National Squash League: US city team drafts, running clocks and fan led

If you’ve been a part of the squash social media ethos as of late (outside the trick shots), you’ve likely encountered promotions for an exciting and distinctive squash initiative – the National Squash League (NSL).

Spearheaded by US national players Timmy Brownell and Spencer Lovejoy, and piloted last year, the league has gained significant momentum. Big announcements have been rolling in since the New Year, with 40 players entering the draft, including standouts like Victor Crouin (11), Youssef Ibrahim (22), Auguste Dussourd (26), and former college heavyweights Sam Scherl and Harrison Gill. The NSL seems poised to deliver something extraordinary for the squash community.

So, what is it exactly?

The NSL is a team-based league with similarities to the structures of US College Squash and European Leagues. It also borrows traits from major US sports teams, with each NSL team representing a specific city, and players determined through a draft system. Each team will comprise four players – three starters and one reserve player – drafted by the owner representing their city in the US.

The kicker lies within the rules of this league and here’s a quick overview…

Instead of the conventional three separate matches to determine a team’s victory, as seen in World Teams gameplay, the NSL adopts a ‘Running Clock’ format – a total playtime of 70 minutes divided into three periods (20-20-30). The first two periods are worth 1 point each, and the final period is worth 2 points. In case of a tie after the three periods, a 5-minute overtime is played, with no substitutions allowed. Substitutions are permitted twice in the first two periods and three times in the last period. It’s crucial to note that each player must fulfill a 15-minute playtime requirement.

Another intriguing aspect of the NSL revolves around ‘Power Plays.’ While variations of ‘Power Plays’ have been witnessed on the PSA World Final Tour, this version adds its own twist. When a team initiates a ‘Power Play,’ only that team can score points, while the opposing team cannot. Each team can use a ‘Power Play’ once in each period, lasting 2 minutes, except for the final 30-minute period, where it is reduced to 1 minute. ‘Power Plays’ cannot be called simultaneously by both teams, nor can they be used with 4 minutes or less on the clock.

Why NSL could change the landscape of squash

Team-based squash events and tournaments have consistently garnered positive reception from squash fans over the years. Whether it’s the spirited crowds of the Europe Leagues, the gripping drama cultivated by US College Squash, or the camaraderie fostered by World Teams, these events have always captivated audiences.

Yet, the common pitfall lies in their transience, not allowing fans to invest in specific teams or players for an extended period. The introduction of a long-term team-based league format at the sport’s highest level is unprecedented in the squash world. While much of the NSL remains experimental and may face skepticism, the attempt to revolutionize the live squash experience is admirable.

The prospect of following a team throughout a season, rather than just one specific player, has the potential to attract a broader viewership. Moreover, the incorporation of city allegiance, a selling point in sports beyond squash, particularly with major US cities, could serve as a friendly way to bring in new viewers unfamiliar with the sport. The draft featuring players from diverse nationalities and squash backgrounds allows fans to invest in these players both within and outside the league.

Initially, the changes in the NSL’s rules and gameplay might appear overwhelming. However, upon closer inspection, the league addresses many common frustrations that squash spectators may experience on the tour.

The fixed periods of play ensure the audience is guaranteed 70 minutes of high-quality, high-drama squash. Additionally, it will be fascinating to see how teams leverage power plays and substitutions to their advantage in building their rosters. Team-oriented squash has consistently delivered intense moments, making this season particularly intriguing.

The NSL undoubtedly deviates from the norm of what squash fans are accustomed to. Given the endorsement from numerous top PSA professionals, it is only fair for squash fans to give this new initiative a chance.

At its core, the NSL was founded to counter the frustration of squash events not generating the excitement they deserve. The league addresses these issues through exciting new rules and structure.

The distinctive and humour-filled nature of the official website, along with entertaining player bios, adds to the overall appeal. Enjoy, squash fans, as the NSL aims to take the community by storm, starting with the draft on March 2. Stay up to date with all the latest news on nslsport.com