Army Fencing hosts École Polytechnique Cadet Fencers

28 October 2007 - On the weekend of October 27th, the United States Military Academy’s fencing team hosted members of the French military academy, l'Ecole Polytechnique. The French fencers arrived on Saturday, October 27 and stayed at West Point through the following Monday morning. They enjoyed parties at the plebe and firstie clubs, and were treated to first-class tours of the West Point by the Army fencing team. All was fun and congenial. On Sunday, however, the heat was on.

The Army Black Knights and French cadets suited up and headed over to Arvin gym for Army’s first home tournament. The French made sure their counterparts knew they were there as they warmed up outside, causing quite a stir. The West Point Cadets were not fazed, however, and Army quickly reminded the French whose turf they were on. After a heated contest, Army swept the French, beating them handily. Each blade defeated their French opponents, leaving no doubt that Army fielded the more dominant fencers on that day.

After the match, the two teams set aside their competitive spirits and enjoyed a meal of pizza and soda. The French, however, settled for nothing less than sparkling cider. Perhaps if Army showed off their fencing skills, the French showed off their superior culinary tastes. Regardless, the two teams met on the ‘strips of friendly strife’ and departed with a heightened sense of brotherhood and communion. Indeed, the Black Knights’ victory over the French was a great way to kickoff the 2007 – 2008 fencing season!