Northampton, MA — In their first season after downgrading the program from varsity to club, Smith College hired a new coach, Randima Joubert, midway through the season. Joubert, who is no stranger to Seven Sisters schools having played at the top of the Mount Holyoke line-up, is excited to lead the Pioneers’ team for a full season. She will have her work to do. Smith graduated six players from last season’s team championships. Yet, with the return of two of their top three players and the expectation of two players fighting for spots near the top of the ladder, things may be looking up. Smith has always been known for teaching squash to newcomers. Since the Wetzel Award began in 1999, Smith has had four player earn the honor of being named the best player to learn squash in college. Last season’s #3, Leah Jeon, began playing squash in college and could be a nominee for the award this season. Look for the Pioneers to move higher in the E Division this season.
2015-2016 SEASON RECAP
Season Record: 4-17
Final Ranking: 41
Team Championships: 9th in the E Division
By the Numbers (From US Squash): 5-4 Matches Won: 3 of 3… Top 3 Win%: .143… Middle 3 Win%: .111… Lower 3 Win%: .143…
2016-2017 SEASON PREVIEW
Program Status: Club
Head Coach: Randima Joubert
Returning Players from Team Championships: 1. Geena Choo (2017); 3. Leah Jeon (2017); 8. Yvie Yao (December 2016); 10. Beverly Lipsey (2018); 11. Stephanie Campbell (2018);
Graduated/Non-Returning Players from Team Championships: 2. Carly Melillo (2016 – Seven Sisters All-Tournament Team); 4. Jin Lee (2016); 5. Gracie Maull (2016); 6. Caroline Previte (2018); 7. Julia Yun (2016); 9. Leslie Hillsamer (2016);
Additions to the 2016-2017 Roster:
- Expected to play in the top 3: Josephine Surer and Eva Morgenstein
- Expected to play in the bottom 3: Natalia Perkins and Melissa Ertman
Captains: Geena Choo, Leah Jeon, and Eva Morgenstein
Team Goals: To finish the season ranked in the top-40
Key Matches: Northeastern University
To read other team previews, please visit the 2016-2017 College Squash Season Previews page.
