ASB & iSquash Bring Squash To Virtual Reality To Aim At New Generation!

A global initiative to introduce squash to the 'smartphone' generation has been launched in Munich, Germany, following a new joint venture between Munich-based developer Fun with Balls GmbH and the world's leading squash court manufacturer ASB.

Fun with Balls' latest innovation, the interactiveSquash (in short iSquash) concept transforms standard squash courts into interactive training and games centres - for the benefit of both regular squash players as well as newcomers looking for fun in an interactive squash workout.

iSquash uses regular squash equipment and a conventional court. The pioneering system is powered by a unique ball-tracking and projection system which transforms any regular squash court into a digitally-augmented playground or training facility.

The state-of-the-art invention provides a range of options - from simple games where images on the wall disappear when hit, to sophisticated coaching programmes designed for top professionals.

An accompanying interactiveSquash smartphone app, used to select a training module or game also offers a wide range of attractions - with access to a growing selection of games to training programmes. The app also lets players reserve and pay for court time on iSquash courts and other courts hosted at the same club.

Court-side, players can control which games they play from their phones.

Games are designed to be as engaging as possible with multiple levels, lively graphics and sounds. The iSquash motto is to get players moving and active "with a focus on the fun and not the burn!"

Training programmes are designed to hone skills and techniques which are specific to competitive squash. Players will receive instant visual feedback and assessments on their performance.

The iSquash facility has been unveiled at Sports4You in Munich. The family-owned sports centre was founded in 1984 and was one of the first in Munich to adopt squash. Following regular expansion, the facilities now feature 10 squash courts.

"We liked the idea of uniting the classic sport with the feeling of a video game," said centre manager Chrissi Holzmann. "Moreover, we are convinced that this new generation of squash will attract more people to it. We're excited to be part of this new development.

"Initially there were two very distinct reactions from visitors and members. The younger group were immediately excited by this upgrade and wanted to try it immediately. The older group was pretty sceptical," Holzmann acknowledged. "They were concerned that technology was intruding into their sport, their passion.

"However, the squash veterans quickly realised that the system still lets them play a proper game of good old fashioned squash, allaying their fears. They became curious and have come to love some of the training modules the system has to offer as a way to warm up."

interactiveSquash founder Markos Kern said: "We have taken the classic game of squash and given it an update for the 21st century.

"For me, the interesting part is that it gets people moving without even realising the sports aspect of it.

"We focus on a very ease use - we don't have different balls or different rackets. From professional squash players, through starters and to very small kids, anybody can have fun with it."

On Facebook, Egypt's two-time World Champion Ramy Ashour posted: "The squash revolution ... ?#?Soon ?#?staytuned", while Germany's world No.11 Simon Rösner said "I think it is amazing."

Christof Babinsky, the CEO of ASB, describes iSquash as 'a breakthrough for squash court owners and the digital world alike'.

"The new interactive experience will draw new audiences to the squash court, as well as providing a nice alternative to current players, a powerful training tool for professionals and a great way to get very young kids used to a squash court, even if they are not able to play yet," said Babinsky.

"But, most of all, it is a ton of fun."

For further information, please visit interactivesquash.com/

For general enquiries, contact mail@funwithballs.com - or for sales enquiries and advice, contact isquash@asbsquash.com