Penn State fencing opens its 2026-27 season at Temple’s Coach Nikki Franke Invitational in Philadelphia, with women competing Saturday and men Sunday. The two-day meet features individual events and gives 14 Nittany Lions their collegiate debuts.

By the Numbers
  • 14 Penn State fencers will make their collegiate debuts.
  • The invitational is in its 46th year.
  • Competition runs Oct. 24-25, beginning at 8:30 a.m. each day.
State of Play
  • Women’s events are scheduled for Saturday; men’s events are Sunday.
  • Both days begin with epee and foil, while saber is scheduled to conclude competition at noon.
  • Sophomores Léna Gyenes, Yuna Tamura and Tyson Deck return after competing at last year’s invitational.
What's Next

The Nittany Lions begin competition Saturday in Philadelphia. Results will be available through Fencing Time Live.

Bottom Line

The season opener is both a first test for Penn State and a showcase for a large incoming group, with 14 athletes beginning their collegiate careers on the strip.