Westminster Squash Takes National Title

From Patch Reports

Westminster's squash team recently won the U.S. High School Nationals in New Haven, Conn. 

The title marks the first not only for Westminster, but also for all high schools south of Virginia, according to an annoucement from the school. The boys team competed against 13 top teams from around the country, losing only three games in four matches  to win the national title.

“The win provides an opportunity to further grow the squash program at Westminster,” said head coach Rick Byrd. “It validates institutional patience. Ten years may seem like a long period of time, but to go from grassroots to winning a National Title, that is what is impressive.”

Community Coach Tom Rumpler travelled with the team to Yale, sharing his expertise and experience as a three-time national champion with the players. “He is one of the most brilliant teachers I’ve ever met,” said Coach Byrd. “Our program is nowhere without Tom.”

The girls team reached the second round in their first appearance at the High School Nationals, gaining the invaluable experience of playing at Yale’s facilities. Liesel Krueger, high school librarian and JV tennis coach, accompanied the team to New Haven as the girls coach.

Representing the boys team were Garrett Donnelly, Joe Cullen, Henry Harris, Andy Stormont, Will Grady, Kyle Dhillon and Zack Hoffma. The girls team; Courtney Clement, Priya Sinha, Augusta King, Anna B Purcell, Madeline Hill, Margaret Wilson and Anisha Reddy,