As is the case with many of Fordham's great athletes, James McNamara came to Fordham with a reputation of excellence already established at Fordham Prep, as a nationally ranked tennis player.

"He was outstanding at the Prep," said tennis/squash coach Bob Hawthorn, "as well as at the University in both squash and tennis."

At Fordham University, McNamara helped propel the squash program to national prominence, as the Rams were ranked sixth in the nation.  He was a four-year member of both the squash and tennis teams.