The College Squash Association is proud to announce Emma Kate Watts-Roy of Bowdoin College as the recipient of the 2025 Ann Wetzel Award, presented annually to honor the senior women’s player who has shown the greatest level of improvement over her collegiate career.
Named in honor of Ann Wetzel, the 1964 national champion and the founder of the University of Pennsylvania women’s varsity squash program, the award celebrates outstanding technical growth, grit, and unwavering love for the game. Recipients are recognized for consistent poise, progress and positivity on court.
Emma Kate’s development at Bowdoin has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over four years, she transformed into a top-of-the-ladder competitor and a respected team leader. A string of accolades marks her upward trajectory: three-time Second Team All-NESCAC selection, First Team selection as a senior, and one of only eight student-athletes in the conference to earn All-NESCAC, All-Sportsmanship, and All-Academic honors in the same year.
Nominated and voted on by coaches across the league, Emma Kate emerged as this year’s recipient through the respect and admiration of those who witnessed her growth firsthand.
Reflecting on her journey, Emma shared:
“I am so honored to receive this award. This sport is so special, and I think my passion and love for it has led me to where I am today. Playing alongside a group of such positive, kind, gritty, and hardworking ladies has made my four years the best I could have imagined. From my sister and I being the only girls growing up in Kentucky playing squash, to having the honor of playing 1 and leading the team these past few years, I have endless gratitude for the support my family and coaches have given me. The Bowdoin Squash team cares about players as people, enabling me to cultivate lifelong friendships that I am forever grateful for. Go U Bears!”
Bowdoin head coach Brendan McClintick echoed those sentiments:
“We are all so proud of Emma and this award is well-deserved. Her growth over four years has been exceptional—from a quiet and reserved first-year to a confident and vocal senior. She’s been a captain since her sophomore year, learning from the leaders before her and carving out her own legacy. Her eagerness to learn and compete propelled her development, and she pioneered the ‘Grit, Gratitude, Gains’ mindset that defines our team. She truly embodies what it means to be a Polar Bear.”
Emma Kate Watts-Roy’s journey is a shining example of what the Wetzel Award represents: dedication, resilience, and a deep love for the game. The CSA congratulates her on this well-earned recognition.
