Omneya Lofts Poughkeepsie Crown
by Jane Parker, Jan 18, 2004  © 2004   [ complete tourney draw/results ]

Omney Abdel Kawy scores a thrilling win at Vassar.. photo © 2004 Stocktonphotos.com

In a riveting final between Fiona Geaves, World # 9 and Omneya Abdel Kawy,
World # 16 and U23 # 1, squash enthusiasts had a rare treat, watching two very talented women battle it out for the 2004 WISPA Class of 1932 title at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York. The two players emerged as finalists after a string of challenging matches against the other talents at the tournament. In the quarterfinals, Kawy won in three straight games to defeat Jenny Tranfield, World # 17. Geaves played a more demanding match against Rebecca Chiu, World #19, where the two players endured five strenuous games. Sunday’s gripping 5 game final was won by the youngest player in this year’s tournament, Kawy, aged 18. Kawy put up a tough fight against Geaves, a relative veteran of the game. Geaves, winner of the 1995 British National Championships, exhibited great polish and technique in her match against less experienced Kawy, a true asset to the Egyptian national team and one of the most exciting young talents to burst onto the international scene for some years.

During the final, spectators were left guessing the eventual outcome as the two women played with great resilience, neither showing signs of giving in until the bitter end. The women were tied after the second game and both started to play more aggressively by the third. Fiona, despite her proficiency in the game, showed signs of fatigue by the fourth game giving Kawy an advantage. The younger player then started serving a lot faster between points, increasing the pressure on her opponent. Both players made full use of the court space, alternating between a series of lengths and quick and tricky drops.

Fiona Geaves held the initiative at times but couldn't hold on against the precocious El Kawy. photo © 2004 Stocktonphotos.com

Kawy made use of her unpredictable drops to keep Geaves guessing, while Geaves hit a number of drops that were just unreachable for Kawy. At many points during the match, it seemed as though Geaves would win, as Kawy hit several of her shots into the tin. However, the teenager made a prompt return, winning back her lost points and then some. While the two women were well-matched, Kawy had the upper hand in the latter half of the game with her agility and swiftness. Her patience and composure were a bonus. Geaves on the other hand, showed signs frustration, which may have interfered with her game. All in all, it was an exciting match from start to finish and an excellent ending to one of the best Class of 1932 tournaments to date.

2004 WISPA CLASS OF 1932 FINALS

Omneya Abdel Kawy def. Fiona Geaves 1-9, 9-7, 7-9, 9-7, 9-6

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