In a highly anticipated matchup between two closely ranked NESCAC teams, #18 Bowdoin College earns an impressive 8-1 victory over #19 Wesleyan University in this week’s CSA Women’s Match of the Week. The contest, held on Tuesday, January 7, in Middletown, Connecticut, added another chapter to the storied rivalry that has spanned nearly five decades. Despite the scoreline, several matches came down to the wire, showcasing the competitive spirit on both sides.
Bowdoin set the tone early in the first round of matches. Emma Kate Watts-Roy securing a four-game win at #1 and freshman Amelie Matuch taking a decisive three-game victory at #6. The standout performance in the opening round came from Elizabeth Kennedy, another freshman, who battled through five tight games to clinch the win at #9, giving Bowdoin a 3-0 lead.
In the second round, Bowdoin continued their strong momentum. Amanda Cowhey prevailed in four games at #2, and Kira Gwadry swept her opponent in three games at #5 to clinch the match for Bowdoin. Wesleyan’s lone victory came from Portia Pliam, who displayed grit and determination in a five-game thriller at #8.
Although the team result already decided, the final round of matches still brought excitement and high-level squash. Bowdoin added three more wins, with Darcy Weber earning a four-game victory at #3 and Clare Collins and Linley Grosman each claiming three-game wins at #4 and #7, respectively.
Bowdoin Head Coach Brendan McClintick praised his team’s depth and poise. “When you go to play Wesleyan, you know you’re going to face a consistent and deep team every year,” McClintick said. “For me, the start we had really set the tone. Our first three on—Emma Watts-Roy (senior), Amelie Matuch (freshman), and Ellie Kennedy (freshman)—pulled through with important wins. I am extremely proud of the maturity they all displayed as they played patient and measured squash.”
McClintick highlighted the contributions of Bowdoin’s freshman class, who were instrumental in securing the victory. “Our freshman class really made big moves,” he added. “It really is a special group of young women who know the value of supporting each other in their pursuit of excellence.”
The Polar Bears now turn their attention to upcoming matches against William Smith and St. Lawrence, followed by a trio of exciting NESCAC matchups at home. Meanwhile, Wesleyan will regroup as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the competitive NESCAC landscape.
