Squashing Rivalries at the U.S. Junior Open by Mia Ye

This year, the 2025 U.S. Junior Open was a huge event, with 997 junior squash players from 45 different countries competing across six venues throughout Philadelphia from December 20-23. The four-day tournament was held across six venues: the Arlen Specter US Squash Center, Penn Squash Center, Drexel University’s Kline & Specter Squash Center, Philadelphia Cricket Club, Springside Chestnut Hill and Springside Chestnut Hill Vare. Ten champions from U.S, Canada, Egypt and Malaysia were crowned in boys’ and girls’ U11, U13, U15, U17 and U19 divisions.

This was my third consecutive year attending this prestigious tournament. I played four matches against talented players from Guatemala, Peru, U.S, and Canada. At the U.S. Junior Open, it is traditional to exchange tee shirts with international players. I exchanged tee shirts with my opponent from Peru. This tradition fosters a unique cultural exchange among junior squash players from around the world during the event. Overall, I really enjoyed competing against these players, watching top notch matches, and cheering for my friends.