What to Expect at a Big Time Squash Playday

So you’ve heard about Big Time Squash and you’re wondering what actually happens on the day. Good — that means you’re close to signing up. Here’s exactly what to expect at a Big Time Squash event, from the moment you join the group to the final handshake on court.

It starts in the WhatsApp group

Every event begins online. The date, venue, and start time drop in the WhatsApp group, and the 16 spots open up. They fill fast — squash players are nothing if not eager — so the golden rule is simple: see the announcement, claim your spot. Once the list is full, the draw is locked and the bracket goes live on the Playday page.

A full-placement bracket, not a knockout

This is the part that surprises newcomers. At most tournaments, one loss sends you home. Not here. Big Time Squash runs full-placement brackets, which means every player is guaranteed multiple matches no matter how the first one goes. Lose your opener? You drop into the bracket fighting for the next position down. Win or lose, you keep playing until your final placement — 1st to 16th — is settled on court. You came for squash; you’ll get a full day of it.

The format on the day

• 16 players, one bracket. Seeded loosely so the early rounds stay competitive.
• Best-of-three games to 11, point-a-rally. Long enough to be a real test, short enough to keep the day moving.
• Every match refs itself. Friendly, honest, and self-officiated — the Big Time way.

It counts toward your rating

Every result from every event feeds the BIG rating, so the squash you play today shapes where you stand next time out. Climb the rankings, defend your spot, or chase down a rival — the rating keeps it all honest. Final brackets and standings go up on the results page after each event.

What to bring

Your racquet, non-marking court shoes, eye protection, plenty of water, and a towel. Snacks to share are always welcome — half the fun of these events is the crowd between matches. New to the sport? Read our quick guide to what squash is first, then get in touch to grab a spot at the next one. See you on court.