Skidmore College Athletics

Eleanor "Lee" Ford's achievements, national recognition, and exceptional leadership make her one of the most revered and influential players in the history of Skidmore women's tennis. Throughout her career, Ford boasted a singles record of 47-15 and a doubles record of 56-26. Her remarkable performance on the court earned her three-time All-American honors in doubles, achieved with two different partners. In 2014, she was team captain and named Liberty League Player of the Year.  

Ford has succeeded at the highest levels in Division III tennis. She competed and won key matches at team NCAA championships, individual NCAA championships, ITA National Indoors, and ITA Oracle Cup Fall Nationals. In 2012, she ranked No. 17 in the nation in doubles and finished in fourth place at the ITA Oracle Cup Fall Nationals. In 2013, she finished No. 8 in the nation and was ranked No. 4 throughout the year in doubles. She earned No.14 in the nation in doubles and advanced to the NCAA doubles championship quarterfinals in 2014, which was the first Skidmore doubles team to advance that far since 2001. 

"Lee's resilience and commitment to her team allowed her to overcome physical challenges and excel as a student-athlete at the national level. She displayed outstanding leadership to each of her teammates, which contributed to strong camaraderie and ultimately the team's success," says Head Women's Tennis Coach Curt Speerschneider. "Her impact on the program will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.