Robert’s passion for the game of squash comes from being a professional squash athlete for 14 years. He currently holds 30th place in the world and 1st in the United States.

 

The goal of the Santa Barbara School of Squash (SBSOS) is to “provide consistent and reliable academic and athletic support and guidance to the children and families attending schools in Santa Barbara.  By exposing these children, who are committed to self-improvement  to squash and other educational experiences, SBSOS aims to help each child realize his or her academic and personal potential” (sbsos.org).

 

SBSOS currently has 30 students ranging from 5th grade all the way up to seniors in high school. Not only is the SBSOS committed to teaching students the game of squash, but also study habits and social skills. This is achieved by having each student dedicate 4 days a week to come play squash and bring homework, along with their grades on a weekly basis. The program also has their students promise to complete a set amount of hours of community service which allows the children to gain important life skills and build a relationship with their community.

 

The program has a 100% success rate with students graduating high school and going to college. Students from SBSOS have been accepted into UC Berkeley, Westmont College, University of Southern California, Bates College, and many more. These students have received over one million dollars all together in scholarships and have been among the first in their family to attend college.

 

Not only has the SBSOS had success with the students going to college, but also in the game of squash. Their two teams have competed locally and nationally against their sister schools of squash. One of their players even won the Urban National Championship at the age of 17 in the U19 division.

 

Robert and his team have high hopes for their program and hope to expand the number of students from 30 to 60, and hopefully find a permanent facility for the kids to practice.