Meet Katie Tutrone: Squash Player, Storm Chaser, and All-Around Inspiration
Katie Tutrone is a 29-year-old squash player who balances her passion for the game with a fascinating career as a weather reporter and storm tracker. Let’s dive into her experiences, inspirations, and unique journey!
Interviewer: Hi Katie, thanks for sitting down with us! To start, where do you currently live and play squash?
Katie: Hi! I’m based in Brooklyn, NY.
Interviewer: And where did it all begin? When and how did you start playing squash?
Katie: It all started at Meadow Mill Athletic Club in Baltimore. My parents played squash after work while I was at daycare there. I got tired of building lame forts in the playpens, so I decided to join them on the court instead.
Interviewer: That’s such a great story! Who was your first coach?
Katie: My first coach was Lefika Ragontse, but my very first lesson was with none other than the queen herself, Narelle Krizek.
Interviewer: That’s a legendary start! Do you have a favorite memory from your junior squash days?
Katie: Honestly, just being a short menace with my partner-in-crime, Maria Elena Ubina. We always had the best time together.
Interviewer: When did you start playing doubles?
Katie: I started playing doubles during juniors—with Maria Elena, of course!
Interviewer: Who’s your favorite player on the SDA to watch?
Katie: Nikki Todd! Her smile is so infectious, and who doesn’t want to smile while watching squash?
Interviewer: Great choice, she certainly seems to love the game! What’s been your favorite SDA experience so far?
Katie: Hanging out with the Calgary crew. They’re like an eclipse—you don’t see them often, but when you do, it’s unforgettable.
Interviewer: That’s such a fun way to describe it. What’s your favorite pre-match snack?
Katie: Anything with eggs. Sausage, egg, and cheese sandwiches are my go-to, but I’m also a fan of Dunkin’ egg bites.
Interviewer: And what’s the most important part of your warm-up routine?
Katie: Citibiking to my match. It’s a workout and a commute all in one!
Interviewer: Love the practicality! What off-court activities help you stay in shape?
Katie: Muay Thai and line dancing. Jess Davis and I have a blast with the line dancing—it’s such a fun way to stay active.
Interviewer: Any big life events happening recently?
Katie: I got engaged during the eclipse in Russellville, Arkansas!
Interviewer: Congratulations! Which sportspersons did you admire growing up?
Katie: Manny Pacquiao and Serena Williams. Pacquiao’s grit and determination and Serena’s dominance and grace were so inspiring.
Interviewer: Amazing role models. What book are you currently reading?
Katie: What If We Get It Right? by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. It’s all about climate solutions, which is something I’m really passionate about.
Interviewer: And what TV show are you currently watching?
Katie: I’m watching Ren Faire and Silo. Both are so good!
Interviewer: Great picks. What’s your day job?
Katie: I’m a weather reporter and storm tracker at The Weather Channel.
Interviewer: That’s fascinating! How do you balance your job with playing squash at such a high level?
Katie: I try to be really easy on myself. I remind myself that taking breaks—even for weeks due to storms—can actually make me better. As for tournaments, I make sure my boss understands what squash is and that sometimes I might need to miss work (or storms) for it.
Interviewer: That’s solid advice. It sounds like you’ve found a great balance between your passions. Thanks so much for sharing your story with us, Katie!
Katie: Thank you! It’s been a blast.