Originally from New Zealand, Sam relocated to British Columbia in 2019 and has since settled down to enjoy the West Coast life recently becoming a Canadian Citizen. Having been heavily involved in squash organization and volunteerism back in New Zealand, Sam was employed as the Squash Director for Squash New Zealand from 2015-17 where he oversaw several committees including Referees, Grading List, High Performance and the master’s Committees. Sam was also responsible for the execution of 18 national and international annually, as well as being involved in the organization and execution of the 2017 World Masters Games Squash Event and 2017 World Junior Squash Championships. From 2012-15, Sam was involved in the Cambridge Racquets Club most notably as their Squash Chairperson from 2013-2015 where he sat on the Clubs management committee, overseeing club operations and strategic direction as well as all squash operations. Sam has been an active Board Member of Squash BC from 2021-2024 assisting in numerous areas including the development of the new strategic plan, and revamp of the Awards and Recognition program.
In Sam’s professional career Sam held the position of Senior Officer, Fundraising Events with VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation from 2019-2021 where he oversaw their signature events raising over $4 Million annually, as well as being responsible for corporate partnerships and supporting the strategic direction of events. Sam transitioned back into the sports sector from 2021-2024 working for BC Rugby as their Director of Community Rugby. Responsible for the oversight of events, competitions, club development, growth of the community game and fundraising Sam has further entrenched his experience of sport, and particularly the Canadian Sport system, having a strong understanding of the long-term athlete development model. Sam also assisted in the development of the new strategic plan and was responsible for ensuring his team met all deliverables and financial responsibilities, exceeding their targets year on year.
Sam is currently employed with Make-A-Wish Canada where he is the Manager, Development for the BC & Yukon Chapter. In this role Sam is responsible for executing all first party events, managing corporate partnerships and working with various partners through third party and signature events. This role allows Sam to raise necessary funds to grant wishes for those children with critical illness.
Sam is excited to contribute to Squash Canada in this board role.