2006
SquashSmarts Welcomes New Board Members
10-23-2006
A warm welcome to Mrs. Jocelyn Jones Arnold and Mr. Aaron Walters III as the newest members of SquashSmarts Board of Directors. eare extremely grateful for their commitment and service to our mission.
Julie Williams Retires
08-30-2006
After five wonderful years with the SquashSmarts organization, Julie Williams has announced her retirement as Director of Academics effective October 2006.
Julie's service to the students began in 2001 and has been nothing short of remarkable. As Executive Director (2002-2004) she shaped the mission and values of our young program at a critical phase in its development. Julie quite literally “pounded the pavement” and forged meaningful partnerships with Drew and McMichael school, with coaches and administrators atDrexel University, with principals, teachers and civic leaders in West Philadelphia, and with parents and families of our promising young students.
Most notably, Julie secured the program’s future in June 2004 by orchestrating a joint venture with Drexel that lead to our current headquarters in the Daskalakis Athletic Center -- all done while single-handedly administering the day-to-day planning, recruitment, fund raising and programming.
Julie set an equally high benchmark as our Academic Director (2004-2006) instilling the love of learning in each of our students. She surrounded herself at every session with a cadre of consistent and caring tutors, oversaw two successful 8th grade graduations, and guided our middle school graduates on to bright and promising high school careers.
Less tangible though equally critical is the overwhelming presence and personality of "Miss Julie". The energy and ethos that Julie brought to work each and every day will be hard to emulate, let alone replace. She will be dearly missed by the students and staff who leaned on her as a role-model and a friend.
Casino Night
10-03-06
On October 4th, 2006, close to 300 members of thePhiladelphia squash community gathered at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia for SquashSmarts’ first ever Casino Night and Squash Challenge featuring PSA pro Jon White.
Multi-faceted celebrities such as Billy Cunningham of the 76ers,John Spagnola of the Eagles, Joe Giles of the Phillies andMike French of the Wings demonstrated their talent on the doubles court, while White dazzled spectators with his impeccable skills on the singles court. White, a former world #1 singles player competed with an eclectic group, including top collegiate athletes and SquashSmarts students in five-point “lightning round” matches. Paul Assaiante, current Trinity coach, who holds the record for longest winning streak in college squash history was the master of ceremonies.
By the time the squash exhibitions concluded, the main hall of the Racquet Club looked and felt like an Atlantic Citycasino; there were eight casino tables where supporters played craps, roulette, black jack, and texas hold’em poker on authentic casino tables for a chance to win fabulous prizes donated by Prince. Everyone seemed to find their niche, whether it was queuing up for a delicious buffet, deciding what to order next from the open bar, playing the “come line” in Craps, or socializing in the spacious reading room.
The night was a success for everyone raising $30,000 for SquashSmarts. It was made possible by the many sponsors including The Graham Company, Cozen O’Connor and Prince Squash.
The Autobiography Project
The autobiography of Philadelphia’s native son Benjamin Franklin is the most widely published autobiography of all time! Now, in honor of Franklin's 300th birthday, the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary and One Book, One Philadelphia (a project of the Mayor's Office and the Free Library of Philadelphia) have invited the SquashSmarts high school team to submit memoirs of their own!
Read SquashSmarts entries!
1. Click Here: The Autobiography Project
2. Search for student entries by Last Name
[SquashSmarts girls = Quinetta Bowden, Tempest Bowden, Rachel Edmonds, Marcedes Kennedy, Amber Thomas, Jasmin Wingate
SquashSmarts boys = Tyreek Davis, Kareem Price]
Students from all over Philly are sharing their stories. The winning pieces will be published in The Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News
and reprinted on bus and subway posters throughout Philadelphia. Special thanks to Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary writer, promoter and volunteer Robin Fradkin for visiting with SquashSmarts and encouraging our students to participate.
Summer Opportunities
2006 EMBRACE SUMMER CAMP
Developed by SqauashSmarts staff, Embrace is America’s first-and-only summer day camp to combine Squash and Fitness instruction with fun, educational Community Service projects! Dates: July 10-15. Ages: 11-15. Levels: Beginner & Intermediate. Space limited to 20 campers. First-come, first-serve.
CampBrochure: http://www.squashsmarts.org/2006EmbraceCampEntryBrochure.pdf
2006 SQUASHSMARTS JUNIOR OPEN
Keep your child’s tournament experiences rolling into the summer at this fun, competitive two-day event. Tournament sanctioned by theUnited States Squash Racquets Association (Silver Level) and counts toward the coming season’s USSRA Junior Rankings (2006-2007). Under 17, 15 and 13 age divisions offered. Tournament is open to the public and will be run Friday & Saturday only, July 14-15.
EntryDetails: http://www.squashsmarts.org/2006SquashSmartsJuniorOpen.pdf
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
For older “kids” (i.e. high school students, college students and adults) SquashSmarts offers practices at Drexel University throughout the summer. Become a squash instructor or academic tutor and reach out to out fine young student-athletes.
