On behalf of her husband Scott Miner, her friends at Constellation Brands and the University Club of Chicago this award is given in memory of Liz Kutyla- Miner each year during the Windy City Open to a MetroSquash female who displays a dedication to reaching her potential both on and off the squash court. Recipients of the award are chosen for the academic success, positive attitude, and effort in their athletic and scholarly pursuits.

Makyla Kelley has been a member of MetroSquash for 7 years. She started the program in 6th grade and has developed into a leader both on and off the courts. She attends Josephinium Academy, a private school in Chicago where she plays basketball, volleyball, and softball. Makyla is phenomenal squash player; last year, she placed third in her division at the Urban Squash Individual Nationals and reached a US Squash National Ranking of #68 in GU19. She is also a stellar student earning mostly A’s in a challenging IB program. She aspires to play squash in college with St. Lawrence University being her top pick. When asked about MetroSquash, she responded, “MetroSquash has made me more outgoing and has had a positive impact on my academics. My mentor Emilie continues to give me advice about education and squash and is shaping me into who I am today.”

2017 Winner: Michel’le Messenger, 1st Year at Clark-Atlanta University
2016 Winner: Kai Stewart, 2nd Year at Lincoln Unversity
2015 Winner: Anathiel John-Charles, 2nd Year at Smith College
2014 Winner: Liliana Vazquez, Senior at Tabor Academy
2013 Winner: Khadijah Muhammad, 4th Year at Denison University
2012 Winner: Marylyn Rogel, Alumna of University of Vermont
2011 Winner: Nubia Beasley-Bartee, 2nd Year at Bates College
2010 Winner: Precious Rooks, Alumna of Denison University