Tabor Squash Shines on the International Stage

Tabor Academy’s squash program continues to make its mark around the world. This summer, current students, alumni, and incoming players showcased their talents at top global tournaments, competing against elite opponents and setting the tone for an exciting year ahead.

Seif El Gazzar ’26 earned a remarkable second-place finish at the Egyptian Junior Open in Cairo, a Gold-accredited tournament attracting elite local talent. Having aged up to the U19 division, Seif defeated the tournament’s #2 seed en route to the finals, including a thrilling semifinal victory that saw him clinch the decisive third game 13–11.

Seif’s standout performance was part of a strong summer for Tabor Squash. In Cairo, Alyssa Ho ’25 and Salma Hassan ’28 represented Canada at the World Junior Championships, facing the top U19 players from around the globe. They became just two of six Tabor students ever to qualify for this elite, World Squash Federation–sanctioned event, which is considered the junior equivalent of a world championship. Alyssa, competing in her third and final appearance, went 3–2 and followed this with a top 8 finish at the Hong Kong Junior Open, while Salma made her international debut, finishing 1–2 and gaining valuable experience at the highest level.

At the Junior Pan-American Games in Asunción, Paraguay, Tabor athletes continued to impress. Juan Jose Torres Lara ’24 of Colombia captured Gold in both the individual and men’s team categories, and Ana Margarita Quijano ’24, also of Colombia, won Bronze in women’s doubles. Luciana Castillo Barcena '25 of Peru reached the individuals quarterfinals and teamed up with her brother, Amaro Castillo Barcena ’28, to win Silver in mixed doubles.

Looking ahead, the incoming Class of 2029 promises to further strengthen the program. Alan Wang, Daniel Sealy, and Martin Mejia competed in top junior events across the globe this summer, bringing international experience and fresh talent to Tabor.

Tabor Squash alumni continue to shine on the collegiate and international stage. Juan Jose and Ana Margarita compete at the University of Virginia, Kendry Navas Perez ’25 plays for Connecticut College, Alyssa Ho is headed to Yale, and Luciana Castillo will join Drexel. Juan Jose has also made waves professionally, winning three PSA titles—Copa Brasile, Paraguay Open, and Guatemala Open—and currently ranking #112 in the world.

With current players like Seif and Salma, along with a strong incoming class, Tabor Squash enters the new school year with remarkable momentum. The program continues to demonstrate skill, dedication, and global impact—a legacy carried by current athletes, incoming talent, and alumni alike.