SummerSchedule: http://www.squashsmarts.org/ProgramCalendar.pdf
Academic Research Partnership Forged
05-15-2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce a new and visionary project spearheaded by Drexel University's Clinical Psychology doctoral graduate program. The study, lead by graduate candidate Ms. Heather Green, will focus exclusively on two key aspects of the SquashSmarts after school youth program.
Phase I will initiate a meaningful and longitudinal demographic study of our student population dating back to the program's inception and including all teenagers recruited from Drew & McMichael Elementary over the past five years.
Phase II will examine the short and long-term impact of our academic model on each of our young student-athletes.
The project, slated to commence June 2006, will be expertly supervised by SquashSmarts' Board member and tenured Drexel professor Dr. Kirk Heilbrun as well as by SquashSmarts Academic Director Julie Williams. We look forward to updating you as we unearth new answers to the most basic, yet critical, question: "What is best for our kids"
May Writer’s Workshop
05-01-2006
Award-winning poet, journalist, essayist and writing teacher Janet Falon will offer a writer’s workshop for SquashSmarts students each Wednesday during the month of May. Ms. Falon’s work has appeared in numerous publications, including The New York Times, ThePhiladelphia Inquirer and The Boston Globe. Students must complete an application to the program to be considered for the workshop. Samples writings will be available on our website as the workshop progresses!
National Student Athlete Day @ Drexel
04-06-2006
More than a dozen Drexel student-athletes and SquashSmarts children came together to celebrate “National Student Athlete Day”. Drexel soccer, basketball, tennis, cheerleading, lacrosse, wrestling, field hockey and dance team members all shared ideas with our kids on sportsmanship, discussed key values, and debated conflict scenarios in a series of interactive stations.
During team-building exercises, everyone did a little dancing of their own [below]! SquashSmarts kids then taught the Drexel student-athletes about squash, concluding yet another great exchange between SquashSmarts and Drexel University. Special thanks toRebecca Gigli and Kathy O’Brien and the Drexel athletes for a tremendously rewarding day!
Academic Spring Break!
College Visits + Museum Tours + High School Placement + Poetry BBQ
Over Spring Break, 9th and 10th grade students began the daunting yet exciting process of visiting colleges in the Philadelphia area. After researching schools on-line, students visited Arcadia University, Lincoln University and West Chester University, touring campuses, checking out dorms and dining halls and speaking to students. As the kids delve further into their specific interests, future visits will be tailored to the student's specific needs.
During the break, the following 8th grade students learned that they had been accepted and making the leap on to high school!
Michael Baldwin, Saul High School for Agricultural Sciences
Jabria Campbell, High School of the Future
Mithun Das, Parkway West High School
Demonte Harris, Communications Technology High School
Devonte Harris, Communications Technology High School
Sakora Miller, Parkway West High School
Junaid Mukhtar, Science Leadership Academy
Ryan Wheeler, High School of the Future
Spike Lee’s films took center stage for the SquashSmarts kids who toured Philadelphia’s own African American Museum as part of their Spring Break celebration. Exhibits included African American History, a poster exhibit of African Americans in the film industry and various works of art local African American artists.
"Academic Spring Break" ended with students joining Academic Director Julie Williams at her home for a Poetry Slam & BBQ. Great respect and care were shown by all the students in reciting an original poem to cap off an afternoon including basketball, whiffle ball, piano and singing concerts, and a bit of swinging on the swing-set! Among all the good food and sunshine, the listening and appreciation of each other’s poetry proved most special.
Raffle Rally’s Squash Community!
03-24-2006
SquashSmarts would like to thank the entire Philadelphia squash community for its tremendous support of SquashSmarts 3rd annual Benefit Raffle. All told, 44 prizes were awarded and $17,000 was raised during a night of incredible squash (back-to-back five-game PSRA doubles finals!), nail-biting sports (Villanova’s double O.T. win in the NCAA basketball tournament!) and fantastic fun. Your support makes it possible for our 21 students to compete this weekend at the 2006 Urban Team Nationals in Boston. Thank you!
Raffle prizes generously donated by…
THE PIERCE FAMILY, COZEN O'CONNOR, THE ENDE FAMILY, PRINCE SQUASH, TINDER BOX & VINO 100, ZINMAN FURS, THE PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES, THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE, THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER, VIVA VINO IMPORT, EASE UP FITNESS, MARIGOLD RESTAURANT, CHLOE RESTAURANT, AUDREY CLAIRE RESTAURANT,TWENTY MANNING RESTAURANT, ANSILL RESTAURANT, VIGGIANO'S RESTAURANT, FORK RESTAURANT, WESTIN HOTEL PHILADLEPHIA, DREXEL ATHLETICS, THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL PHILADLEPHIA, THE MANN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, THE PHILADELPHIA SOUL ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE, THE TRINITY COLLEGE MEN'S SQUASH TEAM, MARY CROUSE, SHANE COLEMAN, BUCK ROGERS, SCOTT DEVOY, IMRAN KHAN, LOUIS RENZULLI, BRYAN PATTERSON, JOE RUSSELL, MIKE JEFFERYS & STEVE VIRGONA…. THANK YOU!!
