Squash Smarts


 

SQUASHMARTS NEWS

SquashSmarts Seniors Going To College!

 

Five out of five seniors received admission into the college, university or post-graduate program of their choice. 

 

        

 

Amber Thomas. Delaware State University, Albany State University

Jasmin Wingate. Mt. Aloysius College [also accepted: Coppin State University & Eastern University]

Marcedes Kennedy. Bloomsburg University

Rachel Edmonds. Haverford College [also accepted: American University, Howard University & Lincoln University]

Tempest Bowden. Mercersburg Academy, post-graduate high school program

 

Please Join us Saturday June 21, 2008  from 11:00am-1:00pm as SquashSmarts salutes Amber, Jasmine, Mercedes, Rachel and Tempest and all of its students grades 6th-11th at our 2008 Year-End Celebration. This year’s ceremony features keynote speaker Dr. Stephen Treat, CEO of the Philadelphia-based Council on Relationships.

 

 

SquashSmarts Hosts 2008 National Championship

04-11-2007

 

      

 

250 student-athletes from seven U.S. cities descended on SquashSmarts’ North Philadelphia program for The 2008 National Urban Squash & Education Team Championships. The competition marked the first national championship held outside of Boston, MA, the birthplace of urban squash and education. All matches took place at the new Lenfest Center, SquashSmarts multi-million dollar youth center located in North Philadelphia's Hunting Park. Students ranging in age from 10 to 19 traveled from Boston, Chicago, New Haven, New York and San Diego to compete for national age-group titles.

 

    

SquashSmarts gathers for a pre-match photo; SquashSmarts honors patron Leo Pierce Sr.; NUSEA welcomes San Diego and New Haven.

photos by Marvin Greenbaum

 

SquashSmarts Team Results

Girls Under 19 Team - 2nd place

Boys Under 19 Team - 3rd place

Boys Under 15 Team - 3rd place

Girls Under 13 Team - 3rd place

Boys Under 13 Team - 3rd place

 

- Philadelphia Inquirer Covers the Action! -

 

“ USING SQUASH TO GET ON THE BALL”

Children from Struggling Districts Learn a Sport of

Movers and Shakers, and a few Things About Life.

 

Text by Melissa Dribben, Inquirer Staff Writer; Photo by April Saul, Inquirer Staff Photographer; Posted on Sun, Apr. 13, 2008

 

This weekend, 260 kids from public schools in Harlem, the Bronx, Boston, Chicago, San Diego, New Haven, and some of Philadelphia's diciest neighborhoods descended on a state-of-the-art athletic center in Hunting Park. From 8 a.m. yesterday until past 7 p.m., they streamed in, climbed to the second story, and dumped their bags in a corner that began to look like the lost-baggage counter at American Airlines. Then they put on their goggles, picked up their rackets, and, two by two, entered through a glass wall to pitilessly bash a little black ball in a bright-white court in a game of squash.

 

Yes. Squash.

 

A game of the English gentry, it was developed in the 1800s at the elite Harrow School and long remained the nearly exclusive domain of white men in white shorts who picked up the sport at prep school, practiced it at an Ivy, and went on to play at private clubs with partners from the firm.

 

Not surprising, then, that most of the athletes at this weekend's National Urban Squash Tournament, who come from low-income families in school districts with little or no after-school athletics, never knew that squash was anything other than a vegetable. That is, until recruiters from one of the seven new urban squash programs showed up during gym with a video, a few rackets and balls, and a sign-up sheet.

 

"It was like the best hurricane that ever came through someone's life," says Quinetta Bowden, 16, a sophomore at the Philadelphia High School for Girls. She and her older sister, Tempest, have played since 2002, when the nonprofit SquashSmarts visited the city's Morton McMichael School to launch the program.

 

The program's energetic leaders, who introduced themselves as Miss Julie and Chase Lenfest, appeared like emissaries from Planet Happy-Ever-After, the sisters recall.

 

"They looked so different," Tempest, 18, says. "She was wearing tights and shorts and a fleece. He was in bombed-out sneaks."

 

"They made it seem so inviting," says Quinetta. "Like if you joined, you had instant success."

 

 

Quinetta Bowden (left), with Brittany Kennedy, wants to be a lawyer,

and SquashSmarts, she said, showed her "what I want is not far-fetched."

 

The third program of its kind in the country, SquashSmarts recruits sixth graders and commits to work with them for at least three years, teaching and coaching squash, but also providing academic tutoring, summer camps, Outward Bound experiences and travel, and high school and college placement.

 

Ten to 14 children are chosen from each sixth-grade class after tryouts, says Stephen Gregg, executive director, as he marks the results of the first round of this tournament's matches on giant easels. This is the first time the tournament is being held in Philadelphia.

 

Until last fall, SquashSmarts used courts at Drexel University. But in October, it expanded its program into a new, two-story, 57,000-square-foot facility in Hunting Park. The $9 million center was funded by Ana Maria and H. Chase Lenfest. The same Chase Lenfest who played squash at Yale and showed up at the McMichael School in the bombed-out sneaks.

 

SquashSmarts' objective is not to get its graduates into Ivy League schools, but to open up their world and let them dream big.

 

"We don't take the best and brightest or the athletically gifted," Gregg says. "What we're looking for is just commitment. How hard you try. Success, similarly, has less to do with winning matches than attendance, good conduct and teamwork."

