The Notre Dame women鈥檚 fencing team secured the 2026 NCAA Women鈥檚 Fencing Championship, marking their first team title since the NCAA separated men鈥檚 and women鈥檚 championships. This victory is Notre Dame鈥檚 15th overall in fencing, led by head coach Gia Kvaratskhelia, who has guided the team to six championships in the last eight years. Eszter Muhari not only claimed the individual epee title but also completed a commanding performance, helping the Irish clinch the championship with 102 points, narrowly defeating Columbia/Barnard at 99 points.

By the Numbers
  • Notre Dame finished with 102 points, securing the championship over Columbia/Barnard with 99 points.
  • Eszter Muhari won her third individual national title in epee with a decisive 13-1 victory.
  • All six Irish fencers earned All-American honors after finishing in the top eight.
Yes, But

While the Irish dominated the competition, Columbia provided a robust challenge, holding the lead heading into the second day. The close point margin indicates a competitive field among elite contenders.

State of Play
  • The championship marked a significant achievement for the Notre Dame women's fencing program, reflecting a longstanding tradition of success.
  • All Irish fencers demonstrated strong performances, showcasing depth across various events in the tournament.
What's Next

The men鈥檚 championships are set to begin, with the first rounds scheduled to start at 9:00 a.m., and anticipation builds for similar success.

Bottom Line

Notre Dame鈥檚 triumph reinforces their status as a powerhouse in collegiate fencing, exemplifying excellence and resilience within the sport, as they continue their quest for national prominence.