Arcadia University's Exciting Expansion with Men's and Women's Fencing Programs Set for 2027

Arcadia University Announces Men's and Women's Fencing Programs in 2027

Arcadia University is making waves in the world of collegiate sports with the exciting news that it will introduce men's and women's fencing programs starting in the fall of 2027. The announcement by the Department of Athletics and Recreation has sparked enthusiasm among students and athletics supporters alike, marking a significant expansion of the university's athletic offerings.

As noted, this new initiative will position Arcadia as the 13th Division III men's fencing program and the 17th Division III women's program in the NCAA. This move underscores the university's commitment to providing a diverse range of athletic opportunities to its student body, already boasting 30 athletic teams — 15 for women, 14 for men, and one co-ed team — beginning in the 2027-28 academic year.

The establishment of fencing programs follows on the heels of the successful launch of men's and women's wrestling at Arcadia in 2025, reflecting the university's proactive approach to expanding its sports roster. Associate Vice President of Athletics, Brian Granata, expressed the significance of athletics within the Arcadia experience, stating, “Athletics has been a central element of the Arcadia University educational experience, not just for student-athletes but for the entire University community.”

Granata further elaborated that over the past 15 years, the number of varsity sports has grown from 14 to 30, highlighting the university’s dedication to nurturing student-athletes who excel not only on the field but also in academics and community engagement.

Fencing, often associated with skill, strategy, and discipline, is rapidly gaining traction within Arcadia’s geographical area. With the state's growing interest in the sport, Arcadia’s fencing teams will join a select group, becoming the fourth men’s and fifth women’s fencing programs in Pennsylvania. A nationwide search for a head coach is set to kick off this winter, aiming for successful placement by April 2026.

Brad Suchorski, USA Fencing's Director of Membership, Service & Growth, highlighted the impact of this addition, noting that it not only benefits student-athletes but also represents a win for community access to collegiate athletics. In a time when many programs face contraction, Arcadia is paving a new path that opens up roster spots in fencing, which is a commendable step forward.

The university's commitment to athletics is evident through continuous improvements and renovations to facilities such as the Kuch Center and Hatfield Ice Arena. This infrastructural investment has coincided with a surge in student-athlete enrollment, more than doubling from approximately 250 to nearly 600 since 2011. Impressively, these athletes maintain a combined cumulative GPA of around 3.3, showcasing their academic commitment alongside athletic pursuits.

For anyone interested in learning more about the Department of Athletics and Recreation at Arcadia University, further information can be found at arcadiaknights.com. The introduction of men's and women's fencing is merely the latest example of how Arcadia University continues to prioritize student-athlete welfare and growth, ensuring a rich and fulfilling educational and extracurricular environment.