Milestone Moment: Reaching the National Stage
03-10-2006
10th-grader and West Philadelphia native Tempest Bowden became the nation’s highest ranked Girls Under 17 African American squash player and the first SquashSmarts student-athlete to qualify for the 2006 United States National Junior Squash Championships (Gold Level).
The tournament, hosted by the USSRA and held at Yale University, showcases the country’s top 32 players in four age categories. After earning a state ranking of #11 through gritty performances at local and regional events, Miss Bowden narrowly clinched one of the few remaining spots in this year’s Girls Under 17 division.
When told by phone of her daughter’s achievement, Arnetta Bowden repeated the news over and over again before finally exclaiming, "My Girl’s Going To A National Championship!!!"
The GU17 draw featured perennial powerhouses Emily Park, Natasha Kingshott, Julie Cerullo and Cece Cortes. Tempest managed to avoid the top four seeds but did draw #5 seed and Philadelphia native Hannah Conant in her first-round match, followed by Philly neighbor Alexandra Glassman in the consolation round.
Conant, who finished the season ranked 7th, and Glassman, who finished 30th, may have ended Tempest’s run but both players were gracious and skilled competitors who, coincidentally, both volunteer with SquashSmarts!! At only 15 years of age, Tempest closed out the season ranked an impressive 39th in the United States.
Accompanying Tempest to New Haven were sister-and-best friend Quinnetta Bowden, a 3-year veteran of the SquashSmarts team, and program director Stephen Gregg.
SquashSmarts sweeps past NYC’s StreetSquash
03-18-2006
The SquashSmarts middle school team, lead by Andrew Hopkins, hosted New York rival StreetSquash in a duel match at the University of Pennsylvania's Ringe Squash Center. SquashSmarts players included Mithun Das, Brittany Kennedy, Michael Baldwin, DevonteHarris, Demonte Harris, Dewon Flythe.
StreetSquash brought tremendous energy and enthusiasm but limited match experience. In the end, the West Philly squad lost only one game in their 10-0 sweep of Harlem’s squash-trotters - an impressive feat considering the SquashSmarts students started playing five months ago. After the match, both teams retired to Drexel University for a fun pizza lunch and a tour of the SquashSmarts facility.
Special thanks Chris Tom and Claire Yunker of StreetSquash and our faithful SquashSmarts fans Chase Lenfest, Dan Marut and Joe Battle.
National Champion… Meet World Champion
02-23-2006
SquashSmarts 10th-grader and Urban National Squash Champion Tempest Bowden traveled to New York City Thursday night to participate in a special exhibition hosted by squash pro and founding SquashSmarts Board Member Ben Desombre at the world famous Princeton Club of New York.
Thanks to Ben’s special invitation, Tempest took advantage of rare opportunities to practice with current World #4 Thierry Lincou and speak with current World #1 Jonathan Power. Both Power (Canada) and Lincou (France) were in town prepping for the PSA’sTournament of Champions, held annually in Grand Central Station’s Vanderbilt Hall.
“I couldn’t believe it when Mr. Power told me he trained twice-a-day, six days a week. That’s just crazy!”
SquashSmarts Squash Director Andrew Hopkins made the journey with Tempest and shared this thought: “It’s not often a young amateur athlete will have a chance to practice with - let alone shake hands and have a laugh with - the number one in the world. Squash has always been really special that way and I’m glad that’s not changing.
On the ride back to Philly, Tempest turned to her coach and asked... “Can I practice twice tomorrow?”…
Drexel Crowns It’s Own Squash Champion
…Meanwhile, back at Drexel that same night, student freshman Auritrio Chaterjee was on his way to earning top student honors in the2006 Drexel Squash Championships.
Jointly organized by SquashSmarts and Drexel University, the 64-draw, single-elimination tournament featured seven SquashSmarts members and over forty Drexel students, faculty and staff making it the most successful Drexel squash event to date!
U.S. Junior Boy’s Team visits SquashSmarts
02-04-2006
U.S. National Coach Christopher Smith and six of his nationally-ranked junior team candidates lead SquashSmarts through a rigorous2-hour fitness and squash training practice Saturday at the University of Pennsylvania.
Coach Smith, who doubles as a full-time staff member at SquashSmarts sister program SquashBusters (Boston. MA) was assisted by US #1 Trevor McGuinness and his teammates Todd Ruth, Todd Harrity, Chris Callis, Chris Thompson and CJ Plimpton. All shared valuable insights into what it means to be a top notch athlete, to compete at the highest level, and to wear the “red, white and blue.”
