March 21, 2005

HOUSTON, Texas - Cleveland State sophomore foilist Mike Merker posted a 6-17 record to finish 20th in his first NCAA Championship appearance. Ohio State's Boaz Ellis, who Merker defeated two weeks ago in regional action, defended his national title to help the Buckeyes to a second place finish overall. Hosted by Rice, the Championships took place March 17-20 at the Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

"Mike really held his own and represented Cleveland State very well," head coach Jim Sager said. "I'm very proud of him and how he fought hard in every match."

A Neshanic Station, N.J. native, Merker went 72-7 during the regular season to help the Viking foil squad to a No. 10 national ranking. He earned first team All-Midwest Region honors as well as being named to the Midwest All-Conference second team.