Ricardo Lopez, a senior from University of Rochester, has won the 2019 College Squash Association (CSA) John Skillman Award – the most significant men’s individual honor granted by the CSA.
The Skillman Award is named for John Skillman, the legendary Yale coach of 41 years, who compiled a 451-77 record and 16 national titles. Lopez is the third Rochester player to receive the award, following in the footsteps of Benjamin Fischer in 2012 and Ryosei Kobayashi in 2017.
Ricardo Lopez has compiled a 34-19 record at Rochester, playing in positions 1-4 on the ladder during the Yellowjackets’ most consistent and successful run of form in the team’s history. In clinching Rochester’s highest seed ever entering the Men’s Team National Championships, Lopez – a 2-time First Team All-Liberty League Selection – has co-captained the team, leading by example with commitment and energy.
Rochester Head Coach Martin Heath praises Lopez for his grit, determination, and gracious presence of mind: “Ricky has permanent scars on his knees, elbows and knuckles that open up almost every time he plays squash. The unbelievable commitment Ricky shows on the squash court is only matched by the grace and fairness in which Ricky operates. A natural fighter, Ricky has the ability to control his emotions, make gracious decisions under pressure and represent himself and his team in the best possible way as has been witnessed by the players and coaches in CSA over the past few seasons.”