SquashSmarts + Ben Franklin + ‘We The People!’
02-02-2006
Editors Note: This event received coverage in the “Powelton Post” newspaper of the Powelton Village Civic Association
The collection of artifacts, documents and interactive learning devices immersed our young students in Franklin’s own world, exposing them to his ingenious problem-solving methods and leaving them inspired by his example! Following the exhibit, the theatrical “docu-drama” and “audio-visual tour-de-force” Freedom Rising helped the students re-examine and re-define their role as citizens and their sense of civic responsibility.
The historic morning was capped with a “taste of Philly” as the team explored and dined in Philadelphia’s tastiest cultural exchange…Reading Terminal Market.
Recent Squash Results
01-2006
In their first taste of squash competition outside of Drexel’s courts, SquashSmarts’ newest group of middle school recruits (the Blue Team) battled their nerves and their talented opponents at The Shipley School on Wednesday. Final tally: 11-1 Shipley with SquashSmarts’ Jashan Johnson capturing the group’s first “W”!
In a more evenly balanced and equally hard-fought match held at the Cynwyd Club, SquashSmarts’ middle school veterans (Red Team) took on second-year rival Lower Merion High School. Final score: 6-3 Lower Merion, with SquashSmarts’ Junaid Bin Muhktar, SakoraMiller and Mithun Das achieving impressive victories.
A Special Day at SquashSmarts
01-16-2006
Community Service + Trinity Squash Team = Great Way to Celebrate M.L.K.
Giving back to the community not only feels good, it's part of SquashSmarts' most basic mission. Fourteen SquashSmarts students, lead by Andrew Hopkins, spent the morning making pillows and quilts for West Philadelphia’s nursing homes and shelters while seven teammates got down-and-dirty with Julie Williams painting and sprucing up the West Philly Community Education Center on 34th &Lancaster.
The team then returned to Drexel for a special practice with the 7-time National Champion Trinity Men’s Squash Team. Paul Assaianteand his squad of international and domestic superstars shared their love, knowledge and passion for the game during six action-packed "stations". Special thanks to our volunteers and boosters Joyce Davenport, Molly Pierce, Bob Partridge, David Kanthor, Amanda Cox, Vince & Trevor McGuinness and Dana & Rob Stewardson.
MLK Day Quotes:
“Now will never ever happen again… Take advantage of the amazing moment that is NOW.”
- Paul Assaiante, Trinity Men's Squash Coach & U.S.O.C. Coach of the Year.
Question: “So what makes your Trinity Team so special?”
- Quinetta Bowden, SquashSmarts member and 9th grade student
Answer: "Everything we do is for each other – we work, eat, get along, have fun, win and lose, and play hard together. Trinity does "TEAM" better than anyone else in the country.” – Shaun Johnstone, Trinity College junior and #1 player
“Today was an Awesome experience”
– Dr. Robert A. Partridge MD, Sports Psychologist
New Squash Director Hired
01-05-2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce the addition of Andrew Hopkins as its interim Director of Squash. Andrew joins SquashSmarts after spending five years working for Merrill Lynch in New York City.
Andrew began his collegiate squash career at Franklin & Marshall where he played number nine for a squad ranked as high as 5thnationally. In addition, Andrew was a starter on F&M’s Varsity Lacrosse team. After his freshman year, Andrew transferred to The University of Pennsylvania where he lettered in squash each of his three years, serving as a captain both his junior and senior year.
As SquashSmarts’ Squash Director, Andrew takes great pride and enjoyment in fostering the development of our student’s talents both on the court and in the classroom. A native of Boston, Andrew’s credentials include: the completion of a half-Ironman (June 2005); varsity squash team member and captain at the University of Pennsylvania; Franklin & Marshall varsity lacrosse team member; college guidance mentor for “Minds Matter” serving New York City youth.
“Andrew brings tremendous experience, professionalism and warmth to the program,” comments Director Stephen Gregg. “This is wonderful news for our kids and is the perfect way start to kick a great new year!”
To contact Andrew, or learn more about volunteering with SquashSmarts, please call 215-895-4964 or send Andrew an email atashopkins@gmail.com.
$20,000 Challenge for New Donors
01-01-2006
Matching Grant Provides New Donors With A Great Incentive
Now Through June 30, 2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce an extraordinary matching grant of $20,000 made possible through The H. Chase & Ana Maria Lenfest Foundation. Now through June 30th, every gift made by friends and families who have NOT previously supported SquashSmarts will have their donation matched dollar-for-dollar… up to $20,000. Help is reach our goal!
Matching Challenge Form - Click Here
or
Make Your Donation On-Line - Click Here
Please consider a contribution today to maximize your support and help provide our kids with their very 'best shot' on the court and in the classroom. For more information, please contact SquashSmarts at 215-895-4963 or info@squashsmarts.org.
