The Squash and Education Alliance (SEA) continues to revolutionize the integration of squash and education with its latest initiative: the construction of the SquashBridge Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut. SEA, a non-profit organization known for its successful youth programs that combine squash with academic and life skills support, is taking this ambitious project to new heights by creating a facility that not only elevates the sport but also strengthens the surrounding community.
SquashBridge new Facility: A Vision in Progress
Situated at 1691 Main Street, the SquashBridge facility will open its doors in late 2025, marking a significant milestone for SEA and the city of Bridgeport. Designed by the renowned architecture firm Antinozzi Associates, the 15,000-square-foot building will house eight singles squash courts, three classrooms, offices, and locker rooms. The layout will center around an outdoor courtyard, featuring a basketball hoop, pickleball court, and space for tutoring, group meetings, and community events.
The design emphasizes natural light and a strong connection to the surrounding community. A standout feature of the building is the three-glass wall showcourt, visible from both Route 8 and Main Street, allowing passersby to catch a glimpse of squash in action. Additionally, SquashBridge will be home to the world’s first public open-air steel squash court, inspired by the Maspeth Squash court in Queens, New York, which symbolizes the sport's resurgence in outdoor play.
A Long-Term Vision Becoming Reality
The dream of SquashBridge has been in the making for over eight years, thanks to the unwavering support of a dedicated network of individuals and organizations. The $10 million investment in this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the commitment of SEA and its partners to transforming the lives of young people through squash and education.
SquashBridge is poised to be a key player in Bridgeport’s revitalization, offering much more than just squash courts. It will be a place for mentorship, learning, and community building. Simba, the center's leader, together with an active Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and supporters, will continue to engage the Bridgeport community to bring this vision to life.
Bridging Communities Through Squash and Education
More than just a sports facility, SquashBridge will serve as a comprehensive community center aimed at fostering growth and learning for people of all ages and backgrounds. Its close proximity to local schools such as Columbus Academy, St. Raphael Academy, and St. Augustine Academy positions it as an ideal resource for students, while partnerships with community organizations like the Cardinal Sheehan Center and Wakeman Boys and Girls Club will help embed it into the fabric of the neighborhood.
SquashBridge's primary focus will be on delivering SEA’s signature youth program, which combines academic support, squash training, mentoring, and college access services. With an annual investment volume of approximately $30 million through donations, SEA is able to adopt a "no barriers" approach, allowing the center to offer free and income-based memberships. This makes squash accessible to children from as young as first grade, regardless of their financial background. This approach reflects SEA’s core belief that every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, both academically and athletically.
Get Involved
As SquashBridge prepares for its grand opening in 2025, the organization is inviting individuals, families, and local businesses to join them in supporting this incredible initiative. To learn more about SquashBridge design, visit www.squashbridge.org.
With the SquashBridge Center, SEA is once again demonstrating that squash is more than just a game—it's a powerful tool for community development, education, and positive change.
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