Squash Canada announces that Samantha Cornett will conclude her role as Director of Athlete Development at the end of March 2026, as she steps into a new professional chapter in a club coach capacity. While her time in this leadership position is coming to a close, Samantha’s connection to Squash Canada and her impact on the sport remain enduring. We will see her soon as she will be coaching for Canada at the 2026 World Squash Junior Championships in July.
Samantha returned to Squash Canada in March 2025, bringing with her deep institutional knowledge, renewed perspective, and a continued passion for supporting Canadian athletes. Her return reflected a shared commitment to strengthening the athlete pathway and building on the momentum of recent years as squash enters an exciting new era.
A retired athlete of exceptional distinction, Samantha remains one of Canada’s most accomplished squash players. Her competitive career included 9 Canadian National titles, 8 Pan American Games medals—including Team Gold in 2011—13 Professional Squash Association titles, and a career-high world ranking of No. 23 in 2018.
Across her time with Squash Canada, both prior to and following her return, Samantha played a pivotal role in shaping the Athlete Development and Event portfolios. As Director of Athlete Development, her leadership supported the continued evolution of National Squads, Regional Training Centres, the National Junior Circuit, and an innovative Glass Court program. These initiatives have helped lay a strong foundation for the future of Canadian squash, including its Olympic aspirations.
Equally significant has been Samantha’s presence within the community. Known for her energy, approachability, and genuine care for athletes and colleagues, she has left a lasting impression on staff, coaches, volunteers, and players across the country.
“Samantha’s leadership, insight, and authenticity have continued to strengthen our athlete development system during a critical period on the road to the LA28 Olympics. While we will miss her contributions in this role, Sam’s influence and connection to Squash Canada will absolutely continue. She exemplifies what it means to give back to the sport,” said Jamie Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer.
“I’ve been incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Squash Canada team and contribute during such an important time. This organization has shaped so much of my life – as a child, a Team Canada athlete, a working professional, and in life beyond the courts. Working with such dedicated staff and volunteers has been inspiring, and I’m thankful to Jamie Nicholls for his mentorship and trust. While this chapter is coming to a close, my support for Canadian squash remains as strong as ever, and I’m excited to see where the sport continues to go,” said Cornett.
Squash Canada extends its sincere thanks to Samantha Cornett for her leadership, dedication, and ongoing commitment to the growth of squash in Canada, and looks forward to crossing paths again.