10-23-2006
A warm welcome to Mrs. Jocelyn Jones Arnold and Mr. Aaron Walters III as the newest members of SquashSmarts Board of Directors. eare extremely grateful for their commitment and service to our mission.
Julie Williams Retires
08-30-2006
After five wonderful years with the SquashSmarts organization, Julie Williams has announced her retirement as Director of Academics effective October 2006.
Julie's service to the students began in 2001 and has been nothing short of remarkable. As Executive Director (2002-2004) she shaped the mission and values of our young program at a critical phase in its development. Julie quite literally “pounded the pavement” and forged meaningful partnerships with Drew and McMichael school, with coaches and administrators atDrexel University, with principals, teachers and civic leaders in West Philadelphia, and with parents and families of our promising young students.
Most notably, Julie secured the program’s future in June 2004 by orchestrating a joint venture with Drexel that lead to our current headquarters in the Daskalakis Athletic Center -- all done while single-handedly administering the day-to-day planning, recruitment, fund raising and programming.
Julie set an equally high benchmark as our Academic Director (2004-2006) instilling the love of learning in each of our students. She surrounded herself at every session with a cadre of consistent and caring tutors, oversaw two successful 8th grade graduations, and guided our middle school graduates on to bright and promising high school careers.
Less tangible though equally critical is the overwhelming presence and personality of "Miss Julie". The energy and ethos that Julie brought to work each and every day will be hard to emulate, let alone replace. She will be dearly missed by the students and staff who leaned on her as a role-model and a friend.
Casino Night
10-03-06
On October 4th, 2006, close to 300 members of thePhiladelphia squash community gathered at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia for SquashSmarts’ first ever Casino Night and Squash Challenge featuring PSA pro Jon White.
Multi-faceted celebrities such as Billy Cunningham of the 76ers,John Spagnola of the Eagles, Joe Giles of the Phillies andMike French of the Wings demonstrated their talent on the doubles court, while White dazzled spectators with his impeccable skills on the singles court. White, a former world #1 singles player competed with an eclectic group, including top collegiate athletes and SquashSmarts students in five-point “lightning round” matches. Paul Assaiante, current Trinity coach, who holds the record for longest winning streak in college squash history was the master of ceremonies.
By the time the squash exhibitions concluded, the main hall of the Racquet Club looked and felt like an Atlantic Citycasino; there were eight casino tables where supporters played craps, roulette, black jack, and texas hold’em poker on authentic casino tables for a chance to win fabulous prizes donated by Prince. Everyone seemed to find their niche, whether it was queuing up for a delicious buffet, deciding what to order next from the open bar, playing the “come line” in Craps, or socializing in the spacious reading room.
The night was a success for everyone raising $30,000 for SquashSmarts. It was made possible by the many sponsors including The Graham Company, Cozen O’Connor and Prince Squash.
The Autobiography Project
The autobiography of Philadelphia’s native son Benjamin Franklin is the most widely published autobiography of all time! Now, in honor of Franklin's 300th birthday, the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary and One Book, One Philadelphia (a project of the Mayor's Office and the Free Library of Philadelphia) have invited the SquashSmarts high school team to submit memoirs of their own!
Read SquashSmarts entries!
1. Click Here: The Autobiography Project
2. Search for student entries by Last Name
[SquashSmarts girls = Quinetta Bowden, Tempest Bowden, Rachel Edmonds, Marcedes Kennedy, Amber Thomas, Jasmin Wingate
SquashSmarts boys = Tyreek Davis, Kareem Price]
Students from all over Philly are sharing their stories. The winning pieces will be published in The Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News
and reprinted on bus and subway posters throughout Philadelphia. Special thanks to Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary writer, promoter and volunteer Robin Fradkin for visiting with SquashSmarts and encouraging our students to participate.
Summer Opportunities
2006 EMBRACE SUMMER CAMP
Developed by SqauashSmarts staff, Embrace is America’s first-and-only summer day camp to combine Squash and Fitness instruction with fun, educational Community Service projects! Dates: July 10-15. Ages: 11-15. Levels: Beginner & Intermediate. Space limited to 20 campers. First-come, first-serve.
CampBrochure: http://www.squashsmarts.org/2006EmbraceCampEntryBrochure.pdf
2006 SQUASHSMARTS JUNIOR OPEN
Keep your child’s tournament experiences rolling into the summer at this fun, competitive two-day event. Tournament sanctioned by theUnited States Squash Racquets Association (Silver Level) and counts toward the coming season’s USSRA Junior Rankings (2006-2007). Under 17, 15 and 13 age divisions offered. Tournament is open to the public and will be run Friday & Saturday only, July 14-15.
EntryDetails: http://www.squashsmarts.org/2006SquashSmartsJuniorOpen.pdf
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
For older “kids” (i.e. high school students, college students and adults) SquashSmarts offers practices at Drexel University throughout the summer. Become a squash instructor or academic tutor and reach out to out fine young student-athletes.
