Drives and lengths · Intermediate
How to play the straight attacking volley length in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the straight attacking volley length.
In short
Consider the straight attacking volley length when a comfortable airborne ball can be intercepted near the T while the opponent is still recovering. Take time away and send the opponent deep without overreaching or losing wall tightness.
Watch the trajectory
Blue dashed lines show realistic arrivals one at a time. Yellow shows the strike and outgoing path. The opponent and recovery zone provide tactical context. No players or rackets are shown.
Trajectory, in words
- The blue path or paths show how the ball can arrive before the strike.
- The yellow path reaches front wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted deep length target; the recovery zone anticipates the likely reply.
Blue shows the representative arrival or alternatives converging on one strike. Yellow shows the straight or angled outgoing path for the straight attacking volley length. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- A comfortable airborne ball can be intercepted near the T while the opponent is still recovering.
- You can reach the strike point in balance rather than forcing the shot.
- You have a clear view, direct access, a safe swing and an unobstructed intended ball line.
Opponent cue
Where should the opponent be?
The opponent is behind, across court or moving away from the straight channel.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Take time away and send the opponent deep without overreaching or losing wall tightness.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- A hurried straight length
- A defensive boast
- A crosscourt escape
Follow-up: Rebalance near the T and keep the next volley available.
Where do I recover?
Land balanced near the T with room to react to a boast or scraped length.
Common mistake
Reaching for a volley that would be more accurate after the bounce.
Safety
Volley only with a clear view, access, swing and front-wall line.
Sources and review
This is a source-aligned Squash Dog editorial illustration, reviewed 6 September 2026. It represents one useful pattern, not the only valid trajectory, a governing-body endorsement or personal coaching advice.