En Garde! MIT Fencers Receive State-of-the-Art Facility

The improved salle d’armes, dedicated last month at the annual alumni meet, was expanded by 30 percent, which will allow for junior varsity competition and safer practices. Additionally, a new sprung athletic floor was installed as well as 12 full-length strips and ceiling-mounted electronic scoring equipment. Located in the duPont Athletic Center, the room had not been renovated since 1959.

"It was, without a doubt, a historic moment for the entire MIT fencing family," said head coach Jarek Koniusz. "Our students received a place where they can be productive in practice, wind down from academic stress, and then go back to their classes full of energy and creativity."

How is the fencing team doing this year? MIT women posted three top 10 finishes in its 2011-12 debut at The Big One hosted by Smith College on Nov. 5. At the same event, members of the men's team recorded two top 10 finishes.

View more photos from the dedication ceremony.