2/06/25 Highlight: Boys’ Varsity Squash
By EMI SOUTHGATE and ARISA YOSHINO
The boys’ varsity squash team delivered an outstanding performance this week, securing two impressive victories — a 7-0 sweep against Brooks and a hard-fought 5-2 win against Nobles and Greenough. With a current record of 5-4, the team continues to demonstrate excellent skill and determination on the court.
The win against Nobles was particularly significant, as they entered the match against a team ranked 11th, three spots above Exeter’s 14th place ranking. Prep Evan Chen reflected on the achievement: “It was a very anticipated win because they were ranked higher than us. The fact that we overcame them with a 5-2 win was very impressive as a team, and I’m very proud of us.”
Matias Yau, a first-year player on the varsity team, further reflected on the team’s strengths and weaknesses compared to last year: “It’s definitely stronger this season. Much stronger. There are some areas we could improve and there are some matches that we should win, but it’s all part of the process and we’re still developing.”
Beyond their performance on the court, the team is tight-knit and always uplifts each other. Chen emphasized their unwavering support for one another: “We definitely support each other and find fun times and through practices. We stay positive and stick through every match.”
Yau echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unity across both the boys’ and girls’ teams: “We have a really good community. Everyone’s really supportive, and I like how the varsity and the JV teams practice together, so they have more community.”
Much of this cohesion stems from the leadership of the coaching staff, whose guidance is central to the team’s success. “In between our matches and in between our games, they’re there and give us the feedback and motivation we need to play our best,” Chen shared. “Driving us from school to school and match to match, they’ve always been there for us and I’m very glad that we have them as our support system.”
As a new student, Yau emphasized the welcoming environment members of the team fostered for him: “The team has been extremely accepting. From the first dinner we had on revisit day to now, the captains have made sure we feel at home.”
When asked about his favorite team tradition, Yau shared a unique motto that unites the team: “Before every match we say ‘Blood and Danger’; it’s an ode to one of our former coaches.”
With their recent victories and a strong team dynamic, the Boy’s Varsity Squash team continues to promise an exciting season ahead.