 

Most of the students come from homes and neighborhoods bruised by urban poverty.

 

"They tend to be older than their years," Gregg says. "This allows them to be kids."

 

One of yesterday's competitors, Maria Perez, says she has been getting into a lot less trouble since she started playing squash in January.

 

"People used to get on my nerves," she explains, so she would get into fights. "I was kicked out of three schools."

 

Maria, 13, lives in Hunting Park with her mother, who is unemployed and disabled, and three siblings.

 

Through squash, she says, she is learning to deal with frustration.

 

"They started encouraging me. . . . On the court, it feels good. It's all right when you lose because winning isn't everything. That's what they tell you."

 

Six years after holding a squash racket for the first time, Quinetta Bowden has played on teams that twice came in second in national urban tournaments. She's good, she says, but sister Tempest is even better.

 

In 2006, while in 10th grade, Tempest qualified for the U.S. junior nationals and became the nation's highest-ranked African American squash player among girls under 17. (She's now ranked 42d in the under-19 group.) "People call us the Venus and Serena Williams of squash," Quinetta says.

 

At first, she says, "we played with used goggles and rackets."

 

"But we didn't care," says Tempest. "Because we didn't know what new looked like."

 

A year after they started playing, their parents went through a difficult divorce.

 

"It was like a twilight zone. You were in this whole bunch of mess," says Tempest. "But when you were in squash, you could leave that. Hit the ball. Take out some of that anger."

 

Their father, Kenneth, accompanied them to the tournament to help man the grill and serve several hundred hot dogs and burgers to the athletes. A former cook at Champps and a Sheraton hotel, he has been out of work since February 2006 and living on disability payments.

 

"You know you have great aspirations for your kids. But growing up in this area, even though they have big dreams, you don't know how they're going to get there."

 

With the help of SquashSmarts, Tempest will graduate from Gratz High School in June and attend Mercersburg Academy, a postgraduate boarding school; she plans eventually to teach kindergarten. Through the program, her sister spent her 16th birthday at a squash program in London.

 

"I want so much," says Quinetta, who is determined to become a lawyer. "And it showed me what I want is not far-fetched."

 

Adds her sister, "Because you've seen the world outside of Philly, you know there's so much more out there."

 

Yesterday, the sisters won their matches, both 3-0. Today, they're in the finals.

 

Philly Spring Clean Up

04-05-2007

 

 

Thousands of citizens, including 150 SquashSmarts students, staff and volunteers, joined together on Saturday, April 5 to clean up Philadelphia’ Mayor Nutter and his staff chose SquashSmarts and the Hunting Park neighborhood as one of 160 local community organizations.

 

 

New Partner: St. Ignatius Nursing Home

01-31-2007

 

SquashSmarts and St. Ignatius Nursing Home at 44th and Haverford forged a new relationship that will bring both groups together each month. Regular activities will include bingo, art classes, physical therapy and maybe even a little tai chi! To get involved, please contact Jake at 215-895-4963 or jake@squashsmarts.org.

 

 

New 6th Graders Join The Team!

01-31-2007

 

Twenty new 6th grade students joined the team this month, including twelve boys and girls from Robert Clemente Elementary and eight girls and boys from Drew Elementary.

 

SquashSmarts Observes Veterans Day

11-12-2007

 

This Veterans Day, SquashSmarts reached out to the men and women of our armed forces overseas during the 2nd annual “Letter's to Soldiers” writing project. Students listened to board member Andre Stephano, former enlisted marine and current lieutenant in the US Naval Reserve, then created beautiful heart-felt letters to our soldiers. "I am honored you are reading my letters and grateful for what you are doing for our country”…… “I play and love to do things my way in my free time but if it weren't for you I couldn't do that… so when you sign that paper to fight for us I understand what you give up and I appreciate it.”

 

Katie Bicknese joins Academic Program Staff

11-12-2007

 

Katie Bicknese joins SquashSmarts after two years with City Year Greater Philadelphia where she served as a corps member in West Philadelphia’s Overbrook High School as well as in their Development Department.  Katie discovered her passion for community involvement at Penn State where she served hundreds of hours with Alpha Phi Omega, a national co-educational service fraternity.  Of all the community work she's done, Katie is most thrilled when she sees a student's face light up after learning something challenging.  "After-school programming is what made me enjoy my childhood and find a place for myself.  Nothing makes me happier than being able to give such an incredible opportunity to today's youth." 

Katie’s complete bio

 

Jeff Coursen joins Board of Directors

11-2007

 

Mr. Coursen joins SquashSmarts after serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at ATX Communications, where he held various executive management positions for thirteen years.  Mr. Coursen is currently active in several professional boards and non-profit associations and was appointed in March 2007 as Executive in Residence by the Drexel Lebow College of Business where he will work closely with the Graduate School of Business and Krall Center for Corporate Education as well as serve as Adjunct Professor. Mr. Coursen received his B.A. from Ohio Wesleyan University 1985, graduated from The Georgetown University Business School Professional Development Program in 1992, the Drexel University Executive M.B.A. program in 1999 and continues to participate in the Wharton School Executive Management Development Program.

