Boys’ Varsity Squash Wins National Division Championship

As a Nor’easter blanketed New England in snow, the Saints were heating up Philadelphia at the U.S. High School Team Squash Championships. After three days of playing teams from across the country, the Boys’ Varsity team squashed the competition, bringing a Division VIII title back to the hilltop.

A common refrain among squash players, including at Canterbury, goes something like this: “Before I came here, I’d never even heard of squash. But as soon as I tried it, I fell in love with the sport.” Clearly, that newfound passion for the game has paid off.

“Our team is relatively new to squash,” says Coach Noah Gichan. “So, going into the season, I focus on helping players improve their form and learn to love the sport.”

Canterbury plays in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council, a highly competitive league, and competition was similarly stiff at nationals. More than 1,700 players from 210 teams faced off across fourteen divisions. In the finals, the Saints were up against The Latin School of Chicago, and victory was never guaranteed.

“There was a moment where we were tied, and it was nerve-racking,” Mr. Gichan recalls. Fortunately, captain Yichen “Justin” Bai ’27 was on the court. “He had an amazing match that went to the fifth set. He was down, but had an amazing comeback and won 12 to 10, which ultimately carried the team to victory.”

The final score was in—5 to 2— and the team rushed the court for a jubilant group hug before a trophy ceremony.

“It was an amazing experience!” agrees captain Lochlan Finnegan ’26. “I really appreciated the work my fellow captains, teammates, and Coach Gichan have put into this season.”

“We went from not winning a single match to winning our division because everyone worked hard together,” captain Julian Bonasera ’26 adds. “One person playing for themselves doesn't get us the win; each person working to win for one another is what gets us the win. And winning the championship felt like pure happiness.”

Congratulations, gentleman!