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Bermuda’s top squash players have departed for Asunción, Paraguay, to compete in the 2026 Pan American Squash Championships, set to take place from 15–22 August.
With qualification for the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, firmly on the line, the island’s contingent faces a stern test against elite opposition from across the Americas—and the globe.
The tournament features a star-studded field, headlined by world number two and British Open champion Diego Elías, world number ten Amanda Sobhy, and 2026 STARR Bermuda Open champion Miguel Rodríguez.
Reaching the top-11 qualification benchmark required for a spot in Lima represents a massive challenge for Bermuda, who enter the championships as underdogs. However, the squad travels south with high ambitions and no desire simply to make up the numbers.
Micah Franklin, Bermuda’s head of squash and top-ranked male player, praised the team's grit ahead of their departure, though family commitments will prevent him from featuring on the court.
"The team is going there to give it everything," Franklin said. "Fight for every point, give it their all, and leave proud regardless of the outcome.
"After a quick turnaround from the CAC Games, I’m incredibly proud of this bunch and their mental resilience. I sadly won’t be with them due to prior family commitments, but rest assured they are in the best hands with coach Melina Turk, who is also our 2026 Bermuda National Champion. I’ll be cheering them on from the sidelines."
The campaign offers a vital springboard for the island's players to measure themselves against world-class opposition on the international stage while chasing a place at one of the continent's major sporting spectacles.
The Bermuda Squash Association extended its gratitude to the Government Department of Youth and Sport and corporate sponsor Hiscox, whose backing ensured the team's participation in Paraguay.
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