Medford, MA — Belkys Velez has been named head coach of the Tufts women’s squash team. Velez served as assistant coach for both Jumbos squads during the 2009-2010 season.
Velez will take over from Doug Eng, who has been coordinating the women’s program on a temporary basis. Eng will continue to coach the men’s squash team as well as the men’s tennis team.
Velez, one of the top players from her native Ecuador, plays on the WISPA tour and has been ranked as high as 84th in the world. She has coached in Ecuador and at Newton Country Day, the Maugus Club, and SquashBusters.
With only three players from the bottom of the ladder graduating, the Tufts women should be able to build on their improvement from last season with Velez’s guidance. Coming into February, the Jumbos had just one win and eleven losses. They finished the season by winning five of their last nine matches, including two victories at the Women’s National Team Championships (Howe Cup), enough to secure second place in the Epps Cup (“D” Division).
“We are very excited to be able to add Belkys Velez to our coaching staff,” Tufts Athletic Director Bill Gehling said in a press release. “She brings a wealth of experience in the game along with a tremendous work ethic and excellent team building and communication skills. She will be a wonderful addition to the Tufts athletics community.”
