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Insights Library — All Posts by Category
Explore the Racquet Sports Institute Insights Library—a single place for decision-grade analysis, benchmarks, and practical playbooks. Because no courts, no players, our content keeps facilities at the center while connecting market signals to design and day-to-day operations. You’ll find deep dives on ecosystem trends and country developments, proven facility models, smart management (planning, community, programming, operations tech), architecture that turns strategy into built performance, updates on our forthcoming AI.
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The Commercialisation of Racquet Sports: Investment Trends and the Curious Case of Squash
Racquet sports are booming with private investment, media deals, and rapid global expansion. Tennis, padel, pickleball, and badminton have embraced this trend—reshaping how they grow and engage. Squash, despite nearly 10,000 global facilities and presence in major games, remains one of the few sports not yet commercially scaled. Its strong philanthropic base shows impact—but the next step requires visionary investment.
Elevating Racquet Sports Ecosystem Together: Explore the New SFN Website!
Explore the newly redesigned SFN website dedicated to supporting multi-racquet facilities with enhanced tools, insights, and community-driven collaboration. Discover how SFN's updated vision and mission foster innovation, shared growth, and inclusivity across all racquet sports. Recently recognized as the 2025 Sporting Association of the Year by Corporate LiveWire.
Philadelphia’s Specter Center: The US National Squash Hub Built for Growth, Not Profit
Philadelphia’s Specter Center is the U.S.'s largest squash facility and national hub, focused on access, excellence, and community—not profit. Opened in 2021, it blends historic architecture with cutting-edge amenities, hosts elite training and major events, and supports grassroots programs. Built with $27M in donor funding, it exemplifies how mission-driven infrastructure can grow the sport for all.
Is Squash the Most Underrated Sport Aligned with the IOC’s Criterias?
Is squash the most overlooked sport that perfectly aligns with IOC values? Played in 185+ countries and part of major Games, squash champions sustainability, youth, equality, and fair play—yet remains under the radar. Discover why it's time the world sees squash as truly Olympic-worthy.
Spotlight on Austria: The Story Behind the Austrian Squash Challenge
Discover the inspiring story behind the Austrian Squash Challenge, led by 19-time national champion Aqeel Rehman. From grassroots outreach to hosting a PSA tournament in a busy Salzburg mall, this initiative is redefining squash in Austria. With kids’ programs, public engagement, and long-term vision, it’s a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can revive a sport — one court and one community at a time.
One Sport, Many Courts: Why Context Matters in Squash Construction
SFN’s deep dive into squash court construction exposes a critical truth: not all courts are created equal. From performance risks to financial fallout, poor planning can cost everything. Prestigious glass courts may look stunning, but can be a disaster in the wrong setting. With global cases like Open Squash NYC and major builds in Riyadh, it’s time for the WSF specs to evolve — or risk holding the sport back.
Squash "will enter the Olympics" for the first time, and the Chinese team will start from scratch
China is investing in cross-discipline talent, hiring top coaches, and integrating squash into sports schools, clubs, and campuses. With long-term planning and grassroots development, the country aims to build a competitive team and boost national interest in the sport.
What Makes Squash Courts Different – Part 4: Flooring, Glass Back Walls Lighting and Climate Control
Part 4 of the SFN series highlights key infrastructure elements that define quality squash courts: flooring, glass back walls, lighting, and climate control. It outlines essential safety standards, planning tips, and technical requirements for optimal performance, durability, and player comfort. Facility operators gain clear guidance to create safe, high-performing environments aligned with international best practices.
What Makes Squash Courts Different – Part 3: Characteristics of Court Wall Types
Discover how different squash court wall types impact acoustics, ball behaviour, maintenance, and long-term performance. A must-read for facility operators, architects, and investors planning or upgrading squash courts.
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