Trinity Squash Coach Returns to Court After Heart Procedure

Legendary coach Paul Assaiante led team to 16 consecutive titles before undergoing minimally invasive treatment for atrial fibrillation.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Paul Assaiante, the legendary Trinity College squash coach who led his team to 16 consecutive national titles, has returned to the court after undergoing a minimally invasive cardiac ablation procedure to treat his atrial fibrillation, a dangerous heart rhythm disorder that was leaving him exhausted from simple activities.

Why it matters

Assaiante's successful recovery and return to coaching highlights the advancements in cardiac care that are allowing active individuals to maintain their lifestyles and careers after being diagnosed with conditions like atrial fibrillation. His story also underscores the importance of seeking medical attention for unexplained fatigue, as it can be a warning sign of an underlying heart issue.

The details

Assaiante was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation after experiencing symptoms that left him tired from basic tasks like climbing stairs, even when at rest. Dr. Moulin Choksi, a cardiac electrophysiologist, performed a cardiac ablation procedure on Assaiante, using advanced 3D mapping technology to pinpoint the source of the abnormal heart rhythm and deliver energy to that area to restore normal function. Assaiante recovered quickly, returning home the same day and back in the gym within a week.

  • Assaiante was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation after experiencing symptoms in late 2025.
  • Dr. Choksi performed the cardiac ablation procedure on Assaiante in early 2026.

The players

Paul Assaiante

The legendary Trinity College squash coach who led his team to 16 consecutive national titles before being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.

Dr. Moulin Choksi

A cardiac electrophysiologist at the Hospital of Central Connecticut who performed the minimally invasive cardiac ablation procedure on Assaiante.

Moustafa Hamada

Assaiante's former player who is now the head coach of the Trinity College squash team, with Assaiante serving as the assistant coach.

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What they’re saying

“I would work out all the time, and I could do the workout, but if I walked up one flight of stairs, I was tired.”

— Paul Assaiante, Trinity College Squash Coach (WFSB)

“They're sitting, they're watching TV, they're not being active at all, and their heart rate's fast.”

— Dr. Moulin Choksi, Cardiac Electrophysiologist (WFSB)

“Coach A has always been there for me; he's coached in so many ways, not only on the court but in my life. So, we're lucky to have him on the team.”

— Moustafa Hamada, Trinity College Squash Head Coach (WFSB)

What’s next

Assaiante plans to continue serving as the assistant coach for the Trinity College squash team, supporting head coach Moustafa Hamada and helping to guide the program he built into a national powerhouse.

The takeaway

Assaiante's successful treatment and rapid recovery from atrial fibrillation demonstrates the advancements in cardiac care that are allowing active individuals to maintain their lifestyles and careers after being diagnosed with heart conditions. His story underscores the importance of seeking medical attention for unexplained fatigue, as it can be an early warning sign of an underlying heart issue.