Captains of the Week: Gigi Lannon, Lucy Lukens, and Esme Shields
Gigi Lannon, Esme Shields, and Lucy Lukens left to right) smile for a photo Courtesy of Austin Desisto
By ANNA BYUN and NAOMI MOSKOVICH
The girls’ varsity squash team, which comprises 27 players, has enjoyed several victories this season. Captains Gigi Lannon, Lucy Lukens, and Esme Shields’ commitment to the sport and team are attributed to this success alongside coaches Lovey Oliff and Mercy Carbonell. The team takes pride in their close dynamic and significant effort from each member.
When asked to describe her captains, lower Alva Carlston shared that they “always bring a positive energy and attitude to the court, even after a tough loss. Their commitment to improving their squash technique motivates me to work hard each day and witnessing their dedication inspires all of us on the team.”
Reflecting on the contributions of her captains to the team, upper Paloma Sze agreed. “The three captains work well together to create a great team dynamic. All of the captains help in a number of ways, but specifically, Esme and Gigi bring spirit and energy to the team, while Lucy helps demonstrate important technical skills.”
When asked to describe the captains’ personalities, lower Whitney Pickett described all three of them as extremely supportive and full of positive energy. “Esme Shields is the sweetest person I know and is always my biggest supporter. I never feel judged if I hit a bad shot in a match when she’s watching me––I only feel supported.”
“Lucy is a player that myself and every other member of the team can look up to. She shows up to practice each day with such commitment to helping everyone on the team,” Pickett added.
Senior Gigi Lannon began her journey on the squash team last year. She was on the third team and is now the captain of the junior varsity team. As captains, they all take on different roles as leaders. Gigi explained that her role consists of “being silly and focused, and by varying whether I’m intense or laughing.” Many underclassmen look up to Gigi for encouragement, appreciation, support, and an example to follow.
Pickett shared how Gigi is known as the ‘cheerleader’ of the team and is always so energetic and supportive. “I was pretty upset about something one day, so I talked to Gigi outside of practice one day and afterward, I felt so much better about myself. She’s a person who is always there for you,” she said give 100% of your effort. Her words have followed me throughout squash and other endeavors, and I always live by that - especially during matches and practice because what you get from matches is always from the work you put in from practices.” Carlston described her leadership style to focus more on the athlete side and to try to keep all of the players on their toes. The squash team is about halfway through their season and are pumped for E/a. The captains have been helping them with not only their shots, but their spirit. The squash team would not be complete without the three captains: Gigi, Lucy and Esme.
