Hazell came to Shipley after playing and working at the highest level of squash and racquet sports. He was the ten-year world doubles champion in racquets, the game from which squash derives. Hazell also taught squash, tennis, and racquets in private schools in England for ten years before working at the Merion Country Club as the assistant professional.

At Shipley, Shannon has worked at developing a very young girls’ squash program into a contender in the Independent League for MASA (Mid- Atlantic Squash Association). Hazell also helps train the boys’ and girls’ tennis programs at Shipley.

Coach Hazell credits his recent success to “the new attitude fostered by co-captains Anna Adler (senior) and #1 team player, nationally-ranked Clare Kuensell (junior).” Hazell adds, “Yesterday was the first day that, as a team, the girls fought for every ball and every point. By doing this they learned that anything can happen as a result of that effort.”

Earlier this season, the Shipley girls lost to the Lower Merion/Harriton Club team by a score of 1-6 at Shipley’s home courts. This time around, the Gators weren’t ready to go away so easily.In particular, Shipley senior co-captain Anna Adler earned the 3-0 victory after losing 0-3 in the match against Lower Merion/Harriton. Junior Jenny Kley won her first match of the season 3-2 to help secure the victory for Shipley.

The newfound confidence of the Shipley girls will be important for the remainder of the season as the Gators take on some tough league competition that includes The Hill School, GFS, and nationally ranked Lawrenceville.