Both the men’s and women’s squash teams hope to build on the success of last year, when both teams competed in the National Team Championships Division C bracket.
Both squads are ranked 20th nationally in preseason polls.
The squads have warmed up for competition at October’s Bobcat Classic at Bates, and at the Del-Fuller Invitational in November. 
“We have had two informal tournaments so far, they have served as good warm-ups for us,” said Will Fantini ’13. “Both were very encouraging and reflective of how hard we have all worked in our offseason.”
The men’s and women’s squads both  added depth to their rosters in the offseason, bringing in three and six first years, respectively. 
“Last year we took on six recruits, so we already have a pretty substantial foundation,’” said captain Elizabeth Shetman ’13. “We brought in six first years again this season and I am optimistic because I can see the improvement already.”
Action resumes on December 5 at Dartmouth College, where the teams will compete against Dartmouth and Franklin & Marshall.
Official league play begins the weekend of January 5, when the squads will face Middlebury and Williams.
“We are very excited to get the season underway. We have two girls returning to the team after semesters abroad who will be welcome additions,” said Shetman.
Fantini is also very optimistic about the coming season.
“Williams and Middlebury are both strong sides, we will have to prepare and show well. I am confident we can get the results we want if we play to our potential.”
Both squads hope to break into the National Team Championship Division B bracket. Shetman says she is enthusiastic about the new team and ready for the challenge.
“It would be fantastic to break into the National B bracket this year,” she said. “We were at the top of the C division last year and I believe it is a very achievable goal for us. It depends on the work and effort we put in on and off the court, but I know if we keep pushing we can do it.”