The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England were held from July 28 to August 8, and have come to a close but not without the Canadian squash team making history. The team consisted of Hollie Naughton (ON), Nicole Bunyan (BC), Nick Sachvie (ON), and David Baillargeon (QC) along with coach Graeme Williams, who all fought hard over the 10-day event.
The shining moment for the team was Hollie Naughton capturing the silver medal and becoming the first Canadian woman to medal in squash at the Commonwealth Games. For her efforts, she was named the Team Canada flag-bearer for the closing ceremony.
Naughton commented on her amazing week saying: “What an amazing experience the last couple of weeks have been. Loved every minute of representing Canada at the Commonwealth Games! Sharing this experience with my teammates, family and friends is something I will cherish. Medaling and being the closing ceremony flag bearer is truly a dream come true! I don’t think it’s all set in yet the magnitude of it all. Let’s hope for more memories like this! Bring on 2026!”
Another highlight of the Games was from Nick Sachvie and David Baillargeon reaching the Quarterfinals of the men’s doubles event. The men fought hard but were defeated by the eventual silver medalists from England.
The Individual event was also a success for Nicole Bunyan, Nick Sachvie and David Baillargeon as they all reached the round of 16, gaining valuable experience on the world stage at the Commonwealth Games.
“Definitely the biggest event I’ve been to. It was a memorable experience and can’t wait for the 2026 edition in Melbourne,” exclaimed David Baillargeon. “What Hollie achieved there is also a great motivation for all of us.”
Nick Sachvie had this to say about his experience: “The Games were special. It brings out your competitive spirit to the highest level. Whether it was on the court or at the Games room dominating David in Connect Four…it truly is an athletes dream to be apart of. Many thanks to coach Graeme and the Canadian staff for supporting us throughout the Games.”
“It was great to represent Canada at the commonwealth games! None of us had been before, so as a team we were all eager to do our best and get the most out of the whole experience,” stated Nicole Bunyan. “Graeme (and the rest of the team Canada staff) were such a great support. They were there to help us with everything we could possibly need, whether it be some pre match feeding, post training physio, or a quick massage.”
Coach Graeme Williams took time to express his gratitude and feelings by saying: “Firstly, I want to thank the players for their commitment in the buildup and at the Games. I was working with many of the players for the first time and it was a pleasure to be part of their journey. Obviously, the standout performance was Hollie’s silver medal. It is great for her but also for the Canadian squash community to share in her success. Nick and David were so close in the doubles and with a little more exposure I feel they could be a real force. Nicole gained valuable experience that will stand her in good stead for the future. Personally, I am extremely honoured to represent Squash Canada, and I hope that the performances of our athletes will inspire the next generation of Canadian squash players.”
The 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled for Victoria, Australia.
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