Jamie Nicholls (second from right) pictured here with the Squash Ontario Board and Staff in 2018. From left to right: Lynsey Yates, Stephanie Baizin, Gordon Campbell, Kathy Cowper, Nicole Garon, Janice Lardner, Jamie Nicholls, Bruce Marrison, and Lauren Sachvie.
It is with mixed emotions that we announce Jamie Nicholls, Squash Ontario’s Executive Director since 2015, will be leaving Squash Ontario to take on a new role as Squash Canada’s Director of Athlete Development.
Under Jamie’s enthusiastic leadership, Squash Ontario has seen so much momentum for increased squash activity at all levels. Jamie’s vision and passion to grow squash has influenced many programs and supporting partnerships over the years and anyone who has crossed paths with Jamie will agree that he always leaves us motivated and ready for more action in his wake.
“In the 5 years that Jamie Nicholls has been Executive Director of Squash Ontario we have seen tremendous progress on all key strategies” mentions Squash Ontario President Bob Mansbridge. “His leadership, energy and focus has contributed significantly to Squash in Ontario growth, and to building momentum in key programs at high school, university and regional levels. Most of all we will miss his presence, as he has a unique blend of business and squash know-how together with a warm personality. Coaches and clubs have benefited from him and his team (hand-picked by Jamie) building the value add that Squash Ontario now offers. We look forward to building on his legacy.”
While we are sad to see him go, he won’t be going far. As the new Director of Athlete Development at Squash Canada, Jamie will no doubt bring his enthusiasm and vision for the growth of squash across the country. We will certainly see Jamie around squash clubs and tournaments in his new role, and maybe the odd guest appearance on court if he wants to add to his provincial championship trophy cabinet! Squash Canada is lucky to have Jamie on board.
As Jamie transitions to Squash Canada, the existing Squash Ontario staff of Lynsey Yates and Lauren Sachvie will move forward as Interim Executive Director and Programs Manager, respectively. The Executive Director opportunity will be released mid-October. Lynsey and Lauren, along with a revamped board of directors and Jamie's transitional involvement understand and accept the challenges that lie ahead and are committed to support the squash community through this difficult time with an end goal of coming out better and stronger as a sport community.
Please join the Squash Ontario Board and staff in congratulating Jamie on his new role and Squash Canada!