Collegiate squash is experiencing a wave of new leadership as three institutions—Chatham University, Bates College, and Vassar College—introduce new head coaches to lead their men’s and women’s programs. Yuri Franca, Nadiia Usenko, and Nku Patrick each bring unique backgrounds and a forward-thinking approach, signaling a fresh chapter for their respective teams.
Yuri Franca Joins Chatham University
Chatham University has appointed Yuri Franca as the new head coach for both its men’s and women’s squash teams. Franca arrives with a strong coaching résumé, having most recently served as Assistant Coach at Amherst College. During his time there, the men’s team reached a national ranking of #17, while the women’s team secured a runner-up finish in the Kurtz Cup and concluded the season ranked #14. Amherst’s coaching staff also earned recognition as the NESCAC Coaching Staff of the Year.
Franca’s career includes leadership roles in both Brazil and the United States, where he worked with competitive clubs and youth development programs. His global coaching experience, combined with recent collegiate success, positions him to build a competitive and resilient program at Chatham.
Nadiia Usenko Takes Over at Bates College
Bates College has named Nadiia Usenko as the head coach for its men’s and women’s squash teams. A standout former player with international experience, Usenko previously served as Assistant Coach at Amherst College, contributing to the program’s athletic and academic achievements.
Her playing career is equally distinguished. A Trinity College graduate and team captain, Usenko earned multiple national titles in Ukraine and reached a career-high world ranking of #76 on the Professional Squash Association tour. She brings a well-rounded perspective to coaching, shaped by her competitive background and ongoing academic work in exercise and sport studies.
At Bates, Usenko will focus on developing a program that blends athletic excellence with the college’s broader educational values, aiming to foster a culture of growth, inclusion, and high performance.
Nku Patrick Leads Vassar’s Reimagined Squash Program
Vassar College has tapped Nku Patrick as the inaugural Betty Richey Head Coach for Men’s and Women’s Squash. His appointment marks a significant step in reestablishing squash as a varsity sport at the college. A two-time national team champion during his playing days at Trinity College, Patrick brings both elite playing credentials and deep coaching experience.
Before joining Vassar, Patrick led Northeastern University’s club squash teams and held a key role at SquashBusters Boston, where he helped expand access to the sport and mentored student-athletes across multiple levels. His background also includes coaching stints with PPS Squash and involvement with U.S. national competitions.
Patrick’s vision for Vassar centers on building a program rooted in inclusivity, discipline, and long-term competitiveness. His leadership is expected to lay a strong foundation as the college works to return to the national squash stage.
Together, Franca, Usenko, and Patrick represent a new generation of collegiate squash coaching—experienced, globally informed, and committed to both athletic and personal development. Their arrival signals renewed ambition for their programs and fresh energy within the broader squash community.
