The New York University women's fencing team opened its 2023-24 season on Saturday, November 4, with competition at the Coach Nikki Franke Classic at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.

Some good results were recorded as the Violets began their season's journey.

Returning senior captain Maria Stamos was the team's top finisher, taking fifth place in foil.  After an outstanding performance in pool play, Stamos was seeded #2 in the Round of 64. 

After receiving a bye in the first round, Stamos won two bouts before being eliminated in the Round of 8.

"Maria wasn't feeling well, but despite that she performed great and showed a  lot of resiliency," said Head Coach Ben Bratton. "A real veteran performance."

Freshman Lily Papadakis also had a strong showing in her collegiate debut, taking sixth place in epee. She advanced out of pool play as the #6 seed, and similar to Stamos, received a bye and won two bouts before bowing out in the Round of 8.

"For her first time out there, Lily showed a lot of composure," Bratton offered. "I'm sure she'll have a fulfilling career here."

In saber, freshman Miriam Shoman tied for 22nd place in her first venture as a Violet. She was seeded #21 after pool play and won her first bout of direct elimination before falling in the Round of 32 by a tight 15-13 score.

There was no team scoring at the event. 

"We fenced with lots of energy and enthusiasm," Bratton added. "We fought in every bout, and we will use this as good springboard moving forward."  

The squad will be back in action on Sunday, December 3, at the Sacred Heart Invitational in Fairfield, CT.