What I Learned about Training in Egypt with the Best in the World by Maddie Choi

TM Sporting Club Cairo, Egypt

🇪🇬 Why Egypt? The Global Squash Powerhouse

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to train in Egypt, the undisputed capital of squash. For two intense weeks, I trained alongside very talented junior players and under the guidance of dedicated coaches. It wasn’t just training—it was total immersion in a culture that lives and breathes squash.

Egypt is home to the current and past world #1s, and after just a few days there, I understood why. Their success isn’t just built on natural talent—it's a reflection of relentless hard work, a fierce training culture, and world-class coaching.

My Daily Training Schedule

Here’s a glimpse into a typical day during my time in Egypt:

1 Hour Solo Drills Focus on precision, rhythm, and repetition. Egyptian coaches emphasize discipline—these solo sessions, while at times can be dreadful, is a necessity.

1 Hour Fitness Endurance training and physical conditioning. Every session pushed me outside my comfort zone—and helped me improved my court speed and stamina.

1 Hour Private Coaching Individual sessions with highly experienced coaches. They picked apart my technique and decision-making, always pushing for improvements.

2 Hours Evening Match Play Competing and training alongside junior players was the most eye-opening part. The pace and intensity of their game gave me a new standard to strive for. In fact, I was inspired by 10-12 year olds who were smaller and younger but incredibly talented.

Lessons That Go Beyond Squash

Training in Egypt taught me more than how to hit a better length. I learned how to:

• Push through mental fatigue

  
  

• Stay focused under pressure

  
  

• Compete with confidence, not fear

  
  

• Respect the game and those who play it at the highest level

  
  

Photo Gallery

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  Private lesson with Coach Ali

  
  
  
  

  

  Checking out the Grand Egyptian Museum after training

  
  
  
  

  

  Group photo with players from all around the world

Watching, cheering and supporting Team USA players at the Egyptian Junior Open

Thinking of Training in Egypt? Here's What I Recommend:

If you're considering training in Egypt, please contact Rally for Squash for more information.

Final Thoughts

I still have a long way to go as I just started my squash journey, and while my aspirations are not to compete at the highest elite level, I am so glad I went to Egypt. It was both a cultural experience and a journey that reshaped how I approach the sport. I have a profound admiration for all those who want to train harder, work harder to become the best version of themselves.