Steele ’14 Named Finalist for Squash Association Award

John Steele ’14 was named one of three finalists for the 2014 Men’s College Squash Association’s Skillman Award. The Skillman Award is given annually to a senior men’s squash player who has demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship during his entire college career. This award is named for former Yale coach John Skillman, who led the Bulldogs to multiple national titles in over 40 years leading the team.

Players are evaluated based on their on-court poise and demeanor, skill level and ability in the game of squash, team play, contributions to intercollegiate squash, leadership, and cooperation with players, coaches, and tournament officials. The Award Chair and the Executive Committee select the winner at the National Team Championships.

Upon arriving at Wesleyan, Steele became a staple at the top of the Cardinals’ line-up. The economics and East Asian studies double major earned numerous NESCAC Conference honors, including Rookie of the Year (2011), First-Team All NESCAC (2011, 2012 and 2013), NESCAC All-Sportsmanship (2012 and 2013), and All-Academic (2012 and 2013). The Wesleyan co-captain and 2013 CSA Scholar Athlete is well known for his calm demeanor and sportsmanship.

“John has acquired many followers over his four years of play, not just for his impressive squash ability, but for his commitment to play every ball if he can possibly get around his opponent or swing his racket,” said Wesleyan Head Coach Shona Kerr. “John has been an incredible example to the men and women squash players at Wesleyan and has set a precedent of how we conduct ourselves.”

Read more about the award and other award winners here.