Usually, October indicates the end of a fall sport and the start of a winter one, but Poly’s fencing team is not ready to put down their blades. As the team transitions into winter competition, Poly fencers will gear up to participate in new bouts with sharper technique, stronger teamwork, and a fresh set of goals.
The Panthers have had many successes in the fall season. During the Poly Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 26, captain Ben Brady ‘28 secured a gold medal in the varsity division and Ellington Hong ‘30 took gold in junior varsity. Brady also placed sixth at the mixed USFA tournament on Sunday, Sept. 13, the first open tournament of the season. Later, at the Poly Invitational Team Quad-team on Sunday, Oct. 11, featuring four schools and 10 teams, Poly placed second and third. One team, composed of captain Annie Delbridge ‘28, Bruce Stetson ‘29, and Brady, secured second, and the other, composed of JV captain Aidan Shih ‘28, JV captain Narayan Neti ‘28, and sophomore Everett Blau ‘29, got third.
The team’s collective success reflects the strong camaraderie between its members who cheer on one another during practices and on the fencing strip. Head coach Eric Holmgren said, “Our main strength has always been the strong team spirit, camaraderie, and positive outlook instilled in the fencing program.”
Still, the team has room for improvement as they head into the winter season. Captain and senior Naomi Diehl noted, “As far as weaknesses, I think this season, we’re a larger team than we’ve been in the past, so that is an adjustment, and we’ve had a few penalties during tournaments that have almost lost some people their bouts.”
As the fencers continue to hone their skills, they have learned that success on the strip demands more than the physicality of agile movements and precise aim. Each bout commands observation, adaptability, and decision-making while under pressure. Neti described the strategic focus he brings to competition: “I’m watching my opponents and looking for a plan. I’m always thinking about their weaknesses and my strengths, and the more focused I am on that, the better I do.”
This fall, the team welcomed eight freshmen, who add potential to the roster and depth to the fencing program for upcoming years. Among this cohort of neophytes, freshmen Jasper Aslan and Jack Tumlin have distinguished themselves through their steady improvement. Holgrem said, “Freshmen Jaspar Aslan and Jack Tumlin have made strong progress with team participation and improvements in their fencing skills. They both show great promise for the future!”
As the winter season begins, some of Poly’s fall fencers will continue with the team, bringing their experience into a new season. Other fencers will join or return to the team for the first time this year. Heading into the winter season, senior Owen Taylor shared, “We hope to keep improving and learning from our mistakes. We also hope to keep our positivity and supportiveness, so we can ensure everyone feels valued and let the team know it’s okay if you don’t win.”
As a new season starts, the Panthers will be a chance to sharpen their skills and bolster the trust that defines the team.
