Masland hired as M. Squash coach

The former Harvard starThe former Harvard starreoplaces popular NedThe former Harvard starreoplaces popular NedEdwards at the helm. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. Last week, the Penn men's squash team, forever chasing Ivy League power Harvard in the standings, nabbed 1990 Crimson graduate James Masland as its new head coach. The 29-year-old Masland replaces the popular Ned Edwards, who abruptly resigned last September after six years as the Quakers men's squash coach. "I think I bring some enthusiasm and knowledge of the game to the team," Masland said. "I also hope I bring a certain level of determination and concentration on how they play squash and how they think about the game." Although young by coaching standards, Masland brings much experience to the Quakers. After serving as Harvard's co-captain his senior season, he played professionally for two years, regularly achieving a top-30 ranking in the WPSA. In addition, Masland captured the 1992 United States Open teaching pro hardball championship. Moreover, Masland had held a number of interesting positions related to squash. He has served as head instructor, promoter and director at a squash summer camp the past 10 summers. He was also an assistant squash coach at the Berwyn Squash and Fitness Club. And he even taught an accredited course in advanced international squash at Penn State. "My first impression of him was that he was kind of young," Penn co-captain Rajiv Mehta said. "But he looks like he really fits in with the team and is personable and that one can interact with him -- not just on the court, but off the court as well." The Quakers had one of their best performances in years last season. But Edwards, tired of squash after a life dominated by the sport, resigned unexpectedly, leaving the athletic department scrambling to find a replacement. After a series of interviews, Masland was hired -- and now he faces the daunting task of following the beloved Edwards. "I know Ned personally. He's a wonderful guy," Masland said. "Of course it's going to be difficult. It's going to be a challenge." Not one to shy away from difficult tasks, Masland voiced optimism that one day he will lead Penn past his alma mater. Last season, Harvard crushed Penn in the semifinals of the Potter Trophy tournament, 9-0, en route to a national championship. "I don't think it will be as decisive the next time we play," Masland said. "I'm optimistic about the future, so of course we can get past them."

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