Shaping American Squash Fitness: Samir El-Degwi’s Impact

The Quiet Dedication Behind Squash Excellence

NATIONWIDE - AUGUST 2025 - (USAnews.com) — In the world of competitive squash, where physical endurance, mental toughness, and precision are paramount, one name stands out for consistently pushing the boundaries of what athletes can achieve. Samir El-Degwi, a highly respected squash fitness coach, has transformed the sport's landscape, particularly in the United States. His journey began not with a championship racket in hand, but with a drive to make athletes the best versions of themselves on and off the court.

The turning point came when El-Degwi’s unique approach to fitness, combining strength, conditioning, mental resilience, and injury prevention, first caught the attention of elite players. It wasn’t long before he was coaching Tarek Momen to his 2019 World Championship title and developing the potential of future stars like Salma Hany, who reached a career-high World No. 7 ranking. His influence extends beyond titles El-Degwi’s methods are shaping the very fabric of squash in America.

From Startup to World-Class Success

El-Degwi’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. In 2014, his Startup “ Transforma “ was recognized as one of the best seven startups in Egypt, which showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and drive. What began as a passion for fitness gradually evolved into a high-level fitness training career, where El-Degwi honed his skills and understood the nuances of squash.

“I started with the dream of making athletes not just better players, but better individuals mentally, physically, and emotionally,” says El-Degwi. His philosophy was never about just increasing physical strength; it was about building strength of character, too.

His big break came when he began coaching Momen, guiding him through one of the most defining moments in his career securing the 2019 World Championship title. This milestone solidified El-Degwi as a coach capable of fostering world-class talent, and it marked the 

A Game-Changer for the U.S. Squash Fitness Community 

In the competitive world of squash, where speed, endurance, and resilience often separate champions from contenders, the U.S. squash community has long searched for coaches who can deliver more than just drills and workouts. Enter Samir El-Degwi, a world-class squash fitness and performance coach whose arrival in New York has been described as a turning point for the sport in America.

With a proven track record of developing world champions and elite juniors, El-Degwi brings something rare: a holistic, long-term vision for athlete development. His methods integrate strength, conditioning, injury prevention, and mental resilience components that many programs struggle to combine effectively.

From World Champions to America’s Future

Today, El-Degwi is making his mark in New York as part of the Corner Squash Program under supervision of Mostafa Essam The Founder and Ceo of the program, widely recognized as one of the top training hubs in the country. The program recruited him specifically to design and oversee the fitness and conditioning component, a role that few in the U.S. are equipped to fill.

“It’s very hard to find someone who understands the full journey of long-term athlete development in squash,” says Essam. “That’s why our focus is not just on how fast or strong a player is today, but on how to prepare them for a 10- or 15-year career at the top.”

In 2024 and 2025, his junior athletes collected an extraordinary haul of medals at the U.S. Junior Championships, including 18 golds across two years, alongside podium finishes at the U.S. Open Junior Championships. These results highlight not just talent, but the effectiveness of a system designed for sustainable growth.

Building Athletes and People

What makes El-Degwi’s presence so valuable to American squash isn’t just his ability to produce champions. It’s his philosophy: athletes are more than their rankings. His training emphasizes character, resilience, and balance, ensuring that young players develop life skills alongside their sporting achievements.

“The greatest reward for me is seeing my athletes not just lift trophies, but also earn scholarships, grow as individuals, and succeed in whatever path they choose,” he explains.

A Lasting Legacy in U.S. Fitness Squash

Samir El-Degwi’s arrival has been nothing short of transformative. By bridging the gap between elite international coaching methods and the growing demand for high-level player development in America, he has positioned himself as a cornerstone in shaping the future of U.S. squash youth players. 

His legacy is already visible in the medals, in the Ivy League opportunities, and in the confidence of a new generation of American athletes. But for El-Degwi, this is only the beginning.

As he continues his mission at the Croner Squash Program and beyond, one thing is clear: Samir El-Degwi is not just coaching athletes he is reshaping the future of American squash fitness.

Start Your Own Journey to Excellence Today

Are you ready to take your game to the next level? Whether you’re a budding squash player or an experienced athlete looking to elevate your performance, Samir El-Degwi’s unique approach to squash fitness and training can help you achieve your goals. With personalized coaching, a proven track record, and a holistic approach to development, El-Degwi’s methods are your key to success.

Don’t just train harder, train smarter. Learn more about how you can transform your squash game by visiting Samir El-Degwi’s nstagram and explore the difference a top-tier coach can make in your athletic journey.