 

StreetSquash Helps Christens New Facility

11-06-2007

 

Two rival programs met for an eagerly anticipated match at the new SquashSmarts center in North Philadelphia. The outing was a great success with hard fought matches, terrific sportsmanship and an opportunity for students from the two cities to bond. Our middle school team took down StreetSquash's 9th grade team by a score of 6-2; Our High School Girls Team tied StreetSquash 3-3 with wins by Tempest Bowden, Sakora Miller and Brittany Kennedy; our High School Boys team fell to their NY rivals 5-3 with Demonte Harris, Devonte Harris and Lamin Conteh earning victories.  Special thanks to Molly Pierce and Bob Bitterman for their support and coaching!

 

SquashSmarts welcome StreetSquash to the Lenfest Center

 

SquashSmarts Grand Opening a Grand Success

10-20-2007

 

On October 20th, SquashSmarts unveiled its new 50,000 sq ft athletic-academic center in North Philadelphia with the celebration of the Best Shot Ball, a spectacular evening that drew 375 friends and patrons and raised over $81,000 in support the SquashSmarts students. Special guests included Governor Edward Rendell, Fox Sport’s Don Tollefson, Phillie Phanatic, Eagles Swoop and World Squash Champions Jon Power and John White. Our thanks to all who attended this wonderful night.

 

 

Governor Rendell and Phillie Phanatic rally around the SquashSmarts kids.

 

Student Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqbMLSs-RDY

Grand Opening Photos here: http://www.squashsmarts.org/BestShotBall.html

 

SquashSmarts Middle School Students Help Rebuild Homes
04-28-07

 

SquashSmarts students donned their hard hats and joined forces with "The Other Carpenter" to help two West Philadelphia families refurbish and repair their damaged homes. "The Other Carpenter" is an organization that assists homeowners in the East Parkside community of West Philadelphia with maintenance and home improvement.  The students split into two groups. Team 1 painted and provided support for structural repairs to a home occupied by a disabled senior citizen and her son with Down's Syndrome that could not perform repairs themselves. Students 7th graders Denise Roundtree and Shenae Walters were designated as "team painters," and while they seemed to get as much paint on their clothes and in their hair, the family was thrilled with the transformation of the bedroom from dingy, peeling painted walls to sparkling clean, bright walls.  Teamates Nathaniel Smith and volunteer Andrew McGuinness served as carpenters removing damaged walls, molding and window sills and replacing them with new wood and dry wall.

 

Team 2 was dispatched a few blocks away to help a senior citizen couple whose home also needed major structural repairs. Community Service Coordinator Trevor McGuinness led this group with the assistance from 12th grader Rachel Edmonds who also doubled as the projct photographer. Student workers included John Batista, Joe Johnson, Dewon Flythe and Justin Roebuck who worked as carpenters as they repaired damaged walls, ceilings and framing. The family was ecstatic with the results and expressed their gratitude that an organized group of students would spend a free Saturday helping strangers in need. 

 

After handshakes and hugs, the cheery group asked in unison "when can we do this again?!!" - a sign of a successful day of service.  Special thanks to Lisa Stokes, chair of the SquashSmarts Community Service Committee, who was far more successful putting paint on the walls than on her clothes and to Board Member Pete Prinsen who introduced SquashSmarts to this worthy organization.

 

SquashSmarts Student Shares Foreign Perspective
04-19-07

 

 

Congratulations to Lamin Conteh, 9th grader at National Constitution Center who was chosen among his peers to speak at an official swearing-in ceremony for recently approved U.S. Citizens at the National Constitution Center on Thursday, April 19, 2007.  Lamin is an inspiration for everyone who strives to achieve their dreams.  Here is an excerpt from his speech:

 

"Hello my name is Lamin Conteh. I was born in Sierra Leone.  Being an immigrant myself, I can tell how joyful you all are at this moment . Watching you now as you receive your citizenship today makes me proud and hopeful that if I work hard, some day I too will become a citizen."

 

On March 8th Lamin had the further opportunity to meet with author Ishmael Beah at the WHYY studio during a live broadcast of Radio Times with Marty Moss Cohen.  Ishmael, a fellow native of Sierra Leon was in Philadelphia on a media tour for his best-selling memoir A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier. The author took time after the show to speak with Lamin about school and squash and to reminisce about life in their homeland. The two exchanged email addresses and continue to keep in touch. The experience brought smiles to everyone in the studio. Special thanks to Marty Moss-Cohen, Susan Greenbaum and the entire Radio Times staff.

 

 

 

 

2007 National Urban Squash Team Championships

Sponsored by NUSEA

March 30-April 1, 2007

Boston, MA

 

 

 

     

 

Seven years ago, on May 13, 2000 to be exact, a team of eager junior squash players from New York's StreetSquash traveled to Boston to face SquashBusters at the elite and venerable Harvard University's Murr Center squash courts.

 

At that first urban squash match, the New York team captured the title over the then-four-year-old Boston-based SquashBusters. Players and spectators alike described the play and atmosphere as "unbelievable" and "incredible".

 

Seven years later, that same exuberance still resounds at the National Urban Squash Team Championships, held this year at Northeastern University's SquashBusters' facility and sponsored by the newly formed National Urban Squash & Education Association (NUSEA).

 

This year's tournament featured 240 students from all five NUSEA-member programs, including: Philadelphia's SquashSmarts, Chicago's MetroSquash, New York's City Squash and Harlem's StreetSquash and Boston's SquashBusters.