SummerSchedule: http://www.squashsmarts.org/ProgramCalendar.pdf
Academic Research Partnership Forged
05-15-2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce a new and visionary project spearheaded by Drexel University's Clinical Psychology doctoral graduate program. The study, lead by graduate candidate Ms. Heather Green, will focus exclusively on two key aspects of the SquashSmarts after school youth program.
Phase I will initiate a meaningful and longitudinal demographic study of our student population dating back to the program's inception and including all teenagers recruited from Drew & McMichael Elementary over the past five years.
Phase II will examine the short and long-term impact of our academic model on each of our young student-athletes.
The project, slated to commence June 2006, will be expertly supervised by SquashSmarts' Board member and tenured Drexel professor Dr. Kirk Heilbrun as well as by SquashSmarts Academic Director Julie Williams. We look forward to updating you as we unearth new answers to the most basic, yet critical, question: "What is best for our kids"
May Writer’s Workshop
05-01-2006
Award-winning poet, journalist, essayist and writing teacher Janet Falon will offer a writer’s workshop for SquashSmarts students each Wednesday during the month of May. Ms. Falon’s work has appeared in numerous publications, including The New York Times, ThePhiladelphia Inquirer and The Boston Globe. Students must complete an application to the program to be considered for the workshop. Samples writings will be available on our website as the workshop progresses!
National Student Athlete Day @ Drexel
04-06-2006
More than a dozen Drexel student-athletes and SquashSmarts children came together to celebrate “National Student Athlete Day”. Drexel soccer, basketball, tennis, cheerleading, lacrosse, wrestling, field hockey and dance team members all shared ideas with our kids on sportsmanship, discussed key values, and debated conflict scenarios in a series of interactive stations.
During team-building exercises, everyone did a little dancing of their own [below]! SquashSmarts kids then taught the Drexel student-athletes about squash, concluding yet another great exchange between SquashSmarts and Drexel University. Special thanks toRebecca Gigli and Kathy O’Brien and the Drexel athletes for a tremendously rewarding day!
Academic Spring Break!
College Visits + Museum Tours + High School Placement + Poetry BBQ
Over Spring Break, 9th and 10th grade students began the daunting yet exciting process of visiting colleges in the Philadelphia area. After researching schools on-line, students visited Arcadia University, Lincoln University and West Chester University, touring campuses, checking out dorms and dining halls and speaking to students. As the kids delve further into their specific interests, future visits will be tailored to the student's specific needs.
During the break, the following 8th grade students learned that they had been accepted and making the leap on to high school!
Michael Baldwin, Saul High School for Agricultural Sciences
Jabria Campbell, High School of the Future
Mithun Das, Parkway West High School
Demonte Harris, Communications Technology High School
Devonte Harris, Communications Technology High School
Sakora Miller, Parkway West High School
Junaid Mukhtar, Science Leadership Academy
Ryan Wheeler, High School of the Future
Spike Lee’s films took center stage for the SquashSmarts kids who toured Philadelphia’s own African American Museum as part of their Spring Break celebration. Exhibits included African American History, a poster exhibit of African Americans in the film industry and various works of art local African American artists.
"Academic Spring Break" ended with students joining Academic Director Julie Williams at her home for a Poetry Slam & BBQ. Great respect and care were shown by all the students in reciting an original poem to cap off an afternoon including basketball, whiffle ball, piano and singing concerts, and a bit of swinging on the swing-set! Among all the good food and sunshine, the listening and appreciation of each other’s poetry proved most special.
Raffle Rally’s Squash Community!
03-24-2006
SquashSmarts would like to thank the entire Philadelphia squash community for its tremendous support of SquashSmarts 3rd annual Benefit Raffle. All told, 44 prizes were awarded and $17,000 was raised during a night of incredible squash (back-to-back five-game PSRA doubles finals!), nail-biting sports (Villanova’s double O.T. win in the NCAA basketball tournament!) and fantastic fun. Your support makes it possible for our 21 students to compete this weekend at the 2006 Urban Team Nationals in Boston. Thank you!
Raffle prizes generously donated by…
THE PIERCE FAMILY, COZEN O'CONNOR, THE ENDE FAMILY, PRINCE SQUASH, TINDER BOX & VINO 100, ZINMAN FURS, THE PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES, THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE, THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER, VIVA VINO IMPORT, EASE UP FITNESS, MARIGOLD RESTAURANT, CHLOE RESTAURANT, AUDREY CLAIRE RESTAURANT,TWENTY MANNING RESTAURANT, ANSILL RESTAURANT, VIGGIANO'S RESTAURANT, FORK RESTAURANT, WESTIN HOTEL PHILADLEPHIA, DREXEL ATHLETICS, THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL PHILADLEPHIA, THE MANN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, THE PHILADELPHIA SOUL ARENA FOOTBALL LEAGUE, THE TRINITY COLLEGE MEN'S SQUASH TEAM, MARY CROUSE, SHANE COLEMAN, BUCK ROGERS, SCOTT DEVOY, IMRAN KHAN, LOUIS RENZULLI, BRYAN PATTERSON, JOE RUSSELL, MIKE JEFFERYS & STEVE VIRGONA…. THANK YOU!!
