When Kristin Lange made her decision to come to Penn, she already knew that her impact on the squash team would be lasting.
The casual observer could be excused for not knowing what to expect from the Woodinville, Wash. freshman. But she has proven she is one of the best squash players in the country.
Not only did Lange win the Under-19 U.S. Junior Squash Open in December, but she also managed to move up to the No. 1 spot on the now-No. 1 women's team.
"Kristen is a very talented and hardworking player," women's squash coach Jack Wyant said. "That is a pretty unique combination."
Lange has the opportunity to reach her goals because her traits are those of a "top athlete," according to Wyant.
For one, she despises losing.
The natural high and rush of adrenaline, Lange says, is what keeps her loving squash. Not only does she understand the sport well for such a young athlete, but she is separated from the pack by her intensity during matches.
Off the court, she takes a different perspective.
"When you play squash, you have such a good time and you make so many good friends," Lange said. "It is so much fun to play the game. You can even go out there by yourself and play solo, or play in a match. It is very satisfying."
And yet her intensity has allowed her to become, as Wyant calls her, an expert in the area of squash. Competitive and determined by nature, Lange intends to lead the team to a top national finish. And competing on a team made up of some of the best girls in the country has helped her skills, even as a newcomer to the college game.
"She is a great shot-maker and is very explosive," said Wyant. "She has got a really good first step. She already has the shots that are more difficult to hit - the attacking shots - which is not common for younger players."
In high school, she was the U.S. Junior Open Champion for her age group, and is now on her way to becoming one of the top national competitors. According to Wyant, Lange is improving tremendously as time goes by in competition and practice.
Winning the U.S. Junior Open was a stepping stone in her journey to becoming a professional squash player. It also gave fuel to her aspirations of playing for the U.S. national team and traveling the world as a sponsored squash player.
Lange's lofty ambitions are partially a result of the support and coaching she has received throughout her life.
"My coach pushes me so hard, and is so supportive, along with the rest of the team," Lange said. "The team is a great group of girls to work with and all the freshmen is a big network of support."
As for the team, the addition of Lange has improved the lineup but also added another personality into the mix.
"We are just a big mix of different people and personalities," Lange said. "Everyone brings something special to build a strong bond and make a successful team."
She wouldn't settle for anything less.