 

Tournament Director Chris Smith, who coached last year's US Junior Men's team in New Zealand commented on the talent, commitment and camaraderie of the players over the weekend.

 

"The fact that this event in its 4th year has 240 kids representing 4 cities and 5 programs shows just how far Urban Squash has come."

 

 The NUSEA Team Championships is in fact the 3rd biggest tournament in the United States (250 played at the US Jr Closed and 280 played at the US Jr Open) and even with that many participants, the event went off without a hitch.

 The expert scheduling and tournament management by Smith and all the programs' staffers was evident as the tournament proceeded over three flawless days.

 

In the Girls Under 13 Round Robin, SquashBusters claimed a decisive victory, only losing one match out of 15 played. New York's City Squash, another juggernaut, claimed the Girls Under 15 draw, also losing only one match on the road to victory.

 

Harlem's powerhouse, StreetSquash flew through their draw, eagerly awaiting West Philadelphia's SquashSmarts in a painfully tight Girls Under 17/19 title match, with StreetSquash edging out SquashSmarts 3-2.

 

David Kay's prior experience as a teaching pro and coach at Rochester University was evident in the Boys U13 draw, as his enthusiastic MetroSquash team clinched the Boys U13 title in an intelligently fought battle. City Squash ruled the Boys U15 Draw, defeating SquashBusters 4-1.

 

A standing room only crowd packed Northeastern's facility to watch some of the best squash in the Boys U17/19 final. SquashBusters proved themselves to be the best, decisively picking apart StreetSquash 4-1 in a creative display of squash competition that left viewers in awe.

"It is unbeliveable how quickly many of these students pick up the game and develop," remarked SquashSmarts Steve Gregg. "They're tremendous athletes but they are also tremendous people. Each child here is proud to identify with his or her team. And we are just very honored to be a part of the whole culture. It's a special reunion - every year." 

 

 

SquashSmarts Team Results

 

The weekend would not have been possible with SquashSmats volunteers: Alison Hart, Mike Gale, parent Marylin Batista and the ever smiling Jean-Elise. Special thanks to friends and supporters Helen Bamber, Eric Tietz, Katie Greenbaum and Nicole Belanger. An extra thanks is also due to Squash Director Jacob Greenbaum for orchestrating the entire weekend. 

 

Under 19 Girls: 2nd Place

Amber Thomas (captain)

Tempest Bowden

Jasmine Wingate

Sakora Miller

Quinetta Bowden

Brittany Kennefy

 

Under 19 Boys: 3rd Place

Lamin Conteh (captain)

Junaid Bin Mukhtar

Kalik Stanley

Mithun Das

Devonte Harris

Demonte Harris

 

Under 15 Girls: 3rd Place

Yawa Adjesson (captain)

Denise Roundtree

Shanae Waters

 

Under 13 Boys: 4th Place

Dewon Flythe (co-captain)

Justin Roebuck (co-captain)

Joe Johnson

John Batista


SquashSmarts Plants Trees in University City
3-24-07

After a walk through the beautiful Locust Walk at 9:30am on Saturday, March 24 the SquashSmarts students were greeted by members from the UC Green organization. Not leaving a minute to waste, the middle school students took action and began digging. Their teamwork, camaraderie, and enthusiasm was certainly evident; there were over 30 volunteers fighting to plant 14 trees, and SquashSmarts planted four. While many groups struggled to work together, the SquashSmarts students embraced the challenge and repeted their efforts until the job was done. Their enthusiasm was so overwhelming that they had a race down Locust Walk the whole way home. They were even so excited about the project that they asked if they could do it again next weekend (even though they have Urban Teams)!!


Raffle Rally's Squash Community
3-23-07

 

SquashSmarts would like to thank the entire Philadelphia squash community for its tremendous support of the 4rth Annual SquashSmarts Charity Raffle and PSRA Awards Dinner! All told, more than 50 prizes were awarded and over $13,000 was raised during a night of incredible squash and festivities. 

 

Your support allows 22 students from West Philadelphia to compete this weekend at the US National Junior Bronze Championships in Berwyn, PA and also at the National Urban Teams Championship in Boston, MA . 

 

SquashSmarts would like to congratulate each of the Winners and Finalist who played brilliantly and provided wonderful entertainment.  

 

Special additinoal thanks to…

 

Molly Pierce & John Makransky, PSRA Tournament Co-Chairs and SquashSmarts Board members

Lisa Stokes, Caleb Tindall & Joanne Jackson, Merion Cricket Club Hosts

Jacob Greenbaum, Raffle "MC" by night, SquashSmarts Squash Director by day

Demer Holleran & Jamie Heldring, Tournament referees

Peter Prinsen, SquashSmarts raffle ticket winner (for the third year in a row) with over $7,000 in sales!

