Q&A; with new squash coach Amy Gross

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, One thing is on everyone’s mind: squash.

And not just the vegetable.

The men’s and women’s squash teams are hoping to get their respective seasons off to a good start as they both face Ivy League rival Cornell at Ringe Courts on Saturday.

In addition to seven freshmen men and the three first-year women, the team welcomes new assistant coach Amy Gross, who was hired in mid-October.

The Daily Pennsylvanian sat down with coach Gross to talk about her past and the season to come.

Daily Pennsylvanian: What are the expectations for the upcoming squash seasons? Amy Gross: We recently had a preseason Ivy League tournament up in New Haven, Conn., which is a good indication of where the teams rank. The women’s team finished third — which we were happy about — and the men’s team finished sixth. We want our student-athletes to reach their fullest potential and have a great season.

DP: What are the difficulties that the coaches encounter considering there are only three coaches total for both the men’s and women’s teams?

AG: This is our first year doing the dual coach system and so far it has worked positively. Obviously overseeing both programs means more responsibility. We have our hands full, but it is a great opportunity to improve the program. So we’re excited.

DP: When did you start playing squash, and how did you get started?

AG: I started playing squash when I was nine years old. I grew up in a suburb of Philadelphia, and my older brother played for the Haverford School, and he sparked my interest to play the sport.

DP: Why did you choose to coach at Penn?

AG: I have a history here. I grew up around here. I played tennis as well in high school, and we would play at the Levy Tennis Pavilion. I went to Yale for my undergraduate, but I grew up here — this is my home, so it is nice to be back.

DP: Considering that you’re from Philadelphia, are you a Philly sports fan?

AG: Yeah. I’m a big Eagles and Phillies fan. I mean, you have to be if you’re from the city.

DP: How has your time at Penn been so far?

AG: I have only been here for a month, but it has been great. It has been busy but it has also been really exciting and a lot of fun, and I am looking forward to trying to contribute positively to both teams.

DP: What has been the best part?

AG: There are so many positives. It is great to be on a college campus again and to be around student-athletes that are motivated. I love being in this environment where I get to help others improve and build their skills.

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.