UPDATE: The Yale Bulldogs’ men’s fencing team has launched their season with a commanding performance at the Vassar Open Invitational, winning all five bouts on November 11, 2023. This victory sets a powerful tone as they aim to build on last year’s impressive record of 18-7.
The Bulldogs opened with a decisive 21-6 victory against Drew University, followed by another 21-6 win over Stevens College. They continued their dominance with a 19-8 win against Lafayette College and defeated Johns Hopkins University 18-9. The day concluded with a solid 19-8 victory over Sacred Heart University.
Captain Jordan Silberzweig expressed the team’s excitement, stating, “After months of preparation and long morning practices, we came in hungry to compete at a high level.” The Bulldogs are eager to harness the energy of their enthusiastic freshman class as they aim for greater achievements this season.
The men’s team, which includes three returning NCAA Championship qualifiers—Tony Whelan, Silberzweig, and Castor Kao, who is currently ranked sixth in the nation in foil—looks to enhance its performance after a challenging Ivy League Invitational last year, where they faced tough competition.
Meanwhile, the women’s team also showcased their strength, going 6-1 with dominant wins, including a staggering 21-0 victory over Yeshiva University and a 20-1 win against Lafayette College. They triumphed against Tufts 18-9 and both Wagner and Wellesley College 19-8, although they suffered a narrow 13-14 loss to Cornell.
Captain Amanda O’Donnell highlighted the team’s potential, stating, “The past meet went well. We beat six teams, including Brown, which set a really good tone for the rest of the season.” The women’s team is expected to strengthen further as they welcome back two starters and continue training together in preparation for the Ivy League Championships.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will compete next at the Tri-State Shark Showcase in Brooklyn on November 23, 2023. The momentum from these early victories is crucial as both teams aim for excellence in the upcoming competitions.
Stay tuned for updates as the Bulldogs continue their journey in the world of collegiate fencing!
