Temple University Athletics
Temple Places Five in Finals at NCAA Regionals
3.11.07 | Women's Fencing
March 11, 2007
TEANECK, NJ - The Temple women's fencing team, under the direction of 35th-year head coach Nikki Franke, placed five competitors in the finals at the NCAA Regional Championships on Saturday. Additionally, five Cherry and White fencers also reached the semifinal round.
"The girls fenced hard throughout the day in what was an extremely difficult and long competition," commented Franke.
Junior sabreist Kristine Jones and freshman foilist Melissa Parker led the Temple attack with fifth place finishes while sophomore epeeist Melissa Forsythe (10th), freshman epeeist Kristen Howell (11th) and freshman sabreist Christie Griffith (9th) also advanced to the finals.
"Kristine Jones had an exceptional day in winning some key bouts including one against a former sabre national champion," praised Franke. "Also, Melissa Parker fenced very well during the final round, winning seven of her first eight bouts."
Foilists Samantha Myles, Nina Gernes and Abigail Schifferle placed 13th, 14th and 15th, respectively, en route to competing in the semifinal round. Also reaching the semifinals, junior epeeist Brianna Ferrara placed 15th while sophomore sabreist Ashley Phillips finished 17th.
Additionally, freshman sabreist Sara Haase placed 25th while junior epeeist Marla Nacey ranked 32nd.
"The girls fenced hard throughout the day in what was an extremely difficult and long competition," commented Franke.
The Owls will now await word from the NCAA Fencing Committee concerning Championship selections. From the Mid-Atlantic region, seven women fencers will be selected in each weapon to compete at the Championship in two weeks at Drew University (Madison, NJ).
In addition, there are two at-large spots up for grabs and selection is based on a combination of a fencer's season record and their regional finish. The NCAA will announce their selections on Wednesday, March 14.
