For Griffin Calhoun ’26, squash was not something he fell in love with overnight. He was originally introduced to the sport through his mom, who played in college, and his brother, Leighton Calhoun ’25, who was heavily invested in the game. Everything changed when Griffin arrived at Belmont Hill. Each year, his commitment and work ethic grew. After being cut from the varsity team in Form II, he didn’t use it as discouragement, but rather as motivation for the following season. Now, as captain of the team, Griffin sees his role as more than just a title. He believes that leading by example and setting a standard for younger players through hard work and focus are key to being an effective captain.
The squash program at Belmont Hill has been extremely successful, winning 21 ISL titles and finishing 11th in the country as a team last year. Griffin credits much of that success to the number of returning players each season, which has allowed the team to develop into a tight-knit, winning group. However, last year the team lost four of its top seven players. This created new challenges not only for Griffin but for the team as a whole, with many new members stepping into larger roles. When asked how the team could overcome these challenges, Griffin said, “The best way to get better is day by day, putting in effort at every practice, and the results will follow.”
Throughout his Belmont Hill squash career, Griffin says the most influential person in his development has been Coach Brownell. “Coach holds every player to a higher standard, no matter what,” Griffin said. “Whether you’re the best player on the team or the worst, Coach has high expectations for you, and his tough-love coaching works very well, especially with the younger players.”
So far this season, the younger players have played huge roles in the team’s success. Leo Tratz ’31 picked up a decisive win to help beat Nobles 4-3 in the Jackson Tournament, and Adam Ahmed ’29 won a crucial match against Groton in another 4-3 victory. Colton Jacobs ’27, who has been on the team for the past four years, said, “Griffin’s ability to bring composure and seriousness to every game and practice, while still being a fun person to be around, is very impressive.” Leo Tratz ’31 also commented on how Griffin has helped him find success not just on the court, but in adjusting to the rigorous Belmont Hill schedule.
As Griffin prepares to continue his squash career at Middlebury College, the legacy he leaves behind at Belmont Hill will be remembered for more than just wins and titles. From being cut in eighth grade to leading one of the top programs in the ISL as captain, Griffin has set the standard through resilience, discipline, and daily commitment to a standard that will continue to shape the program long after he graduates.
