Mid-Atlantic JCT Tiger Report 🐯🔥

The 2025 Mid-Atlantic JCT took place this past weekend in Virginia, with matches held across two top-class venues: The St. James and Episcopal High School. Both sites provided a great stage for three full days of competition, and our Tigers gave everything from start to finish.

Team Effort and Tiger Grit

We had 14 players in action across the age divisions, all showing focus, composure, and plenty of fight. The level of play was excellent, and the way the group carried themselves both on and off court reflected the strong culture we have built at Squash Tigers.

A huge thank-you to Coach Laurent and Coach Mazen, who each put in long 14-hour days supporting our players through warmups, matches, and debriefs. Their effort and attention to detail made a big difference. A warm welcome also to Coach Mazen, our new Princeton Director, who joined us for his first JCT weekend and connected quickly with players and families alike.

What Is a JCT?

For anyone newer to the circuit, the Junior Championship Tour (JCT) is the highest level of junior squash in the United States. Entry is earned through national ranking, and the events bring together the best young players from across the country. These weekends test everything from technical and tactical ability to concentration and composure.

For our players, they are the perfect environment to turn training into performance and to see how far their preparation has come.

Results and Highlights 🏆

By the end of the weekend, we recorded 6 quarterfinalists, 3 semifinalists, 2 finalists, and 1 champion. The numbers were impressive, but the real takeaway was how our players handled tough situations and stayed committed throughout the event.

• 🥇 Yiden — Boys U13 Champion

• Calm, precise, and focused, Yiden managed every stage of the draw with maturity and earned a well-deserved title.

• 🥈 Jude — Boys U17 Finalist

• Jude was athletic, aggressive, and determined across all rounds. His speed and physical presence made a big impact throughout the weekend.

• 🏅 Reghan — Girls U19 Semifinalist

• Reghan played with purpose and confidence, producing some of her best squash this season and earning a strong semifinal finish.

Other standout efforts included:

• Colten, who made yet another Boys U19 quarter and gave his usual 100%

• Kaitlyn, who fought through long, physical matches in GU17 to finish a well-earned 6th place.

• Faiz, who competed in Boys U15 and pushed the top seed hard in the quarters, coming away with valuable experience and growing confidence.

• Aalene, who scored one of the rating upsets of the weekend, winning her first-round consolation match with smart, attacking squash.

• Yidrew and David, who both earned solid wins that reflected clear progress in tactical awareness and match control.

• Shrikar, who competed in his first Boys U19 JCT, stepping into a higher division with confidence and proving he belongs there.

• Zushmalene, who finished a strong 9th in Girls U13, showing great energy and composure throughout the weekend.

• Riyanshi, who competed in Girls U11 before having to withdraw, is hopefully already on the improve and we're looking forward to getting her back on court soon.

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A Tough Moment for Jack 💪

Not everything went to plan. Jack, the winner of the first two JCTs of the season in Boys U19, was forced to withdraw in the second round due to injury. His results this fall have been outstanding, and his attitude continues to set the standard for others. We wish him a quick recovery and look forward to seeing him back stronger at the U.S. Open later this season.

The Story Beyond the Scores

Each JCT weekend tells more than the scoreboard can show. Between matches, our players supported one another, shared advice, and competed with intent. The atmosphere across the group was positive and professional, and the preparation shown by every player reflected the standards we aim for daily.

Composure, respect, and consistency were clear themes across the weekend. Those qualities build habits that last well beyond one tournament.

Looking Ahead 🐾

With the school squash season about to begin and the U.S. Open only six weeks away, this event serves as an ideal springboard. Training will now focus on sharper movement, tactical refinement, and maintaining physical and mental readiness through a busy stretch of play.

A great weekend behind us, bigger ones ahead.