Milestone Moment: Reaching the National Stage
03-10-2006
10th-grader and West Philadelphia native Tempest Bowden became the nation’s highest ranked Girls Under 17 African American squash player and the first SquashSmarts student-athlete to qualify for the 2006 United States National Junior Squash Championships (Gold Level).
The tournament, hosted by the USSRA and held at Yale University, showcases the country’s top 32 players in four age categories. After earning a state ranking of #11 through gritty performances at local and regional events, Miss Bowden narrowly clinched one of the few remaining spots in this year’s Girls Under 17 division.
When told by phone of her daughter’s achievement, Arnetta Bowden repeated the news over and over again before finally exclaiming, "My Girl’s Going To A National Championship!!!"
The GU17 draw featured perennial powerhouses Emily Park, Natasha Kingshott, Julie Cerullo and Cece Cortes. Tempest managed to avoid the top four seeds but did draw #5 seed and Philadelphia native Hannah Conant in her first-round match, followed by Philly neighbor Alexandra Glassman in the consolation round.
Conant, who finished the season ranked 7th, and Glassman, who finished 30th, may have ended Tempest’s run but both players were gracious and skilled competitors who, coincidentally, both volunteer with SquashSmarts!! At only 15 years of age, Tempest closed out the season ranked an impressive 39th in the United States.
Accompanying Tempest to New Haven were sister-and-best friend Quinnetta Bowden, a 3-year veteran of the SquashSmarts team, and program director Stephen Gregg.
SquashSmarts sweeps past NYC’s StreetSquash
03-18-2006
The SquashSmarts middle school team, lead by Andrew Hopkins, hosted New York rival StreetSquash in a duel match at the University of Pennsylvania's Ringe Squash Center. SquashSmarts players included Mithun Das, Brittany Kennedy, Michael Baldwin, DevonteHarris, Demonte Harris, Dewon Flythe.
StreetSquash brought tremendous energy and enthusiasm but limited match experience. In the end, the West Philly squad lost only one game in their 10-0 sweep of Harlem’s squash-trotters - an impressive feat considering the SquashSmarts students started playing five months ago. After the match, both teams retired to Drexel University for a fun pizza lunch and a tour of the SquashSmarts facility.
Special thanks Chris Tom and Claire Yunker of StreetSquash and our faithful SquashSmarts fans Chase Lenfest, Dan Marut and Joe Battle.
National Champion… Meet World Champion
02-23-2006
SquashSmarts 10th-grader and Urban National Squash Champion Tempest Bowden traveled to New York City Thursday night to participate in a special exhibition hosted by squash pro and founding SquashSmarts Board Member Ben Desombre at the world famous Princeton Club of New York.
Thanks to Ben’s special invitation, Tempest took advantage of rare opportunities to practice with current World #4 Thierry Lincou and speak with current World #1 Jonathan Power. Both Power (Canada) and Lincou (France) were in town prepping for the PSA’sTournament of Champions, held annually in Grand Central Station’s Vanderbilt Hall.
“I couldn’t believe it when Mr. Power told me he trained twice-a-day, six days a week. That’s just crazy!”
SquashSmarts Squash Director Andrew Hopkins made the journey with Tempest and shared this thought: “It’s not often a young amateur athlete will have a chance to practice with - let alone shake hands and have a laugh with - the number one in the world. Squash has always been really special that way and I’m glad that’s not changing.
On the ride back to Philly, Tempest turned to her coach and asked... “Can I practice twice tomorrow?”…
Drexel Crowns It’s Own Squash Champion
…Meanwhile, back at Drexel that same night, student freshman Auritrio Chaterjee was on his way to earning top student honors in the2006 Drexel Squash Championships.
Jointly organized by SquashSmarts and Drexel University, the 64-draw, single-elimination tournament featured seven SquashSmarts members and over forty Drexel students, faculty and staff making it the most successful Drexel squash event to date!
U.S. Junior Boy’s Team visits SquashSmarts
02-04-2006
U.S. National Coach Christopher Smith and six of his nationally-ranked junior team candidates lead SquashSmarts through a rigorous2-hour fitness and squash training practice Saturday at the University of Pennsylvania.
Coach Smith, who doubles as a full-time staff member at SquashSmarts sister program SquashBusters (Boston. MA) was assisted by US #1 Trevor McGuinness and his teammates Todd Ruth, Todd Harrity, Chris Callis, Chris Thompson and CJ Plimpton. All shared valuable insights into what it means to be a top notch athlete, to compete at the highest level, and to wear the “red, white and blue.”
