Fencing Teams Looking to Build on Past Success
The boys’ and girls’ fencing teams return to action this winter with large rosters that include solid senior leadership along with talented and enthusiastic underclassmen.
According to head coach Joe Zanko, having that type of lineup is essential to help grow the sport here at Gill.
“My goal is to build the program by creating a positive team culture,” said Zanko. “The key to a successful fencing program is having a continuum of coaching. For me, that requires a group of upperclassmen to be invested in the improvement of the less experienced fencers. Without this, fencing remains an individual's sport.”
The fencers will have a full schedule this upcoming season as they will compete in 13 regular season matches along with the Somerset County Tournament, the Prep B Championships and the state tournament as well.
“I have a lot of confidence in my women's sabre squad,” said Zanko. “I think they will continue their excellent run from last season. Men's Sabre was held back a little last season, but I hope that their performance will pick up.”
The Knights will be led by Brianna Moglianesi '19 and Caroline Solondz '21. Moglianesi advanced to the individual rounds of the Skyland Conference championships last season and also won silver in women’s epee at the Prep B Tournament. Solondz meanwhile won bronze in sabre at both the Montclair Frosh-Soph Invitational and the Prep B tournament.
The fencing season begins on December 14, as the Knights will take on Ridge High School.
Gill St. Bernard's School
Gill St. Bernard’s is a private, coeducational day school for students age three through grade 12, located in suburban New Jersey. Each of the three school divisions provides a rigorous, meaningful, and age-appropriate curriculum, and all students benefit from the environmental learning opportunities that exist on our 208-acre campus.