April 20, 2003

CLEVELAND - Cleveland State fencing Head Coach Jim Sager has announced the signing of Mike Merker to a national letter of intent. Merker was a first team All-State selection in New Jersey.

A native of Neshanic Station, N.J., the foil specialist finished undefeated (32-0) in dual meets. Merker placed first in the Junior Olympic qualifiers, first at the Cetrulo Tournament and hails from the renowned Clinton Fencing Club, where Austin Young coached him. At Somerville High School, Merker was coached by Harry James.

"Mike has the potential to be an All American, following in the footsteps of Martin Koren and Paulo Roselli," noted Sager.