By Abby Whelan, Banner Staff

From winning 15 consecutive EIL Championships to their iconic Instagram account, Winsor Squash’s reputation speaks for itself. A core member of this team is Kate Drachman ’25, who has been playing squash at Winsor since Class II and has served as captain for the past two seasons. The Banner was lucky enough to talk to Kate about her experience playing squash and leading such an exciting and dominant team.  

How did you get into playing squash?

When I came to Winsor in [Class I], I knew I would want to join the squash team in [Class II]. I had never played before, so I started training with our coach in her clinics and programs at Winsor. I tried out for the team for the first time in [Class II], and I made JV2! I have been playing ever since! 

What is the best part about being on the Winsor Squash team?

My favorite part about being on the squash team is definitely my teammates. Even though squash is a pretty individual sport, we have a great team with so much spirit and support. We always have so much fun at our team dinners (we love to decorate cookies!), and everyone goes crazy for Senior Day. All of that team bonding really makes the sport so much more fun because we are all super close. 

What is your favorite memory of playing squash?

Competing at the New England and national tournaments is always a highlight of my season. It is so much fun to travel with the team and stay overnight with everyone. We know the girls on the other teams because squash is a pretty small circle, so it’s like playing against friends you haven’t seen in a while. At the same time, those matches are our most challenging matches of the season, so it’s a lot of fun but also a lot of hard work. 

What is the most challenging part of playing squash?

I would say the most challenging part about squash is the fact that it is more of an individual sport. You are on the court alone, so you need to coach yourself during games and constantly analyze and improve how you are playing. 

What advice would you give to a Lower Schooler about joining the team?

I would definitely encourage Lower Schoolers to try out! I started playing squash back in [Class II]. This is my seventh year playing, and I love it! Even if this is your first time playing, it is a lot of fun and a great way to make friends. Also, I would say just keep at it and keep playing. Practice makes progress, and if you keep working hard, you will definitely see improvement!  

Thank you so much to Kate for taking the time to talk to us. The Banner wishes luck to Kate and the entire Winsor Squash Team for their upcoming matches at New Englands and Nationals!

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity. ☐ 

Drachman ’25 Playing Squash, photo from Adam Richins