Squash Canada is saddened to announce the departure of Samantha Cornett, Manager of Athlete Development since 2021, effective September 6, 2024. Samantha leaves behind a tremendous legacy on squash in Canada and will remain as one of the great ambassadors of our sport as she begins her next adventure.
Samantha transitioned into the Squash Canada Athlete Development and Event portfolios in 2021 after retiring as one of Canada’s most successful squash athletes in history. As a player, Samantha captured 9 national titles, 8 Pan-Am medals including Team Gold in 2011, won 13 Professional Squash Association titles, and reached a career high of #23 in the world in 2018.
Samantha’s impact off the court is even more impressive with her infectious enthusiasm, warm smile, and genuine love of the sport leaving an indelible mark on all. Emerging from the pandemic, Sam brought a unique skill set and energy to the Squash Canada team, overseeing a revamped Athlete Development program and helping launch the Power Court Event program. She will leave behind a strong legacy including National squads, Regional Training Centers, the National Junior Circuit, and a unique and inspiring Glass Court program; all of which will help pave the way for our Olympic Inclusion in 2028.
“Squash Canada has benefited immensely from Samantha Cornett’s time at the organization. Her leadership in the Athlete Development and Event portfolios have significantly moved the sport in Canada forward as we enter our Olympic era. No doubt, she will continue to set a shining example for our community as one of the great ambassadors of our sport. Sam reinforced to all of us that you can be excellent at your endeavours and have integrity and fun while doing so – you do not need to choose between the two. We wish her all the best in the next stage of her life and know that she will always be part of the Squash Canada family,” shared Jamie Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer.
“It’s bittersweet to be leaving my role at Squash Canada; however, I have no doubt I’ll be involved again in the future in a different capacity,” said Samantha Cornett, Manager of Athlete Development. “This organization has given me so much as I played for Canada, and into my post-competitive career. It has been eye-opening to see the work that goes on behind the scenes, both from staff and from countless volunteers, to enable and empower our top Canadian squash athletes. Thank you so much to Jamie Nicholls for being a great mentor and helping me learn and grow. I am so excited to witness where squash in Canada goes over the next 4 years and beyond. Go Team Canada Go!”
Please join Squash Canada in wishing Samantha Cornett a fond farewell and celebrate her continued amazing impact on Squash in Canada.