Kalik Stanley , Andrew McGuinness, Clare Kuensell, Rebecca Greenberg, Denise Roundtree, Brittany Kennedy, Yawa & Joe Johnson, Student & Volunteer

The SquashSmarts & PSRA Board of Directors for their continued support of our students

All of the wonderful fans, friends and raffle sponsors who rallied to support SquashSmarts & the PSRA

 

Raffle prizes generously donated by…

 

A GREEN THING, ANSILL RESTAURANT, BALA EYE CARE, BRYAN PATTERSON, CHLOE RESTAURANT, DARA BERGER, DREXEL CREW COACH TERAH SCHAMBERG, DREXEL UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT, GAVIN JONES, HOWARD ESKIN'S & 610 WIP, JEFFREY MILLER CATERING, JIMMY ROLLINS, JOE RUSSELL, JOSEPH EAGLE & EASE UP, THE PIERCE FAMILY,  MARIGOLD KITCHEN RESTAURANT, MARY CROUSE, MERION CRICKET CLUB, MIKE JEFFERYS, PHILADELPHIA 76ERS, PHILADELPHIA DOWNTOWN MARRIOTT, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES , PHILADELPHIA EAGLES BASKETBALL TEAM, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES YOUTH PARTNERSHIP CARNIVAL, PHILADELPHIA FLYERS, PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES, PHILADELPHIA SOUL, PHILADLEPHIA EAGLES TRAINING CAMP, PIF RESTAURANT, PRINCE SQUASH, STEVE VIRGONA, THE BELLWOOD CLUB, THE CYNWYD CLUB, THE MANN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, TINA RICKS, TINDERBOX, UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA MEN'S AND WOMEN'S SQUASH TEAMS.. Thank You!!!


Hard Work Earns Local Victory

01-21-07

 

Congratulations to SquashSmarts 5-year veteran Tempest Bowden who drove, boasted and dropped her way to the Girls Under 17 championship at “The Squash Club at CHA Tournament” this past weekend in Chestnut Hill, PA.  Tempest, who finished last season ranked 34th in the country and earned a coveted spot in U.S. Junior Nationals (Gold Level), became the first SquashSmarts student-athlete ever to win a USSRA sanctioned competition! Tempest defeated three very challenging opponents, including top-seeded Stephanie Jewitt 9-1, 9-7, 9-4, en route to the GU17 title. For those attending, it was tough to miss the calm yet ever-present smile on the impressive young athlete's face.

 

Competing alongside Tempest were teammates Mithun Das (BU15), Devonte Harris (BU15), Kalik Stanley (BU17) and Junaid Bin Muhktar (BU17). Junaid's heroic comeback from a two-game deficit turned many heads in the crowd. Overall, the team proved to be class acts on and off the court, showing sportsmanship, determination and fantastic teamwork in cheering on each other and having a great time. Special thanks to Bryan Patterson, Joe Russell and Mike Jefferys for running a fantastic event and Trevor McGuinness, Henry Miller and Quinetta Bowden for their expert coaching and support. 

 

Kids Giving Back
01-16-07

 

Martin Luther King Day 2007: SquashSmarts traveled to nearby Parkway West High School for a hectic yet rewarding day of cleaning, painting and restoration. The kids split into groups and cleaned closets, classrooms, storage areas and even two badly cluttered attics in order to make room for new materials and supplies. Finally, the students helped rearranged the school’s computer lab to allow Parkway students a cleaner place to use their new computers. The team then board the bus back to Drexel's Daskalaskis Athletic Center for an exciting afternoon of squash.  Special thanks to volunteers Anna Adler and Lara Stevenson; Parkway West organizer Paulette Christie; members of the DuPont Corporation; and the local residents and high school students who attend Parkway.

 

M.A.N.N.A.: Each Tuesday and Thursday (5:30-8:00pm) SquashSmarts kids visit the MANNA soup kitchen on 20th and Market Street to help prepare meals for nutritionally deficient residents living right here in Philadelphia, including those with HIV and terminal illnesses. If you ave a free evening and interested in lending a hand, contact Trevor McGuinness at 215-895-4964 and spend a memorable and meaningful evening with our students.

 

SquashSmarts wants YOUR ideas on meaningful Community activities appropraite for Middle School students for our March, April and May community projects. Please send your creative suggestions to Trevor McGuinness at trevormcg@gmail.com or call 215-895-4964.

 

Congratulations to New 6th Grade Team Members
01-09-2007

The following students from Drew and McMichael Elementary Schools have successfully completed the rigorous fall tryout session and will join SquashSmarts as full team members this January. Congratulations to John Batista, Joseph Johnson, Denise Roundtree, Nathaniel Smith, Shenae Walters and their families

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. e are 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 at Drexel 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 the Philadelphia 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 and Mike 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 City casino; 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 the United 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, The Philadelphia 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 to Rebecca Gigli and Kathy O’Brien and the Drexel athletes for a tremendously rewarding day!

 

 

Pop “Art After Dark” Tribute Winners

Congratulations to 10th grader Rachel Edmonds and 6th grader Dewon Flythe whose winning pop-art drawings will appear in the  prestigious Philadelphia Art Museum’s “Art After Dark” gala tribute program book. Our thanks to Ana Maria Lenfest, tribute book editor, for creating, encouraging and acting as judge for this student-run contest!

 

 

 

Budding young artists and their hip, pop-art drawings!

 

 

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. 

 

Students at Lincoln University

 

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.

 

Outiside the African American Museum

 

"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

 

Students come together at  the PSRA raffle (Merion Cricket Club)

Photo courtesy of Donna Heckscher.

 

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.

 

“What an extraordinary moment for a wonderful young girl,” says Gregg. “This weekend was all about the experience and triumph of being at Nationals.  Next year, as she matures and channels her energy, you’ll hear a lot more about Tempest Bowden.”

