Omar Hafez Named Skillman Award Finalist

Penn Athletics player recognized for sportsmanship and skill

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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University of Pennsylvania men's squash player Omar Hafez has been named a finalist for the College Squash Association's prestigious Skillman Award. Hafez, a decorated player, had a record-breaking season and is one of three finalists for the award, which recognizes outstanding sportsmanship and skill.

Why it matters

The Skillman Award is considered the most prestigious individual honor in college squash, highlighting not just athletic achievement but also leadership and character. Hafez's nomination as a finalist reflects his impact on the sport both on and off the court.

The details

This season, Hafez earned First-team All-Ivy honors, won the CSA Individual championship title, and was named Ivy League Player of the Year. He also broke the University of Pennsylvania's career wins record, surpassing the 67 wins previously held by teammate Nathan Kueh. Hafez is a two-time Potter Cup winner and will compete for his third title this weekend at the CSA Team Championships.

  • Hafez was named a finalist for the 2025 Skillman Award.
  • The winner of the Skillman Award is scheduled to be announced on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. during the CSA Champions Reception.

The players

Omar Hafez

A University of Pennsylvania men's squash player who has been named a finalist for the College Squash Association's Skillman Award.

Tad Carney

A Yale University men's squash player who is also a finalist for the 2025 Skillman Award.

Joachim Chuah

A Trinity College men's squash player who is also a finalist for the 2025 Skillman Award.

Craig Rappaport

The first Penn athlete to win the Skillman Award, doing so in 1996.

Gilly Lane

A Penn athlete who won the Skillman Award in 2007.

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What’s next

The winner of the Skillman Award is scheduled to be announced on Friday, March 6, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. during the CSA Champions Reception. If Hafez were to win, he would be the third Penn athlete to receive the honor, and the first since current head coach Gilly Lane won the award in 2007.

The takeaway

Hafez's nomination as a Skillman Award finalist reflects his exceptional performance, sportsmanship, and leadership on the squash court. His accomplishments have the potential to inspire future generations of Penn athletes to strive for excellence both in their sport and in their character.