Get ready for some high-energy squash action! The Colby College Men's and Women's Squash teams are hitting the ground running, kicking off their 2025-26 season with a road trip that promises fierce competition and exciting potential. But the question is: can they live up to the hype and climb even higher in the rankings?
On Saturday, November 15th, the Mules will travel to Medford, Massachusetts, for a showdown against Columbia University, hosted by Tufts. It's been a long time coming – the last time Colby and Columbia faced off was back in 2011! This makes the match even more intriguing, as both teams have undoubtedly evolved significantly since then. What strategies will they bring to the table after all these years?
Leading the charge for Colby Squash is none other than Chris Abplanalp, who's entering his eighth season with the Mules. His experience and guidance will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.
"We're building on real momentum," Abplanalp confidently stated. "Last season, we made a significant jump in the rankings, with both teams continuing to take meaningful steps forward. The lineup features a strong mix of returning experience alongside newcomers who are ready to contribute right away. This group shows up every day with genuine commitment and hunger to improve, eager to represent Colby at a high level. We've put together a challenging schedule this fall, and we're excited to compete." But here's where it gets controversial... Can this blend of seasoned players and fresh talent truly propel them to the top, or will the pressure of a challenging schedule prove to be too much?
The Women's team enters the 2025-26 campaign ranked 17th, fueled by a solid 6-10 overall record from last season. Leading the charge is Laavanya Kugan, a force to be reckoned with. Kugan dominated last year with an impressive 11-6 individual record, including a stellar 10-3 record in the top spot for the Mules. She was also the lone Colby women's player to compete in CSA Individuals last season. Other key returning players include Abhisheka David ('26), who boasts a 9-7 individual record playing primarily in the two spot (with a 7-6 record there specifically), and Nathalie Sim ('27), who had an impressive 7-2 record, including a 6-1 run at the three spot. A group of four seniors – David, Aileen Dominguez, Kugan, and Amanda Miller – will provide leadership and experience, mentoring a group of four eager first-years. How will this blend of experienced veterans and new blood impact the team's dynamics and performance?
The Men's team, ranked 20th, is coming off a strong 12-8 overall record and a second consecutive appearance in the NESCAC semifinals. Top returners include Seif Ashraf ('27), who finished with a 13-7 overall record while primarily playing in the two spot; Youssef Mostafa ('26), who had an impressive 11-5 record playing mostly in the four position; and Carlos Zendejas ('27), who dominated with a 12-3 individual record, also playing primarily in the four spot. A trio of seniors – Sebastian Campos, Mostafa, and Oliver Riordan – will provide crucial leadership, guiding a group of four first-years. And this is the part most people miss... The men's team has proven they can make it to the NESCAC semifinals, but can they finally break through and contend for the championship this year?
Want to track the Mules' progress throughout the season? You can follow both the Men's and Women's teams using the men's and women's schedule tabs on the Colby Athletics website to see when Colby Squash might be coming to a location near you. Let's pack the stands and show our support!
For the latest CSA College Squash Rankings, CLICK HERE!
So, what do you think? Can Colby Squash surpass expectations this season? Which team, men's or women's, do you believe has the best chance of making a deep run in the playoffs? Share your predictions and insights in the comments below!
