ABOUT

Burnt Squash is a longtime dream of founder and Hotchkiss Alum, Bobby Burns ‘08. It was founded with a passion for the game and a mission to transform players of all levels into the best versions of themselves. Bobby has coached for over 15 years in New England, seeing many juniors from hitting their first ball to winning their first tournament. He is all in when it comes to providing top-tier coaching, expert guidance, and a vibrant community for squash enthusiasts.

Whether you are looking to refine your technique, boost your competitive edge, or simply discover the joy of squash, Burnt Squash is the perfect place to start your journey. Bobby and his team combine innovative training methods with a focus on sportsmanship, discipline, and a love for the game.

Located at 22 Lime Rock Rd., Hotchkiss is home to 8 all-wood singles courts. The facility is in the Mars Athletic Complex across Route 41 from the school. Instruction and involvement are welcome to all.

— WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE US

Three individuals smiling inside a squash court, wearing branded shirts with the "Burnt Squash" logo, showcasing camaraderie and team spirit.

✓ Tailored Instruction

✓ US Squash Sanctioned

✓ Flexible Scheduling

✓ Structured Programs

✓ Convenient Location

✓ International Footprint

OUR INSTRUCTORS

  • A focused individual holding a squash racket, wearing a navy and white sports shirt, posed against a clean squash court background.

    Shiraz Akbar

    ASSISTANT PRO

    Shiraz joins us from the Washington, DC area, where he was a key coach at the Play Squash Academy. As a player, Shiraz has made a mark on the professional circuit, competing on the PSA World Tour and reaching a career-high ranking of #372 in the world. Before moving to the United States, Shiraz was crowned Junior National Champion in Pakistan, showcasing his high level of skill and dedication to the sport.

    When it comes to coaching, Shiraz emphasizes building a supportive environment that fosters confidence and a love for the game. His addition to our team will immediately enhance our program offerings, allowing us to expand after-school activities and increase the availability of primetime training hours.

    We’re also excited to increase our presence at US Squash tournaments, where Shiraz will play a key role in guiding and supporting our juniors.

  • A smiling individual sitting cross-legged on the floor, wearing a sports jacket and casual attire, with a squash racket leaning against a plain backdrop.

    Bobby Burns

    HEAD PRO

    At both the Heights Casino and the Racquet & Tennis Club, Coach Burns honed his coaching skills, working with players of all levels. As a competitor, he made a strong impact on the SDA Pro Tour, achieving a career-high U.S. ranking of #2 and a world ranking of #17.

    Before turning pro, Coach Burns attended Bates College, where he captained the squash team and earned a B.A. in English. Originally from Greenwich, CT, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the game. Outside of squash, Coach Burns enjoys cooking and hiking with his wife Becky and their pup, Huckleberry.

    With his expertise and enthusiasm, he will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of players.

  • A squash player holding a racket, standing confidently in front of a glass squash court.

    Abdul Malik

    ASSISTANT PRO

    Abdul brings a wealth of experience and talent to Burnt Squash from Cornell University, where he served as the Assistant Squash Coach while completing his Master’s in Accounting and Business Development. Prior to his tenure at Cornell, Abdul established himself as a standout in international squash, rising to the #1 junior ranking in Pakistan and securing Bronze medals in both individual and team competitions at the Asia Games. As a collegiate athlete, Abdul dominated the courts at Chatham University, holding the #1 player spot for all four years in the College Squash Association (CSA).

    His coaching journey has included stints with top-tier programs such as the prestigious K2 in Philadelphia, where he worked with players of all levels, from beginners to elite competitors. Off the court, Abdul enjoys reading, watching movies, and socializing with friends new and old.

    Fun fact: Abdul’s younger brother, Maaz, will be joining IMS as a 7th-grade boarder.

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