Gary G. Gentile, 1953-2016, Squash Doubles Champion by Gilbert B. Mateer
Gary
Gentile, the right-wall half of one of the few nationally ranked squash
doubles teams ever to come from Pittsburgh, PA, passed away after a
multi-year battle with cancer.
Gentile and his partner David
McSorley were the number one doubles team in Pittsburgh for over 20
years, from the early 70s to mid 1990s. During this period they
captured numerous city championships; competed as the lead team for
Pittsburgh in the Knox Cup (Pittsburgh vs. Buffalo vs. Cleveland); and
were consistently a top ranked national team …. winning the Canadian
Veterans Doubles Championship in 1987.
Gary was known for
his success in the courtroom handling many high profile divorce
cases. This success was the result of the same qualities that he
brought to the game of squash: hard work, competitive spirit, a keen
sense of fairness and a relentless problem solving focus.
On
the court, Gary’s mental abilities and toughness were bolstered by his
speed and superb racket skills, always one step ahead of others
complemented by un-retrievable reverse corner winners.
This
weekend is the culmination of the 2016 US Squash Doubles season with
the US National Championships held in Buffalo, NY. A
regular stomping ground for Gary’s doubles competition.
The
squash world mourns the passing of this champion who, coming from a
second tier practice location, was able to compete on a national basis
and build a legacy of friends.
Gary is survived by his beautiful wife Jean of 31 years and three dearly loved children Liza, Jordan and Ben.
Photo left to right:
Pittsburgh City Champions Pittsburgh Athletic Club - Gary Gentile, Skip Schroeder and Dave McSorley