SquashSmarts + Ben Franklin + ‘We The People!’
02-02-2006
Editors Note: This event received coverage in the “Powelton Post” newspaper of the Powelton Village Civic Association
The collection of artifacts, documents and interactive learning devices immersed our young students in Franklin’s own world, exposing them to his ingenious problem-solving methods and leaving them inspired by his example! Following the exhibit, the theatrical “docu-drama” and “audio-visual tour-de-force” Freedom Rising helped the students re-examine and re-define their role as citizens and their sense of civic responsibility.
The historic morning was capped with a “taste of Philly” as the team explored and dined in Philadelphia’s tastiest cultural exchange…Reading Terminal Market.
Recent Squash Results
01-2006
In their first taste of squash competition outside of Drexel’s courts, SquashSmarts’ newest group of middle school recruits (the Blue Team) battled their nerves and their talented opponents at The Shipley School on Wednesday. Final tally: 11-1 Shipley with SquashSmarts’ Jashan Johnson capturing the group’s first “W”!
In a more evenly balanced and equally hard-fought match held at the Cynwyd Club, SquashSmarts’ middle school veterans (Red Team) took on second-year rival Lower Merion High School. Final score: 6-3 Lower Merion, with SquashSmarts’ Junaid Bin Muhktar, SakoraMiller and Mithun Das achieving impressive victories.
A Special Day at SquashSmarts
01-16-2006
Community Service + Trinity Squash Team = Great Way to Celebrate M.L.K.
Giving back to the community not only feels good, it's part of SquashSmarts' most basic mission. Fourteen SquashSmarts students, lead by Andrew Hopkins, spent the morning making pillows and quilts for West Philadelphia’s nursing homes and shelters while seven teammates got down-and-dirty with Julie Williams painting and sprucing up the West Philly Community Education Center on 34th &Lancaster.
The team then returned to Drexel for a special practice with the 7-time National Champion Trinity Men’s Squash Team. Paul Assaianteand his squad of international and domestic superstars shared their love, knowledge and passion for the game during six action-packed "stations". Special thanks to our volunteers and boosters Joyce Davenport, Molly Pierce, Bob Partridge, David Kanthor, Amanda Cox, Vince & Trevor McGuinness and Dana & Rob Stewardson.
MLK Day Quotes:
“Now will never ever happen again… Take advantage of the amazing moment that is NOW.”
- Paul Assaiante, Trinity Men's Squash Coach & U.S.O.C. Coach of the Year.
Question: “So what makes your Trinity Team so special?”
- Quinetta Bowden, SquashSmarts member and 9th grade student
Answer: "Everything we do is for each other – we work, eat, get along, have fun, win and lose, and play hard together. Trinity does "TEAM" better than anyone else in the country.” – Shaun Johnstone, Trinity College junior and #1 player
“Today was an Awesome experience”
– Dr. Robert A. Partridge MD, Sports Psychologist
New Squash Director Hired
01-05-2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce the addition of Andrew Hopkins as its interim Director of Squash. Andrew joins SquashSmarts after spending five years working for Merrill Lynch in New York City.
Andrew began his collegiate squash career at Franklin & Marshall where he played number nine for a squad ranked as high as 5thnationally. In addition, Andrew was a starter on F&M’s Varsity Lacrosse team. After his freshman year, Andrew transferred to The University of Pennsylvania where he lettered in squash each of his three years, serving as a captain both his junior and senior year.
As SquashSmarts’ Squash Director, Andrew takes great pride and enjoyment in fostering the development of our student’s talents both on the court and in the classroom. A native of Boston, Andrew’s credentials include: the completion of a half-Ironman (June 2005); varsity squash team member and captain at the University of Pennsylvania; Franklin & Marshall varsity lacrosse team member; college guidance mentor for “Minds Matter” serving New York City youth.
“Andrew brings tremendous experience, professionalism and warmth to the program,” comments Director Stephen Gregg. “This is wonderful news for our kids and is the perfect way start to kick a great new year!”
To contact Andrew, or learn more about volunteering with SquashSmarts, please call 215-895-4964 or send Andrew an email atashopkins@gmail.com.
$20,000 Challenge for New Donors
01-01-2006
Matching Grant Provides New Donors With A Great Incentive
Now Through June 30, 2006
SquashSmarts is pleased to announce an extraordinary matching grant of $20,000 made possible through The H. Chase & Ana Maria Lenfest Foundation. Now through June 30th, every gift made by friends and families who have NOT previously supported SquashSmarts will have their donation matched dollar-for-dollar… up to $20,000. Help is reach our goal!
Matching Challenge Form - Click Here
or
Make Your Donation On-Line - Click Here
Please consider a contribution today to maximize your support and help provide our kids with their very 'best shot' on the court and in the classroom. For more information, please contact SquashSmarts at 215-895-4963 or info@squashsmarts.org.