I just completed a one week intensive squash training with Premier Performance Squash. The PPS team along with Tim Bacon and of course world number one Karim Darish and his wife Engy, and world number twenty Miguel Rodriguez, created a superb, unique and effective intensive training course that centered around the game of squash. The sessions using the game theory approach to coaching, emphasized the Egyptian style being played so successfully by Karim, and many top world class players.
The course addressed all ages and all levels of experience. I am near 60 and a new player, while other attendees were in their early teens and very experienced players, and everything in-between. The blend of adults with Juniors was fantastic. As adults we often forget what it is like to be a kid again, and I can say that one of the most enjoyable aspects of the camp was being around the fresh energy of the younger players, and the feeling that everything was taken care of for me, all I had to do was focus on squash, every thing else was flawlessly attended to by Haseeb and Sahel. They successfully grouped us in terms of ability and all through the week adjusted things in real time so that players always remained balanced and able to work well performing drills and conditional games together.
The coaching ratio was superb, the level of coaching exceeded all my expectations. The ability to pop on the court with the world number one at any time and tweak a stroke or ask about strategy was invaluable. And to sit with Karim and watch DVD's of matches between him and other players while he commented was unforgettable.
The drills and conditional games are designed and grouped in a way that emphasizes the Egyptian style of 'attacking' squash, and the teaching style was based on the latest information and theories about how best to train and improve ones skills. Interspersed with the court time were informational talks on strategy, fitness, pre and post match preparation, nutrition and sports psychology. Even the pace of the week was carefully calibrated, expertly increasing and then decreasing the level of intensity and activity so as to minimize any injuries and yet maximize court time.
The evenings were fun as adults, kids, pros and beginners all joined together for activities or just watching a movie. Swimming, frisbee, soccer, rock climbing and other activities kept everyone interested, and the opportunity to casually chat with the pros while watching a movie allowed us to get to know them as people as well as professionals.
I feel that I obtained a wealth of useful, effective, cutting edge information about virtually every aspect of squash. I know my strokes, strategy, training, and fitness will all be improved as I apply what I learned during my session.
I would definitely recommend Premier Performance Squash to any serious player, at any age and any level. This won't be my last visit, I can guarantee that..
Chris K., California
This past summer I attended the Premier Performance Squash Training Session with lead coach Karim Darwish.
Each day, the trainees engaged in five-six hours of intense squash - drills and fitness. With ten courts there was more than enough space for everyone to be on court. Scattered through the sessions – were individual sessions with all the coaching staff – from playing and drilling with Karim, Engy and Miguel, to more technical sessions with Tim Bacon.
I especially liked how Premier Performance Squash videotaped everyone’s matches and went over each point with either praise or suggestions for improvement. They also spent valuable time on the mental and strategic aspects of squash.
The off-court part of the camp was especially great. The food and facilities were excellent. Each evening there were activities that ranged from rock climbing, intramural sports, or just hanging out and watching videos with Karim.
Everyone was taken care of with absolute respect and each person treated the other as though they were part of a family. I’m already looking forward to the next Premier Performance camp!
In the end, my skill level changed drastically for the better from entering the camp to exiting it. This camp lived up to its name.
Reid J.,Ohio