While the Huntington High School girls’ fencing team struggled to win matches, individual fencers did manage to find success.
The 17 athlete strong Blue Devil squad was coached by Michelle O’Brien, Vin O’Garra and John Ferraiolo. The three coaches are striving to develop more interest in the sport, including offering a months-long clinic to attract elementary school students who will hopefully continue in the program.
The Blue Devil girl’s team’s roster included seventh grader Uma Shtrom; eighth grader Fiona Brosnan; freshmen Madelyn Bavaro, Alexandra Kustera, Michelle Lopez, Sophia Matheus and Emily Roberts; sophomores Adora Colay, Emma Guba, Rebecca Hoffmann, Sasha Koulakova, Aileen Lopez and Gemma Pellegrini; juniors Josefina Fasolino and Akira Selleri and seniors Francesca Greco and Meagan-Elise Malone.
Greco fenced her way to honorable mention All-County honors. She was named as an alternate for Suffolk’s sabre team in the annual Exceptional Senior meet.
“Francesca is an amazing young lady who has triumphed despite many obstacles presented to her this season,” said O’Brien, who served as Huntington’s head coach. “She is an incredible example for today’s youth and her consistent enthusiasm and love for the sport and her team is contagious.”
Malone garnered second team All-League recognition and was honorable mention All-County selection. She was an alternate for Suffolk’s epee team at the Exceptional Senior meet.
“Meagan is a true leader who is able to motivate her team and keep the morale positive,” O’Brien said. “She’s done a wonderful job working with the younger members of the team to help develop their skills.”
Fasolino also shined, capturing first team All-League and second team All-County honors. The teenager compiled a mark of 21-6 in foil.
“Josie went to fencing last summer and used the knowledge gained there to not only better herself, but her team as well,” O’Brien said.
Huntington’s girls’ foil and epee squads finished seventh in the Section XI championshipos while its sabre group placed ninth in the standings.
“The team improved its scores throughout the season,” O’Brien said. “It is hoped they will fence in the off-season and come back next year ready to win.”
