Boys Squash (1–0) opened its season in resounding fashion as they dominated Belmont Hill, completing a full sweep as the team did not drop a single match. New recruits and strong preseason preparation bolstered the team as it looks to rise in the national rankings, in which the team currently sits at #5.
JJ Luo ’28 described how the team treated the first match like any other. A combination of good training and standout performances from new Juniors Kevin Wu ’29 and Wesley Pham ’29 propelled the team to victory.
“We lost two pretty good recruits, but we actually had two great additions in Kevin and Wesley. They both played this match and did very well, especially considering that it’s their first high school squash match. They both won their games 3-0,” said Luo.
Jonathan Xu ’28 elaborated on the team’s mentality in this game. Even though the team did not win last year, it had the confidence to attack Belmont Hill.
“To be honest, there wasn’t really a turning point for us. We were just getting straight into it. We were winning 3–0 every match and there weren’t too many obstacles or problems. We played a straightforward match,” said Xu.
Playing at the #1 spot for the first time this season, JJ Luo ’28 quickly adapted to the pressure and won his match 3-0 against a familiar foe. His performance was one of many standouts on the day.
“I was able to get it done. I played this kid multiple times, even last year too. I played against him at the New Englands last year. It was a really tough battle. I won in 5 though. And I thought, ‘I want to make it better today,’ so I was able to pull through with a 3-0 win,” said Luo.
Pham, who is new to the team, described the preseason workouts and how effective they were. With a young core, the team looks to go far this season.
“Before the season, not all of us played year-round, so in terms of fitness, we were a little behind. For the first couple weeks of the season, we primarily worked on getting our fitness up. We did track sessions and a lot of running. It was pretty brutal. I think it paid off. We’re younger than last year. We have more upside. All of us are pretty eager to play and improve. It’s really good,” said Pham.
After an inspiring opening, the team looks to build on this win and maintain their ranking. Xu described the effect the win had on the team as the team prepares for a nationally ranked matchup against Deerfield this upcoming Saturday.
“We have a big match coming up this Saturday against Deerfield. I think this is a good confidence booster for our team and I’m sure we’ll do really well against Deerfield,” said Xu.
Boys Squash plays Deerfield at home on Saturday at 3:45.