 

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, Devonte Harris, 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’s Tournament 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!”

 

Tempest Bowden poses with Jonathan Power (World #1) and has a hit on court with Thierry Lincou (World #4).

 

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 the 2006 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!

 

2006 Drexel Squash Championship – Results [PDF format]

 

2005 Drexel Squash Championship participants

 

 

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 rigorous 2-hour fitness and squash training practice Saturday at the University of Pennsylvania. 

 

Our Squash Director Andrew Hopkins introduces U.S.

National Junior Men’s Team Coach Chris Smith.

 

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.

 

SquashSmarts visit the Constitution Center & Franklin Exhibit.

 

Last week, SquashSmarts went In Search of a Better World at the National Constitution Center with 24 boys and girls from the West Philadelphia after school youth program touring the world-premier Benjamin Franklin Exhibition created to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Philadelphia’s favorite founding father. 

 

Jasmin, Kalik, Quinetta & Tempest hangin with their founding fathers.

 

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. 

 

7th Grader Dewon Flythe adds his "Dewon Hancock" to the Constitution!

 

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.

 

Yawa and Jabria navigate Reading Terminal and look for the "best buy". 

 

 

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”!

 

Students learn to shake hands, compete and smile!

 

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, Sakora Miller 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.

 

Students work hard in the morning... Play hard in the afternoon.

 

The team then returned to Drexel for a special practice with the 7-time National Champion Trinity Men’s Squash Team. Paul Assaiante and 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

 

After five stations on the court, SquashSmarts students got to interview Trinity players at “Station #6”.  The fun, informative round table gave kids a chance to ask the nation's top college players some of the really tough questions.

 

 

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 5th nationally.  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 at ashopkins@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.

 

 

Providing great opportunities… Chase & Ana Maria Lenfest accompany

The SquashSmarts students to a Philadelphia 76’ers basketball game.

 

 

Making [Radio] Waves

11-28-2005

Drexel’s Athletic Department today unveiled a Public Service Announcement that will promote the SquashSmarts after school youth program. The Service Announcement will air on Philadelphia’s WFIL AM-990 during forty-two Drexel men’s and women’s basketball games.

“This comes at a great time for us and will provide tremendous exposure for our mission,” says SquashSmarts director Stephen Gregg. “Drexel Basketball has reached spectacular heights on court, and we’re thrilled to be aligned with two such high quality teams,” Gregg adds referring to the Drexel women’s basketball team which recently earned their 300th career victory, and to the men’s basketball team which garnered national attention during their 78-68 loss to number one-ranked Duke University at the pre-season N.I.T. in Madison Square Garden. “Drexel University continues to be a key partner, and Drexel's student-athletes are excellent role-models for our kids. It’s a perfect match.”

Catch the radio clip live on WFIL AM-990 during each Drexel basketball half-time show, or listen to the clip HERE. Special thanks to Drexel athletic director Dr. Eric Zillmer and his staff.

 

Walk-a-thon Supports United Negro College Fund

10-22-2005

 

SquashSmarts students, staff and volunteers braved the cold and rain Saturday morning to raise money for the Philadelphia Chapter of the United Negro College Fund.  More than twenty SquashSmarts supporters – including stellar volunteers Joe Blancuzzi, Baird McIvain and Shapley Stauffer – enjoyed the early morning walk along West River Drive and raised $206 in support of the U.N.C.F.

 

This event was made possible thanks to Logan Capitol Management, presenting sponsor for SquashSmarts’ Community Service activities.

 

Just how important was SquashSmarts’ participation in the walk-a-thon? Carolyn Starling-Love of the U.N.C.F. writes: “Congratulations!! SquashSmarts had the greatest number of walkers for the United Negro College Fund, Philadelphia Area Office 2005 Walk-A-Thon. It was great having all of you with us for the walk, and we look forward to sharing other events together!”

 

 

 

 

 

SquashSmarts Staff Member Named “Comcast MVP”

10-2005

 

SquashSmarts’ Executive Director Stephen Gregg was recently named Comcast SportsNet's M.V.P. of the Month. Gregg and the SquashSmarts program were featured in a five minute exclusive segment on Comcast Sports Network’s (CSN) SportsNite on Tuesday, October 18. 

 

SportsNet’s M.V.P. award is given monthly to a person in the Delaware Valley who has gone above and beyond to impact others' lives in the sports community and who has made a difference in the community.  Gregg is proud to accept the award on behalf of the entire SquashSmarts Staff and Board of Directors.

Comcast SportsNite reporters interview SquashSmarts

students outside of the Drexel’s squash courts.

 

 

Logan Capital Management:

Community Service Sponsor

09-2005

 

SquashSmarts is proud to announce its newest program sponsor, Logan Capital Management, a leader in the investment advisory business. This exciting new partnership will enhance SquashSmarts’ Community Service program which provides between 300 and 400 hours of service to the local community.

 

Logan and SquashSmarts paired up in August for a professional photo shoot at the Drexel University squash courts. The final product - which features the students and staff of SquashSmarts alongside Logan Capital's management personnel -- is slated to appear as a two-page color spread in the Academy of Music Annual Ball fundraising brochure.

 

Inaugurated in 1957 and held each January, The Academy of Music Anniversary Concert and Ball is a major annual event in Philadelphia and one of the most successful fundraising events in the country.

