Ex-Almanac reporter pens history of squash Ex-Almanac reporter pens history of squash (December 10, 2003)

James Zug, a former writer for the Almanac, has penned "Squash: A History of the Game," which traces the origins of the sport from 1884 when it was played in open-air courts in New Hampshire to pro tournaments played today in portable glass courts.

The book includes a foreword written by George Plimpton; photographs; a comprehensive overview of the game; and an appendix listing tournament winners.

The book covers squash legends such as Harry Cowles, whose Harvard teams never lost a match; Eleo Sears, who swam in the icy Atlantic in February before matches; and the Khan family, who emerged from the Khyber Pass to build the world's greatest squash dynasty in North America, said Mr. Zug.

Even the Titanic plays a role. The book describes the concrete squash court on the ill-fated ship, he said.

Mr. Zug currently lives with his wife in Washington, D.C.

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