One of the most accomplished U.S. Naval Academy alumni during the past half-century, and the Supreme Allied Commander at NATO from 2009-13, Admiral James Stavridis credits much of his success --- during both his 37-year career year in the Navy and subsequently, first as the Dean of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University from 2013-18, and later in his current position as a partner and the Vice Chair of Global Affairs at the Carlyle Group, a large international finance firm --- to the four years (from 1972-76) that he spent as a member of Navy’s top-five ranked squash team. Although Stavridis, who had played in a number of regional junior tennis tournaments during his high school years in his native Arizona, had never touched a squash racquet prior to entering the Naval Academy, Bobby Bayliss, Navy’s head tennis coach, quickly perceived that Stavridis’s foremost athletic traits --- foot-speed, hand-eye coordination and a good slice on both sides --- were better suited to squash (although Stavridis also lettered on Navy’s tennis teams) and connected him with the Academy’s legendary squash coach, Art Potter, who would become a major figure in Stavridis’s life.

Olivia Weaver (née Fiechter) stands as a symbol of excellence in squash and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes. A dominant force at Princeton University, Weaver was a four-time All-America and All-Ivy honoree, leading the Tigers as their #1 player. Her collegiate success laid the foundation for an extraordinary professional career. As the current U.S. Champion, Weaver has etched her name in the history books as only the second U.S.-born player to break into the world’s top five rankings. This achievement reflects her relentless dedication and exceptional talent on the global stage. Weaver’s journey from collegiate star to international icon underscores her commitment to excellence. She continues to elevate the profile of squash in the United States, representing her country with distinction in premier competitions. Her inspiring story serves as a testament to the heights that can be reached with determination, skill, and a passion for the game.