Bryn Mawr educator Susan Gross launched the nation’s first public school squash team at Harriton High School nearly two decades ago, starting a quiet revolution that would help democratize a sport long reserved for the elite, writes J.F. Pirro for the Main Line Today.
Gross was introduced to squash through her son, Edward, who attended a Haverford College summer Julian Krinsky tennis camp. The family joined the Cynwyd Club for his practice. When Gross’ youngest daughter, Amy, showed exceptional talent and ranked first nationwide in her age group, she wanted to join a team, which led her mother to suggest the idea of public-school squash.
In 1995, she approached Harriton’s athletic director and found an ally in Andrew Slater, then the Cynwyd Club’s pro, who generously opened the courts for after-school play and coaching. Harriton-Lower Merion began as the only public team, sending 14 members to the first high school nationals 22 years ago. Today, the program has grown to include B and C squads and more than 50 kids.
Thanks in major part to her efforts, 50 of the 200 varsity squads in 13 divisions at the U.S. High School Squash Championships will now come from public schools.
Read more about Susan Gross in the Main Line Today.
