UPDATE: The Yale Bulldogs men’s fencing team has launched its season with an impressive showing at the Vassar Open Invitational, winning all five of their matches this past weekend. This dominant performance positions them as a formidable contender as they look ahead to the upcoming season.
In a series of decisive victories, the Bulldogs triumphed over Drew University with a score of 21-6, followed by a repeat performance against Stevens College, again winning 21-6. The team continued its streak by defeating Lafayette College 19-8, overpowering Johns Hopkins University 18-9, and concluding the day with a strong 19-8 win against Sacred Heart University.
“We came in hungry to compete at a high level,” said team captain Jordan Silberzweig ’27 in an email. “We’re really excited to have an enthusiastic class of first-years.” The Bulldogs are leveraging their past successes, including an impressive 18-7 record last season, where they remained undefeated at this same invitational.
As they gear up for the Ivy League Championships in 2026, the men’s team is bolstered by three returning NCAA Championship qualifiers: Tony Whelan ’26, Silberzweig, and Castor Kao ’28, who is currently ranked sixth nationally in foil competition. The team aims to build on last year’s performance, where they finished 11th out of 33 teams in the NCAA Championships.
On the women’s side, the Bulldogs also showcased their strength, finishing the tournament with a remarkable record of 6-1. They achieved dominant wins against Yeshiva University and Lafayette College with scores of 21-0 and 20-1, respectively. Despite a narrow loss to Cornell by just one point, 13-14, they secured victories against Tufts, Wagner, Wellesley College, and Brown.
Women’s fencing captain Amanda O’Donnell ’26 expressed enthusiasm for the season ahead, stating, “The past meet went well. We beat six teams, including Brown, which set a really good tone for the rest of the season.” O’Donnell, alongside six returning NCAA Championship qualifiers, is eager for the team to return to full strength for the upcoming competitions.
The Bulldogs will next compete at the Tri-State Shark Showcase on November 23, 2023, in Brooklyn, where they will look to continue their strong momentum.
With both teams showing exceptional talent and determination, the Bulldogs are poised for an exciting fencing season, and fans are eager to see how they will perform in upcoming challenges. Keep an eye on this dynamic team as they aim for glory in the Ivy League and beyond.
