Squash has always been about more than winning matches. At its best, it creates opportunities, strengthens communities, and gives people the chance to discover what they are capable of. That philosophy is reflected in the outstanding work of Lolly Gillen, our Secretary General of PanAm Squash, whose Wheelchair Squash Program in Toronto is changing lives both on and off the court.
“Every athlete deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, challenge, and community that squash provides.”
Based at the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club, Gillen’s program has become one of the most recognized examples of inclusive squash in North America. By providing specialized equipment, structured coaching, and a welcoming environment, the initiative allows athletes with mobility impairments to experience squash in a way that is both competitive and accessible.
Building a more inclusive future
The program goes far beyond introducing new players to the sport. It creates a space where participants develop confidence, improve their physical well-being, and become part of a vibrant squash community. Through the use of sport wheelchairs, adapted training sessions, and experienced coaches, players discover that the court is a place where barriers disappear and possibilities grow.
“Wheelchair squash demonstrates that inclusion is not about changing the sport—it is about opening the sport to everyone.”
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the mission of PanAm Squash, which continues to promote initiatives that expand access to squash across the Americas.
Leadership that extends beyond the court
In addition to serving as Secretary General of PanAm Squash, Lolly Gillen has become one of the leading voices for accessibility within the global squash community.
Her contributions include:
- Founding Canada’s first Wheelchair Squash Program.
- Serving as Chair of the World Squash Squash57 Commission.
- Supporting clubs and national federations with educational resources to establish their own adaptive squash programs.
- Promoting inclusion through coaching, education, and community development.
Her leadership has inspired the creation of additional wheelchair squash initiatives across Ontario, allowing even more athletes to discover the sport.
A vision shared by PanAm Squash
At PanAm Squash, growth is measured not only by medals and rankings, but also by the opportunities created for future generations.
Programs like Gillen’s remind us that the future of squash depends on making the game more accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.
“The true success of our sport is measured by how many lives we are able to impact.”
By investing in adaptive programs and creating environments where every athlete feels welcome, squash continues to evolve into a sport without barriers.
Changing lives, one court at a time
As squash continues to gain momentum around the world—and with the sport preparing for its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028—initiatives focused on inclusion will play an increasingly important role in shaping its future.
PanAm Squash is proud to recognize Lolly Gillen’s remarkable contribution to our sport. Her dedication, leadership, and passion continue to inspire clubs, coaches, athletes, and federations throughout the Americas.
Because sometimes, the most important victory isn’t measured on the scoreboard—it is measured in the lives transformed through sport.
World Squash article: The Court That Changes Lives: Lolly Gillen on Toronto’s Thriving Wheelchair Squash Program