BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The Drew University women's fencing team opened its 2019-2020 campaign in winning style on Sunday, finishing 4-2 at the Long Island University Invitational.  

Three of the victories came against Division I foes Fairleigh Dickinson University (17-10), Wagner College (16-11) and host LIU (19-8). The Rangers also defeated Division III Hunter College (24-3). Their only losses of the day were to in-state rival NJIT (19-8) and Wellesley College (21-6).

Leading the way for the Rangers was team captain Emily Huber with an 8-1 record in saber. She was supported by her saber squad mates, Kayla Ogden and Candace Zola, who each finished 8-6 on the day, and Olivia Yepez, who went 3-2.

Senior Lydia Segal was tops in foil, registering an 8-5 mark. Epee was led by sophomore Grace McCarthy, who went 11-5 on the day.

Freshmen Ashley Abreu (foil), Emma Downer (foil) and Sophia McGee (epee) also picked up their first collegiate career victories. McGee's performance was noteworthy as she scored key victories against Division I opponents FDU and Wagner to cement those wins.

"It was important that we got all of our freshmen into live action during this event," remarked Head Coach Vincent Paragano. "You can practice and practice, but none of that approaches the learning-curve of competition. It was good to see Sophia  and Candace  get off to great starts and to have Ashley and Emma pick up their first victories.  All of that will pay dividends as we get deeper in the season."

The women will return to action on Nov. 10 as they and the men's team venture to Poughkeepsie, N.Y. for the Vassar Invitational.