Elizabeth College Squash Team Makes Impressive Debut at National Championships
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Elizabeth College’s squash team has secured second place at the 2025 National Schools Squash Championships, marking a significant milestone for the school’s emerging athletic program.
An Impressive Journey to the Finals
The young squad, comprising Leo Carpenter, Marcus Chanter, Rocco Elliott, Arthur Leonard, and Hamish McLellan, competed against top-tier schools from across the United Kingdom at the prestigious Edgbaston Priory venue in Birmingham. Their journey through the tournament was nothing short of impressive, particularly for a team in its first year of national competition.
The team’s path to the finals was marked by strategic victories. An opening 4-1 win against Aylesbury Grammar School set a strong tone, followed by a nail-biting 3-2 triumph over Yorkshire’s Shelley College. These early matches demonstrated the team’s resilience and technical prowess.
A Hard-Fought Championship Final
In the championship final, they faced Harrow School, a long-established institution with a rich sporting history. Despite ultimately losing 4-1, Arthur Leonard’s individual victory highlighted the team’s potential and fighting spirit.
Coach and Team’s Perspective
Martin Watts, the squash development officer, emphasized the significance of their achievement. “Finishing second nationally in our first year is a fantastic accomplishment,” Watts noted, underscoring the team’s exceptional performance.
Bright Future Ahead
What makes this result particularly promising is the team’s youth. With all players having at least another year in their age group, Elizabeth College’s squash program appears to be building a strong foundation for future success.
This performance not only represents a personal triumph for the athletes but also signals Elizabeth College’s emergence as a competitive force in school-level squash.