For many decades, Dick Pound has been a fierce advocate for the inclusion of squash in multisport games, in particular the Olympics, and has invested a lifetime to the sport. In 2005, Time Magazine featured him as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World”, and his opinions have been cited in multiple media articles quoting his vison for the game. In 2014, Reuters News Agency quoted Mr. Pound saying, “I cannot help thinking, as a member of the International Olympic Committee, that squash should be in the Olympic Games. I cannot think of a better example of fitness, skill, strategy, and fair play than squash.” Again in 2021, from the Around The Rings article, when asked, “Is there any sport which is not part of the Olympics you would like to see as part of the program?” Dick’s response: Squash!
In May 2022, the longest-serving IOC member Dick Pound reached the membership age limit of 80, but was unanimously elected an Honorary IOC Member. During his 44-year tenure, Dick was Vice President from 1987-91, and again from 1996-2000. Additionally, Mr. Pound, always a staunch champion for fair sport, was the founding President of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) from 1999-2007.
Dick’s personal passion for squash dates to 1966 as a member of the McGill Squash Team when the McGill Mens Team won the Intercollegiate Squash Championships. He was Chancellor of McGill University from 1999-2009 and has been a member of the Jesters Club since 1969. Dick played for Canada in five Lapham Grant matches and was the Honorary Chair of the 2014 World Women’s Team Squash Championships, held at White Oaks Resort in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON.