University of Rochester Squash Head Coach Mario Yanez Tapia has announced he is stepping away from his coaching position at the University in order to return to his home country of Mexico. Yanez's last day will be August 30.
 
Assistant Coach Matt Dukarm has been appointed as interim Head Coach as the team prepares for the 2023-24 season.
 
"Heartfelt thanks to George VanderZwaag and Martin Heath for giving me the chance to be a part of this phenomenal institution. From player to head coach, these past 10 years have been an incredible journey. I have found a second home in Rochester, met the most amazing people, and created memories that will stick with me forever. Though I leave with a heavy heart, I carry with me the positivity and lessons this place has gifted me. Thank you for everything!"
 
Yanez Tapia served as head coach over the pasts two seasons and led the Yellowjackets to a pair of top-15 finishes in the College Squash Association (CSA). He coached two players to CSA All-America honors in 2022-23 and was a two-time Liberty League Coach of the Year after guiding Rochester to back-to-back Liberty League conference titles.
 
Yanez Tapia also had a standout playing career with Rochester, ranking first in team history with 70 match wins and an .824 winning percentage. He was a four-time First Team All-American.
 
"Mario has been an important part of our program for a decade, as both a player and a coach," said Executive Director of Athletics George VanderZwaag. "We will miss him, but he will forever be part of our family and we wish him all the best as he takes the next steps in his life."
 
Dukarm recently earned his master's degree in Business Analytics from Rochester's Simon School of Business in 2023 and played collegiately at Franklin & Marshall during his undergraduate years where he studied Economics.
 
The Buffalo, New York native has had prior coaching experience in the sport, serving as Squash Coach and Counselor at the Buffalo Tennis and Squash Club, Squash and Fitness Coach at 716 Squash and as an Assistant Squash Coach at Canisius High School.