Above, (l-r): CeCe Williams, Kimbley Lightner, Kim Clearkin, Olivia Taylor, Linda Elriani, Catherine Brady, Melinda Berkman, Monisha Das.
Not pictured: Sakora Miller, Brigita Roemer

International Women’s Day, a global movement celebrating women’s achievements, raise awareness of discrimination and uplift women across all industries, is celebrated each year on March 8. Women play important roles in the world of squash, both on and off the court. This International Women’s Day, US Squash continues to highlight the influential and passionate women behind US Squash.

The Women of US Squash
Melinda Berkman, Chief Financial Officer
Catherine Brady, Annual Giving & Communications Manager
Dr. Kim Clearkin, Chief Programs Officer
Monisha Das, Senior Manager of Junior Accredited Tournament Support
Linda Elriani, Senior Director of Professional Development and Programming
Kimbley Lightner, Assistant General Manager
Sakora Miller, Director of Community Squash Programming
Brigita Roemer, Strength & Conditioning Coach
Olivia Taylor, Squash Professional
CeCe Williams, Facility Operations Manager

Melinda Berkman
Chief Financial Officer

Melinda joined US Squash in November 2021 and is responsible for all areas related to finance and administration. Prior to working at US Squash, Melinda was the Interim CFO at United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. Prior to that, she was CFO at Broad Street Ministry and Vice President, Corporate Accounts at Managers Investment Group.

Melinda holds both a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and a Master of Science in Resource Economics from The University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Can you tell us about your journey in sports?
Although I didn’t come from a traditional sports background, the transition to this industry has been incredibly fun and rewarding. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that constantly pushes the boundaries of the sport while creating an inclusive environment for all. Since joining the US Squash team, I have learned to play squash and enjoy playing in a league.

How did you first get involved with squash?
I was recruited for the position of CFO. During the interview process, I learned what a special place US Squash is and am glad I joined the organization!

How long have you been with US Squash?
I have been the CFO at US Squash for three years and three months. I love working for US Squash because it’s a dynamic organization that thrives on collaboration and passion for the sport. Over the course of my time here, it’s been exciting to witness the growth of the sport, especially with the addition of squash to the Olympics.

What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to pursue a career in sports?
I would let them know that it is worth it! I truly believe that girls and women should pursue careers in sports organizations because we bring unique perspectives and leadership to the table. The world of sports offers endless possibilities, and it’s vital to have diverse voices driving progress and innovation. Behind the scenes and off the court, there are so many opportunities to contribute, from event planning and community outreach to marketing and operations.

Catherine Brady
Annual Giving & Communications Manager

Catherine joined US Squash as Annual Giving & Communications Manager in August 2024. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication and global studies concentrating in global media, arts and culture and minor in French from Drexel University. Prior to joining US Squash, she worked in the corporate communications field.

Can you tell us about your journey in sports?
Growing up, I was more involved in the arts than in sports. I played basketball for a few years but have always related more to being a sports fan than an athlete. The energy and passion of being a sports fan, especially actively on-site, is palpable. Rooting for your favorite player, or favorite team, is such a unifier and is something I love about working in sports now.

When I came to college, I joined the school paper, placed first as a sportswriter where I covered squash. Although I eventually transitioned to arts and entertainment coverage, that was my first taste of squash.

How long have you been with US Squash?
I joined the US Squash team in late August 2024. I’m learning a lot and developing a deep appreciation of squash for sure!

What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to pursue a career in sports?
There are truly so many facets of sport as an industry besides just being an athlete, coach or trainer, all of which are incredibly valuable and help to uplift the sport. I would encourage any young person interested in sports as a career to explore who they are off of the court as well; how can those strengths propel you into a career? You belong in the room because you are driven, passionate and qualified and try not to let imposter syndrome hold you back.

What do you envision for the future of women in sports, and what role do you hope to play in that future?
I think it’s an exciting time to be a woman in sports and being a part of changes in the industry as a whole. In recent years, it feels like women’s sports are getting more (well-deserved) attention and I only hope that continues to grow.

