The Guyana Squash Association (GSA) once again proved its formidable standing in national sport, capturing three major honors at the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) 2024 Sport Awards.
The achievement cemented squash’s reputation as one of Guyana’s most consistently successful disciplines, both regionally and internationally.
Leading the victorious charge was Nicolette Fernandes, who claimed the prestigious Senior Sportswoman-of-the-Year title after another outstanding season capped by her second World Masters crown. The GSA’s dominance was further underscored as the Senior National Squash Team earned the coveted Team of the Year award, while national standout Ashley Khalil finished as runner-up for the top female individual honor.
Fernandes’ brilliance and longevity shine bright
A former world No. 19, Fernandes showcased enduring excellence on the global stage with a flawless campaign at the World Squash Federation Masters Tournament in the Netherlands, where she captured gold in the Women’s Over-40 division.
This latest triumph followed her earlier success in the Women’s Over-35 category, making her a multiple World Masters champion and reaffirming her place among the sport’s most accomplished veterans.
GSA President David Fernandes lauded her sustained dominance, describing her achievements as “unbelievable,” while noting her profound influence beyond competition.
In addition to her athletic feats, Fernandes’ leadership extended off the court: she was appointed Chair of the Women in Sport Commission by the Guyana Olympic Association and has played a pivotal role in mentoring emerging players through the GSA’s developmental programs.
Her combined impact—as a world-class competitor and a driving force in sports administration—made her a thoroughly deserving choice for the 2024 Senior Sportswoman-of-the-Year title.
Team Guyana’s golden year on home soil
The Guyana Senior National Squash Team delivered one of the most dominant collective performances in Caribbean sporting history, earning Team of the Year honors following their historic sweep at the 2024 Senior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships.
Playing in front of home fans, Team Guyana captured gold medals in every single team category, including both men’s and women’s divisions, defeating longtime rivals Barbados in the finals.
The achievement marked their fourth consecutive championship and seventh overall since the tournament’s inception in 1977, solidifying their reputation as the undisputed powerhouse of Caribbean squash.
The campaign, hailed as one of the defining moments of Guyana’s 2024 sporting calendar, reflected a rare blend of unity, consistency, and technical mastery.
Khalil continues to fly the flag
Adding further distinction to the GSA’s remarkable year, Ashley Khalil, a former Caribbean individual champion, finished as runner-up for the Senior Sportswoman-of-the-Year award.
Khalil’s 2024 season was marked by domestic and regional triumphs, including victory at the ENet Senior National Championships and a third consecutive female doubles title at the Caribbean Championships, alongside partner Ashley DeGroot.
Her performances not only underscored the depth of Guyana’s squash talent but also reaffirmed the nation’s position at the pinnacle of the regional game.
A legacy of excellence
The GSA’s triple success at the NSC Awards stands as a testament to its long-term vision, disciplined structure, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. From Fernandes’ global achievements to the senior team’s unmatched consistency, Guyana’s squash program continues to set a gold standard in regional sport—proving that greatness, in this discipline, is no coincidence.
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