Courtesy of UR Athletics
The UR squash team set a record by having four All-Americans in a single season. As the only team to have four players make the list, the Jackets’ honored seniors Andres Duany and Adam Perkiomaki as well as freshman Faraz Khan and Neil Cordell. Duany ranked first this season and has amassed a 47-25 career record. He also played in three Pool (A) Tournaments at the CSA Individual Championships. The Lima, Peru native ended this season as the seventh-ranked collegiate squash player.
What is your major?
I am majoring in economics and business strategies and minoring in organizational psychology.
Why did you choose UR?
UR seemed to be the perfect choice since it had the perfect balance between great academics and an exciting squash program. The squash coach, Martin Heath, formerly ranked fourth in the world, was a big part of the reason why I ended up here. He has a great reputation in the squash world, and he certainly presented me the option of going. After doing some research about the programs, curricula, and reputation of the school, I was convinced that UR was the right place to be.
How did you get your start in squash?
I started when I was 10-years old since I felt like I wanted to play some racket sport. My dad use to play it, and he encouraged me to try. At this point, soccer was my main sport, but after a couple of years playing, squash became addictive. I was improving fast, but I wanted to be better, so I dedicated more of my time to the sport. Once you get started with squash, you won’t be able to leave it.
Are there any particular moments in your collegiate career that stick out?
Definitely one of the best moments was playing the quarter final against Ali Farag, former British Junior Open Champion and perhaps one of the best young players in the world. I managed to take the first game, and I certainly gave a big fight. Two weeks before that match, Farag had a really close one with the world number 30, to give you a a sense of the level. It is encouraging to think that pro players are not that far from the top college players, and with dedication, it’s possible to take your game to the next level.
How does it feel to be a first team All-American?
It feels really incredible, especially since the level of college squash during this season was extraordinary. There were so many great players in the draw, including some of the top American players and some former world junior champions. Being in the first team All-American really encourages me to keep working hard to become the best I can be.
What are your goals for after graduation?
I will be moving to Los Angeles to work for the Peru Trade Office, an international mission of the Peruvian government to promote trade and investments between Peru and the state of California. I would love to keep playing squash and perhaps try on the Pro Tour, but the level of squash in LA is just developing, and there won’t be much exposure to great players and tournaments. Hopefully, I’ll be able to keep myself fit and possibly represent Peru in some international competitions.
Woodworth is a member of the class of 2015.
