NYU Women’s Fencing to Open Season on Sunday
The team will kick off its latest campaign at the Paulson Center with a 20-person roster.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Volleyball
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The NYU women's fencing team will launch its upcoming season on October 27, 2026, at the Paulson Center. The squad enters the meet with a 20-person roster following the addition of six new student-athletes.
Why it matters
The team aims to build on recent momentum, including a victory over Harvard University last season, as it sets its sights on competing for an NCAA National Championship title.
The roster expansion includes two new foil fencers and four saber specialists joining the 20-member squad. This total represents the active pool of athletes for the current season.
The players
Ben Bratton
He serves as the head coach of the NYU women's fencing team and has led the program since the fall of 2022.
New York University
This private research university based in New York City fields various collegiate athletic programs, including its competitive fencing team.
The details
Head coach Ben Bratton continues to shape the program by prioritizing shared goals and fostering team cohesion through voluntary captain-led practices. Members also integrate unconventional training methods, including warm-up games like volleyball and handball, to prepare for competition.
Timeline
October 27, 2026: The team competes at the NYU Invitational.
Fall 2022: Ben Bratton took over as head coach.
1993: NYU and Harvard began competing in fencing.
Season Trajectory
Participation in the upcoming Division III National Championship marks a significant shift in the program's competitive scope. This tournament expansion allows the team to challenge itself against a wider field of national programs beyond regular season meets.
The addition of six new members directly impacts the team's depth across the foil and saber squads for upcoming matches. Coaches will be monitoring how these new athletes integrate into the rotation during the team's opening invitational.
The takeaway
Focusing on a tight-knit culture and shared goals remains a primary strategy for success in collegiate sports. Athletes can maximize their performance by incorporating diverse, game-based warm-ups to maintain intensity during practice sessions.
Further reading
For more information on university athletics, see the latest updates on Volleyball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Washington Square News.
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