WOMEN IN SQUASH by Maddie Choi

Squash has long been recognized as a sport with a global footprint, engaging players across diverse demographics. However, when examining the participation of women in squash, distinct patterns and challenges emerge.

Historically, squash has seen a gender disparity in participation. Data indicates that the sport is predominantly male, with approximately 84% male players and 16% female players, primarily in their 20s and early 30s. Despite this, initiatives like Women's Squash Week have contributed to increased female participation. For instance, women's participation has doubled since 2008, with over 30,000 matches played annually according to the East Coast Squash Academy.

At the elite level, women's representation varies by country. In the 2022 PSA Women's World Squash Championship, 19 nationalities were represented among the 64 participants. Egypt led with 18 players, followed by the USA with 5 and England with 7. According to Research Gate Wikipedia, this distribution underscores Egypt's dominance in women's squash and highlights the sport's international reach.

In summary, while women's participation in squash has seen growth, ongoing efforts are essential to address existing disparities. By understanding the demographics and challenges faced by women in squash, we hope that through clinics and camps, we can reach a wider audience to foster greater inclusivity and equity within the sport.