A few weeks ago I ran across someone sharing their racquetball experiences and stating how their game improved because they played very good players and players at a higher level. Now, I do not disagree with this and every player who aspires to greatness knows this.
However, you also need to play players at a lower level to improve your game. When you play someone at your level or higher you will struggle to get to shots and probably be on the run quite a bit. Playing someone at a lower level may give you a lesser workout, but it will also allow you time to work on your shots.
The best racquetball of my life was not when I lived in Rochester, NY where 50% of the top players in the NorthEast lived. The best racquetball was played by yours truly when I moved downstate. I had no players who could compete with me in the club so I was forced to play juniors and adults that I instructed. In time all of the above began beating me but in the meantime I got much better with my skills. This probably would not have happened if I was playing really good players every day.
Lesson?
Do both. Play that player who has more skill but also play the player you know you can beat.
I remember telling a student of mine he had to play folks he knew he could beat a few years ago. His response?
“Great, let’s play tomorrow!”
Ouch!!