Born and raised in Victoria, British Columbia, Nicole Bunyan has become a household name in the world of squash, both provincially and nationally. As BC’s top-ranked professional women’s squash player, Nicole currently competes in the PSA Circuit and represents Canada as part of Squash Canada’s Senior Squad.

Athlete Spotlight: Nicole Bunyan

Nicole’s outstanding performances over the past few years earned her the prestigious Ernie Rogers Bowl, awarded for the best record in national and international competition. Named in honour of Ernest Rogers and his contributions to the sport, this award reflects Nicole’s dedication, skills, and unwavering determination on the squash court.

Nicole’s career-high PSA world ranking of #39 and her current standing at #52 are huge milestones for BC’s squash history. These achievements highlight her commitment to excellence and set new benchmarks for future generations of players in the province. A few of Nicole’s recent triumphs include: 

  • Gold medalist, 2024 Pan American Squash Championship Individual Event
  • Gold medalist, 2024 Pan American Squash Championship Team Event
  • Silver medalist, 2024 Canadian Squash Championship
  • Silver medalist, 2023 Pan American Games Mixed Doubles
  • Silver medalist, 2023 Pan American Games Team Event
  • Silver medalist, 2023 Pan American Squash Championship Team Event
  • Silver medalist, 2023 Canadian Squash Championship
  • Team Canada, 2022 WSF Women’s World Team Championship
  • Silver medalist, 2022 Canadian Squash Championships in Vancouver, BC Women’s Open

Beyond her achievements on the court, Nicole is a passionate advocate for fitness and wellness. She is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, a Precision Nutrition Coach, and the founder of her own squash programming and coaching business, Squashletic. Through Squashletic, Nicole blends her expertise in squash and fitness to offer comprehensive training programs for athletes of all levels.

We did a spotlight Q&A with Nicole, to congratulate her on her amazing accomplishments!

Q&A with Nicole

Squash BC: What does receiving the Ernie Rogers Bowl mean to you personally?

Nicole: A lot of work goes in behind the scenes as a professional athlete, so it’s an honour to be recognized for the achievements (which can be few and far between!). 

Squash BC: Is there a particular match, tournament, or opponent that stands out to you?

Nicole: At Tournament of Champions 2024 I beat fellow Canadian, Hollie Naughton (HWR 16) in 3 games, and was definitely the best squash I have ever produced in competition. It’s not often that everything fires at the same time, but on that day, I could do no wrong! 

Squash BC: Who have been the biggest influences or mentors in your squash career, and how have they shaped you as a player and person?

Nicole: I have had many! Stuart Dixon, for giving me the best introduction to squash I could have possibly had, and letting me have fun with it. Mike Johnson, for instilling the importance of discipline and fitness into my game. Ken Moselle (cycling/fitness mentor), with whom I did many bike sessions with, and was a constant source of support and guidance throughout my junior and college years. John Musto- who convinced me to give pro squash a shot, and guided me through my initial years on tour. Rod Martin- for teaching me about technique and tactical structure. Graeme Williams- for being the most positive and selfless coach, who has helped me through numerous down periods and worked with me to reframe tactics. 

Squash BC: Squash in BC continues to grow, and your achievements are inspiring players of all ages. What advice would you give to young athletes looking to pursue squash professionally?

Nicole: That it’s really about becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. Although there are rankings, constantly comparing yourself to a number will rob you of the small improvements you make on a daily or weekly basis. These improvements can take years, so if you are starting behind or have a slow start, don’t despair or give up. Surround yourself with a good team who will support you but also tell you what you need to hear.  

Squash BC: Now that you’ve achieved so much, what are your goals for the future? Are there particular tournaments or milestones you have your sights set on?

Nicole: I have so much more I want to achieve! I’d like to win a national championship, compete in the olympics, and make it into the Top 20 in the world. 

2025 Women in Sport Conference set for the Richardson Wealth PSA Weekend

At the 2024 Women in Squash Conference, Nicole shared her inspiring journey during a fireside chat with Tasha Doucas, Squash BC’s Past President. She recounted her evolution from a Team BC Junior to a professional athlete on the PSA Tour. Nicole provided invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of her career, offering a glimpse into the life of a professional squash player. She also discussed the entrepreneurial side of her journey, emphasizing the importance of marketing herself as both an athlete and business owner.

Squash BC will be delivering the third-annual Women in Sport Conference alongside the Richardson Wealth Women’s PSA Open at the Vancouver Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club once again! This year, we are expanding our focus beyond squash, evolving from a Women in Squash Conference to a Women in Sport Conference, to engage and support a broader community of women in sport. All conference sessions will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

We are thrilled to share that the 2025 Women in Sport Conference will feature speakers just as inspiring as Nicole, panel discussions, and interactive workshops! Stay tuned for more details about this exciting event!