 

Following the photo shoot, which was orchestrated by Square 2 Marketing, the SquashSmarts kids posed for a few more photos of their own!

 

CHAMPIONS AMONG US!

06-2005

 

Twenty-four SquashSmarts students joined 200 of their peers from New York and Boston for the 3rd annual Urban Individual National Squash Championships hosted by Groton School in Groton, MA.  Highlights from the event included a new National Champion and much, much more!

 

Tempest Bowden, National Urban Squash Competition - Champion, Girls Under17. Tempest is SquashSmarts' first ever national squash champion!  She will attend the Jonathan Power Dartmouth Squash Camp this summer.

 

SquashSmarts Trophy Winners

Tempest Bowden – Girls U17 Winner

Lamin Conteh – Boys U13 3rd Place

Jasmine Wingate – Girls U15 3rd Place

Kareem Price – Boys U15 Main Plate Winner

Curtis Johnson – Boys U17 Consolation Winner

Tyreek Davis – Boys U15 Consolation Winner

 

 

The SquashSmarts Team, Special Thanks to David Kanthor & Julie Williams, Amanda Cox, Tony Meyers, Vijay Chitnis and Tournament Directors Chris Smith, Stephen Gregg and Peter Karlen.

 

2005 Urban Squash Nationals – Complete Results

https://www.bcisoft.com/railstation/default.aspx?sraid=10

 

 

 

9th Grader Marcedes Kennedy Wins National Urban Poetry Contest

06-2005

 

Marcedes Kennedy, an avid SquashSmarts member since 2002 and a 9th grade platoon leader at the Philadelphia Military Academy, was selected as the inaugural winner of the Urban Squash National Poetry Contest (co-ed Under 17 age group).  Kennedy received her award for the poem “Who’s He” at the Urban Squash Individual National Tournament in Groton, MA.  Below is an excerpt from the poem:

 

“Find a person in your life… Who Makes You Feel Pretty”

“Who likes to hear the tough of your voice… Better than his own”

 

SquashSmarts joined SquashBusters, StreetSquash, CitySquash and KidzSquash in honoring four winners and eight finalists in the Under 13, 15, 17 and 19 co-ed age categories.  Honorable mention went to SquashSmarts team members Gina Lambert for “Dreams” (U13) and Jasmin Wingate for “Death” (U15): The poetry contest was spearheaded by SquashSmarts staff member David Kanthor and will be held annually in conjunction with the Urban Squash Individual Nationals to promote Academics and self-esteem.

 

Marcedes Kennedy reads her winning poem “Who’s He” to a crowd of 200 students and staff members. Kennedy was also a nominee for the 2005 Urban Achievement Award. She will attend the Princeton Squash Training Center this summer.

 

 

 

Congratulations, Middle School Graduates!

06-2004

 

Five SquashSmarts team members held their heads high this week as they took center state at their Middle School graduation.

 

Quinetta Bowden

Middle School: McMichael - Class Salutatorian!

High School: Girls High

 

Tyreek Davis

Midde School: Drew School – Physical Fitness Award

High School: Central

 

Toni Glover

Midde School: McMichael

High School: Philadelphia Military Academy

 

Kareem Price  

Midde School: Martha Washington

High School: Mastbaum

 

Curtis Johnson

Midde School: Martha Washington

High School: Mastery

 

 

McMichael Salutatorian Quinetta Bowden shares words of wisdom with her class, including fellow SquashSmarts teammate Toni Glover.

 

 

Kareem Price and Curtis Johnson celebrate at Martha Washington.

 

Tyreek Davis shows his excitement after winning Drew School’s Physical Fitness award.

 

 

Fashion, with a Passion, for Kids!

12-2004

 

SquashSmarts Star Bracelets

 

The latest fashion craze emerged at the 2004 United States Junior Open: the SquashSmarts star bracelet.

 

 

Designed, developed and marketed by 16-year old Sandra Mumanachit of Narberth, PA, the hip, red, round bracelets are etched with the name of Philadelphia’s first-and-only urban youth squash program, SquashSmarts..

 

The idea for the bracelets stemmed from the yellow silicon ‘LiveStrong’ Lance Armstrong version which has become a cult collectors’ item in recent months. And like the Armstrong original, all proceeds from the SquashSmarts bracelets benefited a worthy cause – the kids from SquashSmarts!

 

Of the 400 bracelets, available for $3.00/piece, all sold out within a matter of hours. Sales were diligently handles by Sandra, her sister, Sarah, and the four SquashSmarts team members (Tempest Bowden, Tyreek Davis, Rachel Edmonds and Kareem Price) who qualified for the US Open. All made great effort to spread the newest fad.

 

With 500-plus players, coaches, and parents in attendance at the Yale tournament, the captive audience at was hungry for the hot item. “There were a lot of people there,” says Mumanachit “and so this project just made sense!”

 

All told, the 400 bracelets sold netted SquashSmarts approximately $600 – and there are plans to produce a more of the sold-out item for sale at future junior squash tournaments. “We’re thrilled by the results,” comments SquashSmarts Director Stephen Gregg. “and we are extremely grateful to Sandra and her family for conceiving and managing this whole project. Perhaps this kind of initiative might lead to more creative projects by young SquashSmarts fans down the road!”