I would love to see equality and involvement for all women across all sports and hope that by being a vocal advocate, I can help encourage change. Highlighting new stories of growth and inclusion is one of my favorite parts of my job.

 

Kim Clearkin
Chief Programs Officer

Kim joined US Squash in July 2015 as Director of Events and as Chief Program Officer is now responsible for managing all National Events, national Programs, Certifications and the Arlen Specter US Squash Center. Kim started her professional life as a Management Consultant transitioning to squash after having children. Prior to joining US Squash Kim was the Director of Squash at Bay Club San Francisco for five years and prior to that at Bay Club Redwood Shores. While in California Kim served on the Board of NorCal Squash and was a US Squash Regional coach, helping to grow West Coast junior squash to where it is today. Kim started playing squash at Oxford University, where she captained the team and earned her Blue (and her PhD in Physics). Kim won the 2010 Women’s 45+ national title.

Can you tell us about your journey in sports?
I have always loved playing sports. I remember eagerly waiting for my dad to come home from work so my brother and I could play football and cricket with him in the back garden. I played in all the sports teams at school: badminton, netball, tennis, rounders and (field) hockey and reached a high level in badminton and tennis before going to university. I recently caught up with my best friend from university and she said she wasn’t surprised I am now working in sports. She remembers me saying to her that was my dream job – and here we are!

How did you first get involved with squash?
It was at Oxford that I first played squash. As a badminton and tennis player, I picked it up quite quickly and soon represented the university, earning a Blue and captaining the team. When I graduated, I joined a local squash club which was a perfect way for me to make new friends.

How long have you been with US Squash?
I started at US Squash in July 2015 – time flies!

What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to pursue a career in sports?
When I first moved to the US, I worked part-time as a squash coach just really to have something to do while the kids were at school. However, a pivotal moment for me was when at a company meeting the CEO said to all of us that working in sports can be a career or a “real job”. I had not really considered a possibility before, pursuing academics over sport instead. If you have an interest or passion for sports, then pursue it. It isn’t just for the best players or coaches; there are many different ways to engage.

What is your favorite squash memory?
Winning the U.S. 45+ National Championships! In 2010, no one knew who I was, and I entered the Masters in Rhode Island and ended up winning.

What do you envision for the future of women in sports, and what role do you hope to play in that future?
I am not sure I see sports any differently from any other career. There are many areas where men have traditionally dominated but times are changing. One of the most important things is for the boys and men to be brought up in an environment where both girls and boys are given the same advice and education and in such a way that they don’t even think about gender when making decisions.

I am towards the end of my career, and I hope I am the one that makes girls believe they can achieve whatever is their ambition. The phrase “you have to see it to be it” has some truth. I hope I am an example of the one girls see–an example of what they could be.

Olivia Taylor
Specter Center Squash Professional

Can you tell us about your journey in sports?
I’ve always had a strong passion for sports. During my school years, I participated in soccer, netball and field hockey. While my school didn’t offer squash, I dedicated my spare time to playing and competing in events within the Channel Islands. I was Channel Island Champion in every junior age group.

How did you first get involved with squash?
Both of my parents were involved in the sport, and my dad introduced me to it when I was three years old. Since then, he has been not only my coach but also a mentor throughout my player-to-coach journey.

How long have you been with US Squash?
I’ve been with US Squash since November 2024 and I currently serve as one of the two head squash professionals at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center. Even though I’ve only been here for a short period, I already feel warmly welcomed and truly integrated into the team!

What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to pursue a career in sports?
I would encourage young girls to believe in themselves and to pursue their passion for sports and surrounding themselves with supportive people, whether that’s coaches or peers. It’s crucial to stay committed, work hard, embrace both success and failure as learning opportunities and most importantly love/enjoy what you’re doing!

Read more about the women of US Squash here.