Tritons duo shines on national stage as UCSD records one of its strongest NCAA fencing performances in program history.
SOUTH BEND, Ind. | UC San Diego fencing continued its rise on the national stage as Nurzhan Abzhanov and Sunny Sharma earned Honorable Mention All-America honors at the NCAA Men’s National Collegiate Fencing Championships, marking a major milestone for the Tritons program.
Competing in the highly competitive epee discipline, Sharma capped his collegiate career with a ninth-place finish, while freshman standout Abzhanov placed 12th, announcing his arrival as one of the sport’s emerging talents.
Sharma delivered one of the most impressive performances of his career, finishing with a 14-9 overall record across two days of competition. His ability to win tight bouts proved critical, as 10 of his matches were decided by a single touch—including six victories.
The senior’s ninth-place finish marked a significant leap from his 21st-place result a year ago, underscoring his growth and consistency at the highest level of collegiate fencing.
Abzhanov Emerges as Rising Star
For Abzhanov, the championship served as a breakout moment. The freshman posted an 11-12 record, including a strong opening day where he won seven of nine bouts after his first match.
His performance secured the final All-America position in men’s epee, setting the tone for what could be a standout collegiate career.
Historic Moment for UC San Diego
The duo’s achievement is part of a broader success story for UC San Diego. Along with Katherine Kim—who earned All-America honors in the women’s competition—the Tritons produced three All-Americans in a single season, tied for the second-most in program history.
Even more notably, this marks the first time UCSD has had two All-Americans in the same weapon category, highlighting the program’s growing depth and national competitiveness.
Head coach Juan Ignacio Calderon praised the team’s unity and determination following the milestone performance.
“This NCAA Championship result is truly special for our program,” Calderon said. “It speaks volumes about the level we are reaching.”
Inside the Championship Format
The NCAA Championships featured 24 fencers per weapon competing in a round-robin format before advancing to elimination rounds. Points earned contributed not only to individual honors but also to team standings.
UC San Diego’s men’s team finished 17th overall, while the women’s squad placed 16th, continuing their transition into Division I competition.
Program on the Rise
With multiple All-Americans, rising talent, and continued momentum, UC San Diego fencing is positioning itself as a program to watch in NCAA competition.
For Sharma, the achievement is a culmination of years of dedication. For Abzhanov, it’s just the beginning.
And for the Tritons, it’s another step toward national prominence.
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-- By Michael R. Thomas
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