During the CSA@100 Cocktail Reception held last evening at the 2024 CSA National Collegiate Team Championships, Harvard’s Marina Stefanoni and Cornell’s Veer Chotrani earned the CSA’s most prestigious senior career awards – the Betty Richey Award and the Skillman Award.
The Betty Richey Award presented by the Aziz Family is given annually to the women’s college squash player who best exemplifies the ideals of squash in her love of and devotion to the game, her strong sense of fairness, and her excellence of play and leadership. Last evening, 2009 Betty Richey Recipient Pamela Anckermann of Mount Holyoke College bestowed the 2024 Betty Richey Award.
The Skillman Award is given annually to a senior men’s squash player who has demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship during his entire college career while maintaining a high level of play. This year, 1981 Skillman Recipient John Nimick of Princeton University presented the 2024 Skillman Award.
All six finalists were present surrounded by coaches, family and teammates cheering on and celebrating these incredible individuals. “Last night’s ceremony was a vivid reminder of what makes college squash so unique and inspiring. To stand in the presence of such exceptional finalists, cheered on by a crowd filled with passion and support, really brought home the essence of what these awards stand for. Honoring Marina Stefanoni and Veer Chotrani, along with all the finalists, was not just about their achievements on the court but also about celebrating the respect, fairness, and camaraderie they bring to the sport. It’s a proud moment for our community to recognize and celebrate these special players” Interim League Commissioner, Harry Smith, comments.
Marina Stefanoni, Harvard University
2024 Betty Richey Recipient
Earning consistent First-Team All-America and First-Team All-Ivy honors, competing in the semifinals twice at the National Collegiate Individual Championships, Stefanoni will leave a memorable mark in Harvard’s program and the College Squash Association.
Her coaches, her competitors, and the college squash community laud her not only for her squash achievements but for her exemplary attitude, respect for opponents, and leadership, both on and off the court. Elected co-captain by her peers and a CSA Scholar-Athlete, Marina excels in academics and sportsmanship. She’s led Harvard to two national titles and three Ivy championships, showcasing her as a model of dedication and team spirit.
Veer Chotrani, Harvard University
2024 Skillman Recipient
Veer is a 3x First Team All-American and 3x All-Ivy, Ivy League Rookie of the Year, a quarter-finalist at the Individual Championship in 2022 and a Semi-Finalist in 2023 and these accolades make him one of the most successful men’s squash players in Cornell University history. Holding the #1 position throughout his tenure, Veer has notched 30 wins, showcasing his dominance and resilience on the court.
His dedication extends beyond personal achievement, embodying the spirit of fair play and commitment to team growth. Veer’s positive influence is felt across the program, where he’s celebrated for his supportive nature and ability to inspire his peers.
Congratulations to the 2024 Betty Richey and Skillman Recipients Marina Stefanoni and Veer Chotrani and all the finalists, Meagan Best, Wen Li Lai, Mohamed Sharaf and Siow Yee Xian.
