Section 4: Players & Officials
4.1 Players
A singles match is contested between two players. Each player is responsible for knowing and applying the rules of the game. In the absence of a Referee, players must conduct play under the rules in a spirit of fair play, calling lets and strokes as required. Players may request a let or call for a stroke when appropriate interference occurs.
A player may not receive coaching or instruction during a match except during the interval between games. Communication from coaches or spectators during a rally is not permitted. Violation of this rule may result in a Conduct Warning.
4.2 The Marker (WSF Rules of Squash, Rule 16)
The Marker calls the score and announces decisions. Specific duties include:
- Calling "Fault," "Foot fault," "Not up," "Down," or "Out" for incorrect play
- Repeating the Referee's decisions and calling the score after each rally
- Calling "Hand out" to indicate a change of service
- Announcing "Match ball" or "Game ball" when applicable
If a Marker is unsure whether a ball was down or out, the Marker shall not make a call and shall allow the rally to continue. The Marker's call of "Not up" or "Down" ends the rally immediately.
4.3 The Referee (WSF Rules of Squash, Rule 17)
The Referee is responsible for the conduct of the match and has final authority over all decisions. Specific duties include:
- Deciding all appeals by players against the Marker's calls (Rule 17.1)
- Awarding lets and strokes when interference occurs (Rule 12)
- Applying Conduct regulations (Rule 15)
- Stopping play for injury, bleeding, or dangerous conditions
- Awarding games or the match in cases of Conduct
The Referee's decision on all matters of fact is final and cannot be appealed. A player may ask the Referee to review a Marker's call; the Referee's ruling on such an appeal is also final.
4.4 Video Replay (VAR/Hawk-Eye)
At WSF World Championships and major PSA events where video replay technology is available, the Referee may use video review to assist in determining whether a ball was in or out, or for other factual decisions at the Referee's discretion.
4.5 Match Officials for Self-Officiated Play
When no officials are appointed (recreational or club play), both players act as joint referees. Either player may call a let. Any dispute about whether a ball was good should result in a let being played. Players are expected to make fair and honest decisions.