JERSEY CITY (December 6, 2009) - The Stevens Institute of Technology women's fencing team had one of the best days in school history on Sunday as two freshmen, Juliet Turalski and Krystal Perkins, won the Saber and Epee weapons at the National Intercollegiate Women's Fencing Association's Christmas Invitational.  The last time the Ducks won any weapon at the NIWFA tournament was 33 years ago, when Lorraine Sheehan won the Foil championship in 1976. “It's a dream come true,” said head Coach Linda Vollkommer-Lynch. “It was a wonderful tournament for Juliet, Krystal and our entire team.”

At Epee, four of the top-10 finishers in the tournament were from Stevens. Junior Meagan Ritter made it a sweep for the Ducks in the top two spots, finishing second in the weapon division. Stephanie Spelman came in eighth place and Clara Luneke placed 10th.

The other Sabreists for the Ducks also had a good showing at Sunday's tournament. Second-year fencer Krista Sticco also made it to the final round and was fifth overall in the tournament. Junior Myriam Petitpierre placed 20th in the event and senior Erica Mondadori followed right behind with a 21st place finish. The 70 year-old trophy won by Turalski at the tournament was also won by current Stevens saber coach Aziza Hassan, who took home the title in 2000 and 2001 as a member of the Temple Owls.

At Foil, all six competitors advanced to the second round, and they were led by Danielle Bisson who placed eighth and Alexis Clyburn, who finished 14th.

Each athlete that advanced to the latest stages of the tournament fought over 25 bouts to reach that level.

“This was huge- just a great day for our entire program,” said Vollkommer-Lynch. “I can't say enough about all our ladies today. Hopefully this is a sign of great things to come this year.”

The Ducks will have over a month to celebrate their victories as the next time the Ducks will be in action is at their annual Alumnae Match on January 17, 2010.