March 8, 2007

CLEVELAND - In the midst of one of the most successful seasons in the history of the program, Cleveland State learned on Thursday (March 8) that it has qualified 10 fencers for the upcoming NCAA Midwest Regional. Notre Dame is hosting the event on Saturday (March 10) beginning at 8:00 a.m. in the Joyce Center Fieldhouse.

The men's epee team led the way with four selections, as freshman Jonathan Bibb, sophomore Andy Snell, junior Jeff Tormey and freshman Shawn Wright all qualified. In men's foil, freshman Liran Gross, senior Mike Merker and freshman Stephen Montgomery will represent the Vikings, while sophomore John Downey rounded out the men's selections in sabre.

On the women's side, senior Pam Marvinney (epee) and junior Leigh Pendergrass (foil) were the CSU qualifiers.

"This is the most we've ever qualified for regional competition," CSU head coach Jim Sager said. "I firmly believe that we deserve these spots - our student-athletes have worked hard all year long. At this time of year, you know what we have to do: win and go on or lose and go home."

Last year, the Vikings sent seven fencers to the NCAA Regional, with Downey and Tormey earning bids as alternates to the NCAA Championships.