Air Force Academy

March 27, 2011

U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. - Two Air Force Academy fencers, freshman Daniel Cohen and senior Daniel Trapani, earned All-American honors at the 2011 NCAA Men's & Women's Fencing National Championships in Columbus, Ohio, March 24-27.

Cohen, a freshman, finished tied for third place in the men's foil final four of the NCAA National Championships. Cohen lost to Miles Chamley-Watson from Penn State, 15-5. Cohen (cadet squadron 40) finished with 18 victories (.783 pct. of bouts won, 103 touches scored (TR), 65 touches received (TR) and +38 indicators (Ind. = TS minus TR). Cohen earned his second career All-American title, his first at Air Force; he placed fifth while fencing at Duke in 2009. Cohen also earned all-region status following his championship win at the 2011 NCAA West Regional Championships.

Trapani, who is a senior, finished in eighth place with 13 victories (.565 pct., 89 TS, 73 TR and +15 Ind.) in men's foil. After finishing the first four rounds on Day 1, Trapani (CS10) moved up to finish in the top 8. He concludes his Academy fencing career as a two-time All-American (2009 and 2011). Trapani was a four-time all-region selection while at Air Force.

Sophomore Scott Pippin (CS09) finished in 24th place with four victories (.174 pct, 55 TS, 107 TR and -52 Ind.) in his first national collegiate championship. Pippin was also the all-region after capturing the men's saber title at the 2011 NCAA West Region Championships on March 5.

"I feel the men did very well in the national championships," said head coach Abdel Salem. "They all had very respectful finishes, Daniel Cohen and Dan Trapani performed well, both had very good results and became All-Americans. All four of our Air Force men fought some very tough bouts against some tough opponents. This was the best competition I've watched and I am very happy for both Cohen and Trapani."

"Heather had some tough competition," said Salem. "We look forward to having her back as a team leader next year."