Squash Rocks pairs squash with academic support, mentorship, and life skills. Program director Russ Sterling meets kids where they are and sticks with them year-round, season after season, helping them grow into confident athletes, students, and leaders.
"Squash Rocks was huge for me. Russ showed us how squash was just like life. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes you get beat really bad. But you never quit and you always work hard."
"I got to experience Woodberry Squash Camp and professional matches because of Squash Rocks. We never had to worry, for anything. To this day Russ is still a call away."
"Volunteering with Russ at Squash Rocks has been a phenomenal experience. Over time I've gotten to know the kids' personalities, interests, and unsurprisingly high energy levels. Each session is something I genuinely look forward to."
"It's been rewarding to be a part of their lives and to feel like I'm contributing in my own small but meaningful way."
Weekly coaching sessions teach the fundamentals of squash. Kids develop discipline, focus, and the kind of resilience only sport can teach.
Sessions often pair court time with academic check-ins and homework support, reinforcing what kids are doing at school and reminding them that effort off the court counts too.
Many sessions wrap with a shared meal. For some kids, that's the most reliable dinner of the week, a chance to refuel, talk, and decompress together as a team.
Mentorship from volunteer coaches and Richmond squash players. Social events and lasting relationships that extend well beyond the court.
Squash Rocks partners with the Anna Julia Cooper School in Richmond's East End, a tuition-free independent school that has anchored the program since day one.
"Squash, of course, is the means and the vehicle, but the heart of it is the relationships Russ creates, loving and caring for them week after month after year. I'd like to have 100 partners like Russ and Squash Rocks."
Michael Maruca Head of School, Anna Julia Cooper School
Three ways to keep the program going.
Equipment, transportation, court time, snacks, tournament fees. Every dollar goes directly to the kids.
Give NowCoach a session. Drive to a tournament. Help with homework. No squash background required to make a difference.
Sign UpBusiness or club sponsorships fund tournament travel, kit, and program expansion. Recognition included.
Get in TouchWant to volunteer, sponsor, or learn more about Squash Rocks? Send us a note.
Or email us directly at info@vasquash.com