An Elite Champion on the Steel

When we first envisioned the Maspeth Squash outdoor steel court, we knew it would take a special kind of athlete to truly test its limits and embrace its unique energy. Nathan didn't just show up; he became a cornerstone of our community. Thank you, Nathan, for coming out to play in the very first Intsel Steel Pro Invitational and remaining a vital part of every single tournament over the last five years. Your expert feedback on the court’s performance has been invaluable, helping us understand the pure enjoyment and distinct dynamics of outdoor steel play. Beyond the competitive matches, your generosity in hitting with fans, engaging with friends, and championing the entire outdoor squash movement has helped put Maspeth on the map. You didn't just play on our court—you helped us prove what outdoor squash could be, even stepping forward to exhibit and teach the growing game of Squash57 with absolute mastery.

The Intsel Legacy: Five Years of Dominance

Nathan holds a foundational place in our history as the very first PSA World Tour professional to reach out to Maspeth Squash during the early months of the pandemic in 2020, demonstrating a true pioneering spirit to champion and support the future of outdoor squash. Once the tournament officially launched, his legacy on the steel quickly became one of the most dominant and consistent in our history:

• 2021 (Intsel Steel I): Nathan wrote his name into the history books as our inaugural champion. Navigating a massive 64-player mixed draw, he defeated Lyell Fuller in an absolute thriller of a final to claim the permanent trophy and the winner-take-all $5,000 purse. The victory carried a beautiful, deeply personal significance: Nathan used those champion's earnings to help secure the ring to marry fellow PSA pro Haley Mendez—who had herself battled fiercely that same weekend, bowing out in the semifinals of the women's draw.

• 2022–2023: Highlighting his elite world-class status, Nathan returned to the steel holding down the coveted #1 seed for consecutive years, playing with a target on his back as a true crowd favorite and bringing immense fire to the outdoor arena.

• 2024 (Intsel Steel IV): Nathan reclaimed his spot at the absolute pinnacle of the steel court. Fighting his way through a highly competitive draw, he captured his second career Intsel Steel Championship title and another $5,000 top prize.

• 2025 (Intsel Steel V): At our landmark 5-year anniversary tournament—which graduated to a massive $40k total festival format—Nathan once again tore through the field to reach the Grand Final, finishing as the runner- up to fellow two-time champion Timmy Brownell in a spectacular showcase of professional outdoor squash.

Observations From the Maspeth Side

From our perspective behind the glass, watching Nathan adapt to the outdoor elements year after year has been a privilege and a masterclass in elite athleticism. Playing outdoors changes everything—the wind, the shifting temperatures, the unique, true bounce of the steel—yet Nathan adjusted with breathtaking precision, treating our crowds to some of the most spectacular, high-octane rallies the sport has ever seen. But what truly endeared Nathan to the Maspeth community wasn't just his brilliant shot-making; it was his humility. It is a rare thing in professional sports to see a top athlete intensely competitive and completely "buttoned-up" on the court, yet entirely down-to- earth off it—even grabbing a squeegee to help clean our special wood floor before his own matches. He showed us what a true champion looks like, raising the bar for every competitor who steps onto the steel.

The Pros' Pro and Ultimate Gentleman

Beyond the trophies and the stellar performances, what truly elevates Nathan is the profound admiration and respect he commands across the entire squash world. He occupies a vital leadership role on the professional tour, generously sharing his journey and mentoring the next generation of players. Nathan is, in every sense of the phrase, the "pros' pro"—the quintessential gentleman athlete.

In an era where the pressures of top-tier professional sports can compromise sportsmanship, Nathan stands as a beacon of the highest ethics, impeccable manners, intellectual curiosity, and deep respect for everyone around him. His outstanding character shines through in everything he does, whether he is competing at the absolute pinnacle of the PSA tour, training with relentless discipline, or simply chatting with a junior player after a match. He represents the very best of professional sports, and Maspeth Squash is profoundly honored to call him a friend.

Here’s to Nathan Lake

Think different.