The Arjun Gupta Foundation, in partnership with Squash Canada, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Bursary for International Excellence, supporting Canadian junior squash athletes as they pursue international competition and excellence on the world stage.
Each year, the Bursary for International Excellence provides one or more $2,500 awards to Canadian junior athletes aged 13–18 who are committed to high-performance training and have been selected, or show strong potential to be selected, to represent Canada at major international competitions such as the World Junior Championships and Pan American Junior Championships. Of each bursary, $2,000 is allocated toward coaching, training, competition, and related expenses, with $500 directed to the athlete’s designated National Training Centre.
Established in honour of the late Arjun Gupta, the bursary reflects his enduring legacy as an exceptional athlete, mentor, and champion of the squash community. Through the generosity of the Gupta Family, the Foundation continues to invest in the next generation of Canadian squash players, helping remove financial barriers and ensuring athletes can focus on development, performance, and representing Canada internationally.
The impact of the Arjun Gupta Foundation’s support is felt deeply by athletes and families across the country.
“Receiving the AGF Bursary for International Excellence has not only helped make worlds possible for me, but also reminded me of the incredible community backing me,” said Spring Ma (GU19). “I’m so grateful to be part of it. Without it, I couldn’t have represented Canada on the worlds stage and on the podium!”
Parents have emphasized how the bursary helps make international competition achievable and inspires young athletes to continue striving for excellence.
“We are deeply grateful for the Arjun Gupta Foundation’s support,” said Lynn, parent of a bursary recipient. “This bursary helps make it possible for our kids to compete internationally and continue striving toward their goals. Your generosity inspires them to work harder and pursue excellence.”
For many athletes, the bursary represents a defining opportunity in their squash journey.
“I am thrilled and humbled to be receiving this support from the Arjun Gupta Foundation,” said Max Arndt (BU15). “Competing at the U.S Open has been one of the biggest goals for me ever since I started playing squash so the help in achieving this dream they are providing means the world to me. I am deeply grateful to the Gupta family for believing in me and helping me go to this once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Families also highlighted the reassurance that comes from knowing there is meaningful support behind the scenes.
“While the kids put in tons of work on the court, it’s nice to know that there is support out there for them,” said Graham, parent of a junior athlete. “This bursary is greatly appreciated and will help towards competing in tournaments this year!”
“Thank you very much for the squash bursary,” added Nick, another parent. “Your generosity helps ease the financial burden of training and competition and allows continued participation in a sport that has been so important to our family. We truly appreciate your support and belief in young athletes.”
Applications for the 2026 Arjun Gupta Foundation Bursary for International Excellence open on March 15, 2026, and close on May 1, 2026, with selections finalized later in May. Eligible athletes must be members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial squash association, meet Squash Canada competition requirements, and be eligible to represent Canada at World Squash Federation world-titled championships.
The Arjun Gupta Foundation’s continued commitment plays a vital role in strengthening Canada’s high-performance pathway and honouring a legacy defined by excellence, sportsmanship, mentorship, and community.
For full eligibility details and application information, please visit the Selection Criteria > Athlete Funding area on the Squash Canada website here.
