UPDATE: Columbia HS girls’ fencing team seeks three-peat state tournament team championship

MAPLEWOOD – The sixth-seeded and two-time defending state team champion Columbia High School girls’ fencing team defeated second-seeded Bergen Tech, 15-12, in the semifinals of the state team tournament on Feb. 19 in Hackensack.

The Cougars will vie for their third straight state team championship on Feb. 24 against top-seeded Montgomery on Feb. 24 at Morris Hills High School in Denville.

CHS girls’ head coach Tiffini Ginlock was thrilled for her team in the win over Bergen Tech.

“Last night was a great match with amazing fencers from both teams,” said Ginlock. “Bergen started off strong with a 4-1 lead. They were tough, but Columbia came back. It was a close match from 6-6, 7-7, 8-8, and so on up until 10. Once both teams got to 10, Columbia took control and clinched at 14-10 (or 11).”