Women’s Squash National Champions: Another Year, Another Title

Sarah Zahoor ’26

Staff Writer

Entering the 2025 CSA National Champions as the undisputed top seed and defending Howe Cup champions, Trinity College Women’s Squash arrived ready to win. Warming up for the tournament, the Bantams breezed past Cornell University in the quarterfinals with a 8-1 victory that served as a caution sign to every opponent in their path. 

The semifinals were simply another showcase of Trinity’s effortless prowess, dismantling the fifth-seeded University of Pennsylvania in a ruthless 9-0 sweep. It was clear no one was ready to take on the Lady Bants’ relentless aggression and undeniable skill. The finals against Harvard was an anticipated showdown – although the term “showdown” is rather generous, considering Trinity clamped Harvard all season. In the final matchup, everyone waited for Réunionesse junior Kara Lincou ’26 to seal the victory in straight games, ultimately securing back-to-back national titles, leaving no doubt about Trinity’s throne in collegiate squash. Stellar performances from Hungarian junior Hannah Chukwu ’26 and senior Lulu Palacios Benitez ’25 from Paraguay helped pave the way for the Bantam’s victory over their buddy, John Harvard. The Bantams left Philadelphia with unwavering confidence and ridiculously untouchable. 

Ending the season with an unmatched 15-1 record, the Bantams didn’t just solidify their place at the top of the food chain – they made it clear no one else comes close to the crown. Star players for the Bantams this season include Egyptian co-captain Jana Safy ’25, Egyptian co-captain Janna El Ashmawy ’25 and Egyptian senior Malak Ashraf Kaamal ’25 all showcasing well deserved and well earned conceit. “Winning our second national championship in a row is an incredible feeling, especially after the adversity we faced throughout the season,” says El Ashmawy ‘25. “From sickness to injuries, we had our fair share of challenges, but we always found a way to push forward.” 

This roster is so crowded with athletes that pack both natural skill and unparalleled drive, other teams can only dream of reaching this level of excellence. As for the future, Trinity Women’s Squash has no choice but to continue its dynasty, challenging any and all those silly enough to step onto the court. 

Trinity College Men’s Squash competed fiercely among the nation’s elite teams in the 2025 CSA Potter Cup. Entering the tournament at the fourth seed, Trinity opened the quarterfinals with a strong 6-3 performance against fifth-seeded University of Virginia, emerging victorious with both strategic gameplay and teamwork. 

However, the semifinals presented a tougher challenge for Trinity as they faced the top-seeded and defending champions University of Pennsylvania. Penn showcased their dominance early, sweeping all matches and ultimately defeating the Bantams 9-0. Despite this setback, Trinity displayed significant talent and strategy, with dedication and perseverance oozing from both Joachim Chuah ’26 and Huzaifa Ibrahim ’28 in their intense 3-2 matches. 

Chuah, Benedek Takacs ’26, Danial Izham ’25 and Marwan El Borolossey ’25 have all been key players for Trinity this season, consistently delivering strong performances and significantly contributing to the team’s stellar 17-2 record heading into nationals. Trinity had secured its 18th consecutive NESCAC championship in early February. Looking ahead, Trinity Men’s Squash remains optimistic and driven, leveraging their strong roster under seasoned coaches as they work to return stronger and reclaim their position among the top contenders next season.