The Montclair High School’s Boys’ Fencing Team worked hard this season, finishing with a record of 8-3. They performed stronger than the last three seasons and lost only by one win nearly each time.  

The team’s key to success this year was the sabre team, comprised of Mitchell O’Keefe (28-2), Lucas Gilson (25-5), Gavin Burr (14-13), Otis Gannett-Len (1-2), and Matthew Hymowitz (5-3). With Otis being the only senior, the rest of the juniors were hungry to prove themselves, leading the team with an impressive record of 73-26 overall. 

The other weapons, foil and epee, had standout fencers Charles Moroze (17-10) and Simon Garda (20-9) who continued to help the team achieve success this season. 

Unfortunately, the Boys’ Fencing season ended at states after an amazing showing at the Cetrulos’ tournament, where they placed 2nd in sabre. The team did not qualify for state championships, placing 5th overall, but Mitchell O’Keefe and Lucas Gilson still qualified for state individuals. There, Mitchell placed 4th and Lucas placed 1st, earning himself boys’ sabre state champion. 

Montclair looks forward to seeing what the team will accomplish once these fencers become seniors. Their goal next year is to break all previous records, so keep an eye out!