Girls Squash Co-Captain Prisha Shivani ’26 first picked up a squash racquet during COVID, exploring an alternative to tennis. What began as a practical switch quickly turned into passion. Now, as a co-captain, Shivani leads Girls Squash with steady, unwavering commitment to her teammates.
As a leader, Shivani focuses on how teammates respond during strenuous high-pressure matches, paying close attention to their morale and mindset as games wear on.
“Squash is mentally tough, especially when you’re battling through a long match. I try to be a steady presence and provide real support, not just at games, but also at practices. I want to be present and make sure no one feels alone through those moments,” said Shivani.
Shivani also went on to explain how her approach to leadership is shaped by her mindset as a player, emphasizing the importance of staying mentally focused during long matches and carrying that same attentiveness into supporting her teammates.
“I think as a player, I’m strong on the mental side. In matches that go to five games, I’m able to stay present and focused in my own match. I try to bring that into my leadership by putting as much emphasis on other people’s matches as I do on my own. Overall, I try to be a steady presence for the team and be there to help if someone needs it,” said Shivani.
Judy Liu ’29 described Shivani as being a reliable leader, noting how she is always there for her teammates regardless of match results or whether she is able to play that day.
“Prisha is a really active captain and is really dedicated to the team. Even if she is not playing, she shows up to every team brunch. She is always really positive and calm, which can be helpful for big tournaments or competitions. She has played a big part in making my experience on the team so fun, and she makes the team motivated, happy, and tough at the same time,” said Liu.
Liu also mentioned how Shivani and the other captains balance each other out well, pointing to the mix of seniors and a junior and how that combination brings both experience and growth in leadership.
“The captains balance each other out really well. Prisha and Evelyn are seniors, and Minnie is a junior. Minnie is getting into her new role as a Junior, while Prisha and Evelyn have more experience and more time on the team. You can see that they’ll be dedicated to it, that they’re responsible, and that they’re taught to be active,” said Liu.
Selene Xu ’27 highlighted Shivani’s ability to give constant and thoughtful feedback while also noting her approachability off the court, adding that her presence and encouragement help strengthen connections across the team and create a supportive environment.
“She has a very encouraging and funny personality. On top of that, she gives great feedback and communicates with the team and the coaches really well. I really admire her leadership. She gives everyone high fives when they come off the court. She’s like a beam of light in our team. You can talk to her about anything,” said Xu.
Looking ahead, Shivani hopes squash will remain a part of her life after high school, serving as both a way to stay active and a meaningful throughline as she moves into the next stage of her academic and athletic journey.
“I definitely want to continue playing squash. It’s a good way to stay active and also connect with people. So after high school, I’d like to still be on court, or hopefully on a club team in college,” said Shivani.
