Between The Lines – With Laura Massaro & Ahad Raza.
Between The Lines - With Laura Massaro & Ahad Raza.
Podcast Description
What separates world class squash players from everyone else? It's not just talent, it's focus, strategy, mindset and the ability to keep learning.
Welcome to Between The Lines. A podcast hosted by former world number 1, Laura Massaro and elite performance coach Ahad Raza.
We break down what's really happening in high level squash and help you translate it into action.
This isn't just a theory, this is a growing community of curious players and coaches, dedicated to unlocking potential together.
Join us between the lines!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers on high-level squash performance, covering themes such as training techniques, movement styles, mental strategies, and the dynamics of coach-athlete relationships. Specific episodes like 'How to get fitter, faster and stronger' with Mark Campbell and 'Road to World #1' with David Pearson delve into the technical and psychological aspects that differentiate elite players, while also providing practical tips and insights for amateur players.
What separates world class squash players from everyone else? It’s not just talent, it’s focus, strategy, mindset and the ability to keep learning.
Welcome to Between The Lines. A podcast hosted by former world number 1, Laura Massaro and elite performance coach Ahad Raza.
We break down what’s really happening in high level squash and help you translate it into action.
This isn’t just a theory, this is a growing community of curious players and coaches, dedicated to unlocking potential together.
Join us between the lines!
Today’s episode features one of squash’s most distinctive and respected figures, James Willstrop.
A former World No.1, James reached the top of the rankings in 2012 and enjoyed an outstanding career that includes 23 professional titles, victories at the Tournament of Champions, and a Commonwealth Games gold medal. He also played a pivotal role in England’s international success, helping secure multiple World Team Championship titles and becoming the most capped England squash player in history with over 200 appearances.
But James’s story goes far beyond his achievements on court. Known as “The Marksman,” he has long brought a thoughtful, creative perspective to the sport. In his acclaimed book Shot and a Ghost, he offers a deeply personal insight into life on the professional tour, earning a shortlist spot for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year. He later followed it with Interviews with Inspiration, exploring the mindset of high performers across sport and beyond.
Since stepping back from the top level of competition, James has continued to shape the game through coaching, writing, mentoring, and even performing on stage — blending storytelling with his experiences from more than two decades in professional sport.
In this conversation, we explore his journey from Pontefract Squash Club to World No.1, and beyond — diving into his perspectives on competition, creativity, and what it truly means to dedicate your life to a sport.
If you'd like more information on our community then please email [email protected] and as always please let us know your thoughts on the episode.
Disclaimer
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