After a disappointing 2009 season, Andover Girls Squash got a very early start to its season, as the team faced Milton Academy in a scrimmage before winter break. The scrimmage was the first match of the season for both teams, so the ladder was rearranged to allow everyone on both rosters to play at least 6 games. Though the team lost 48-14, the individual games were evenly matched, as 17 of the games lost were by four points or fewer. The day was highlighted by a couple of spectacular shots by Andover players. Captain Kim Kohn’s ’10 diving drop shot deservingly won her a point in her match. Another remarkable shot was a gorgeous boost by Julia Zorthian ’11 in which her body was fully extended as she reached to drive the ball into the side- wall of the court. Coach Tom Hodgson always tells his players that extension when hitting a shot is crucial, and Zorthian clearly took his advice. The effort put into perfecting the team’s strokes will set the team up for success later in the season. The team will miss the four seniors that graduated this past year, but if it continues to display such diligence throughout practice as they have throughout the first weeks, certainly they will be able to maintain a strong and competitive ladder. The team still has plenty to work on. Coach Hodgson said, “At this point in the season, we are inexperienced, but we have already made progress in adding tools to our toolboxes and raising our squash IQs. We need to reduce our unforced mental and execution errors, add tools, solidify good habits, and commit ourselves to steady improvement over the season.” The team eagerly awaits another fun and vigorous season on the courts. Lauren Kim ’10 said, “Of course I’m excited to start the season. I am especially looking forward to both matches against Exeter, our archrival.” On the first day of practice, Hodgson said, “Practice does not make perfect because it is impossible to be perfect.” After watching the first few days of tryouts, Amanda Howland ’11 said, “I feel like if we keep improving like we have this past week, we will come close.”