 

For more information on the one-of-a-kind SquashSmarts star bracelet (available in small and large) please contact 215-895-4963 or email info@squashsmarts.org memo: star bracelets.

 

 

 

Waite Wows Crowd at Doubles Exhibition & Auction

12-2004

 

The key to doubles…partner selection! On December 9th, SquashSmarts paired with Cozen O’Connor, The Racquet Club of Philadelphia and Freeman’s Auction House for the 2nd annual Gary Waite Doubles Hardball Squash Exhibition and Live Auction.

 

A crowd of sixty, including fourteen SquashSmarts students, gathered Thursday evening at the oldest doubles squash court in the country to view four of the world’s most accomplished world hardball doubles players

 

International Squash Doubles Association (ISDA) founder and #1 Gary Waite (Toronto, CAN) paired with local hero and RCOP pro Rob Whitehouse (East Falls, PA). The talented two-some ultimately defeated their challengers which featured 8-time US National Champion Morris Clothier (New York, NY) and #5 ISDA professional Josh McDonald (New York, NY) by a margin of three to one.

 

Between breaks in play, Jonathan Freeman of Freeman’s Auction House (America’s oldest operating auction house) called a shot-gun style live auction featuring fine items from the Philadelphia sporting and fashion worlds.

 

Before the exhibition, Mr. Waite took time out to teach and share his skills, knowledge and passion for doubles squash with the eager children from SquashSmarts.

 

 

Exhibition Results

Waite / Whitehouse defeated Clothier / McDonald (3-1)

 

Auction Items (Winning Bid)

Philadelphia Cricket Club Golf Foursome ($410)

Philadelphia Eagles Box Seats ($350)

Harrow Sports Pacakage ($340)

Philadelphia Phillies Diamond Club Seats ($270)

Zinman Fur Safari Vest ($230)

 

Exhibition Sponsors

COZEN O’CONNOR

ZINMAN FUR

PHILADELPHIA CRICKET CLUB

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

HARROW SPORTS

SQUASHSMARTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

Exhibition Organizing Committee

Alex Luk, Verdi DiSesa, Colin Gray, Stephen Gregg, Mike Halpert, Thomas Harrity, David Kanthor, Edward Noll, LeAnne Lindsay, Andrew Purcell, AnneMarie Pyne, Peter Schreiber, Julie Williams

 

 

SquashSmarts Strategic Plan

09-2004

 

Learn more about the SquashSmarts program, our model and our vision. Click here.

 

 

 

Embrace, The Camp

08-2004

 

SquashSmarts inaugural Embrace Camp, America’s first-and-only youth camp to combine intensive squash instruction with community service, was a huge success. For information or a brochure, please contact info@squashsmarts.org.

 

 

 

SquashSmarts Appoints new Squash Director

07-2004

 

SquashSmarts is pleased to welcome David Kanthor as its new Squash Director.  David grew up in Rochester, NY and attended Haverford College where he played four years on its Men's Varsity Squash team.  He then was awarded a Masters Degree in community Planning from the University of Baltimore, with his course of study focused on community advocacy.  David will coordinate the community service programs to complement the Squash Director duties he will fill.

 

 

 

New Executive Director and Academic Director Named

05-2004

 

SquashSmarts is pleased to announce that Stephen Gregg has joined the organization as its new Executive Director and Julie Williams as its new Academic Director.

 

Gregg served the past four years as the Director of Junior Development for the United States Squash Racquets Association.  “We are thrilled and fortunate to recruit a talent like Steve” remarked Vincent  McGuinness, President of the SquashSmarts Board of Directors and a Senior Member at Cozen O’Connor law offices in Philadelphia. 

 

Gregg, a four-year varsity squash member of the NCAA Division 1 Trinity Squash Teams and an active member of the PSRA and the Racquet Club of Philadelphia, welcomes the new challenges directing SquashSmarts: “I look forward to guiding this program, which is well known in the Philadelphia community, to expanding and servicing more children in our area, and to forging new relationships with businesses and individuals in our region.  The opportunity this presents is both intriguing and exciting.  I was greatly impressed by the Board’s commitment to the program, and am anxious to carry on the outstanding tradition created by [former Executive Director] Julie Williams.”

 

SquashSmarts, currently based at Drexel University, is working with other local groups with plans to build an eight court facility in the Hunting Park section of Philadelphia.  Joining Gregg will be Williams, who was appointed the new Academic Director of the program.

 

Mr. Gregg can be contacted at steve.gregg@squashsmarts.org

 

 

 New SquashSmarts Center at Drexel!
06-2005

 

SquashSmarts and Drexel University partnered to create an academic-office-technology space in the Daskalakis Athletic Center where the program is currently held. One of Drexel’s six squash courts has been converted into a classroom to house six students and six tutors at individual study stations with computers. Office space for SquashSmarts’ staff is also included as part of the plan. We are seeking financial donations as well as donations of reference books and literature. Follow “News” here for the opening date of the SquashSmarts Center”.

 

 

The PSRA & SquashSmarts

03-2005

 

SquashSmarts thanks the Philadelphia Squash Racquets Association (PSRA) for hosting the Spring ’04 Fundraiser at the PSRA’s Awards Dinner and Doubles Finals. Held at the Philadelphia Country Club, SquashSmarts raised over $8,000 in one night!



News & Updates

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