wheelchair squash often aligns with the principles of Squash57, making the game a more accessible format for players with mobility challenges, allowing enjoyment of the sport in an inclusive and adaptive way!
Over the years para squash has become a growing area of interest in the squash world, check out what the WSF has to share about the amazing game!
https://www.worldsquash.org/addictive-thrilling-and-fast-paced-wheelchair-squash-a-hit-in-canada/
SNS Wheelchair Squash Programming
At Squash Nova Scotia, we are deeply committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and diverse squash community that welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Recognizing the transformative power of sport, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone to experience the joy and benefits of squash.
We are particularly passionate about introducing and expanding wheelchair squash and Squash57 programs, understanding that these adaptations open doors for individuals with mobility challenges to engage in the sport. In 2025, SNS launched a pilot program for introducing wheelchair squash to members of the SNS community. With the success of the pilot program, we are thrilled to announce the IDEA committee standing for Inclusion Diversity Equity & Accessibility. They will be dedicated to developing more programming for wheelchair squash and we are eager to see these initiatives come to life.