The Huntington varsity boys’ fencing team cobbled together a very nice season this winter under particularly trying circumstances brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coached by Burke Tomaselli, the team consisted of eighth graders Brandon Cohen and Thomas Davis; sophomores Peter Gaal, Jeffrey Garcia-Cabrera, Timothy Kusterbeck and Liam Tucker; juniors Omar Cruz, Jr., Luca Danna, James Kretschmer, Matthew Mead and Gian Vazquez and senior Miles Tierney.
Senior Miles Tierney capped off his Blue Devil fencing career in fine fashion.
Huntington’s captain, Tierney capped off his Blue Devil career with a splendid season. Competing in foil, he compiled a 19-8 record.
“Miles was the heart and soul of the boys team this season,” Tomaselli said. “Without him we would not have had the growth and success that we did. He was an integral part of having this season go as smoothly as it did while also helping develop young students in the program.”
Tucker went 16-11 in epee in a breakout season for the sophomore. “Liam is a rising star in the fencing community as well as with our team,” Tomaselli said. “He came into his own this season and brought technical knowledge to those who are newer to the sport.”
Kretschmer also enjoyed a fine campaign, going 15-12 in epee. “James took a huge leap as a fencer and as an individual,” Tomaselli said. “He was constantly asking questions and want to get more involved. He was willing to do whatever was necessary to help.”
The highlight of the winter came on Blue Devil Senior Day when Huntington upset longtime league foe Ward Melville, 17-10.
“We were absolutely focused and attentive the entire season,” Tomaselli said. “Whether they were a veteran senior or a middle schooler, everyone constantly had questions on how to improve and excel.”
The team’s season was delayed until early January due to the COVID-19 public health crisis, but once it started, everyone quickly fell into their usual routine.
“This team is special,” Tomaselli said. “These kids made the absolute most of this season and then some. The heart, passion and respect these young men showed during the season made me proud to represent them and the district as Huntington’s coach. They are friendly, but fierce and kept meets competitive regardless of the competition.”
With all but Tierney eligible to return, the Blue Devils are expecting to be highly competitive next winter.
“Ideally, everyone who is not graduating will be returning, along with some students who were not able to join us this year,” Tomaselli said. “Many of the kids seem dedicated to training year-round, which could benefit the program and culture greatly.”