The origins of the game of "Squash" is a rather elusive subject.  It seems the game of "Squash Rackets" as it was known up until recently, evolved with a number of influences shaping its creation.

The first known reference to a rebounding ball game was made by an English schoolmaster in 1581.  Then in 1865, a game which had evolved from the English game of "Rackets" was played in an enclosed court at the Harrow school. This lead to the building of similar courts at Rugby, and at other private houses and clubs.

At that time there, was no standard size for courts, the standard court finally being formalized after the first world war. The process was started by the Tennis and Rackets Association in 1911 but it was not until 1922 that Championships were played. The rackets used at the turn of the century were not unlike those which are used today (although not nearly as efficient) but the balls differed greatly.

Balls were constructed of thin rubber and were quite soft. They also had a number of holes in them which caused the ball to collapse when hit hard. This 'squashy" ball along with the "Rackets" connection were probably the origins of the name of "Squash Rackets". From being a sport that was seen as a "second" sport for most of the early part of this century, it quickly spread into a game that is now played world wide in over 120 countries.

There are two versions of squash - the International version and the American version. The American version is played in the USA and some parts of Mexico and Canada and involves different court dimensions and slightly different rules. For example, servers win a point each time their opponent fails to return the ball in-court before it bounces twice in International rules, but in American rules both server and receiver can score points (tennis style scoring). However, in America, typically the International rules are adhered to regardless of the size of the court.

There are also two types of games - hard ball and soft ball.  Soft ball tends to be the game of choice since it is easier to learn, has longer rallies leading to a better workout and is basically less damaging physically.

Martin vs Eyles
Brett Martin (Australia), foreground, and Rodney Eyles (Australia) in a battle at the "T"

Talbot vs Martin
Mark Talbott (USA) and Rodney Martin (Australia) focused on the ball

Jackman
Cassie Jackman (England) intent on winning the rally 

Nichol vs Walker
Peter Nicol (Scotland) and Damian Walker (USA) battle for court position and the point