Canada falls to USA at 17th Annual Battle of the Border

Over the weekend, 24 Canadian Juniors, their coaches, and support personnel travelled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to compete in the 17th annual Battle of the Border competition against the Team USA contingent. The event was held at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center from August 3rd to 6th. Team USA came out on top, winning 20 of 24 matches. 

The Battle of the Border, created in 2004, has since created amazing opportunities for Canadian and American junior players to compete internationally and gain experience in representing their country. The Battle consists of groups of eight athletes, four boys and four girls, in each of the U17, U15 and U13 categories. 

“Despite the results, the Battle of the Border event was a fantastic learning and training opportunity for our Canadian juniors,” said Samantha Cornett, Squash Canada’s Manager of Athlete Development and chaperone for the event. “For many, this was their first time travelling without their parents, learning under new coaches, competing internationally, and representing Canada. The athletes should all be proud of their efforts this weekend and excited for the opportunities to come.” 

“Being captain and playing at the battle of the border for Team Canada was an exhilarating and amazing experience,” shared team captain and GU17 athlete Sarah Aki. “It taught me the essence of teamwork, leadership and compassion for my teammates. Team Canada has a very strong and everlasting spirit that changes people. It certainly changed me. The support, the friends and the emotional bonding that was done made me more optimistic on my squash career. Not only in my squash career, but on my life. This experience taught me never to give up, always keep my head up high and win or lose with dignity and pride.” 

Jens Bolder, team captain and BU17 athlete shared: “It was a fantastic experience to be able to play together as a team in Philadelphia. It was an honour to captain Tea Canada. We played hard and supported each other relentlessly; we gave it our best! Thank you to Team USA for their hospitality and Team Canada looks forward to continuing to develop our game for next year’s battle!” 

“It was a wonderful experience being part of Team Canada,” said Maria Toorpakai, coach of the GU17 athletes. “I am so proud of all our athletes as they played hard and demonstrated best behaviour and sportsmanship. They were true ambassador for Canada being responsible, respectful, kind, and dedicated to excellence. Huge respect for all our coaches and manager, Sam, for incredible leadership, dedication, and effort in making it all possible.” 

Squash Canada 2023 Battle of the Border Roster:   

For full results – click here.