BREAKING NEWS: Immaculata High School Names Dr. Anthony Kestler as Head Fencing Coach

Somerville, NJ — Immaculata High School proudly announces the hiring of Dr. Anthony Kestler, NCAA Champion, Hall of Famer, and seasoned coach, as its new Head Fencing Coach. This significant addition comes as the Spartans enter their second season competing at the NJSIAA varsity-affiliated level and signals the school’s commitment to elevating its fencing program.

A graduate of Columbia University, Dr. Kestler secured the 1969 NCAA Individual Foil Championship, earned First Team All-America honors in 1970, and achieved multiple NCAA podium finishes during his collegiate career. His fencing dominance started early, with six consecutive Metropolitan Junior Olympic Foil titles, sweeping the 1967 Metropolitan Under-19 championships in foil, épée, and sabre, and winning the New York City Individual Foil Championship that same year.

Kestler's competitive prowess extended to the international stage, where he earned a spot on the USA Foil Team for the World University Games and continued fencing competitively well into his senior years, earning a silver medal at the 2009 New Jersey Senior Olympics.

Since 2008, he has been a key figure at the Freehold Fencing Academy, mentoring numerous athletes who have gone on to achieve success at state and national levels. His coaching is marked by a blend of technical mastery and inspiring leadership.

Outside of competition, Dr. Kestler has built a distinguished professional career as a practicing dentist in Plainfield, New Jersey. Columbia University honors his legacy through the annual Kestler Award, given to a varsity fencer exemplifying leadership and sportsmanship. His induction into the NCAA Hall of Fame solidifies his standing as one of the sport’s most respected figures.

Athletic Director Tom Gambino said: "We’re very pleased to have Dr. Anthony Kestler join us as head coach. His long history in fencing and deep knowledge of the sport will be a real boost for our team. I’m confident he’ll help our Spartans reach new levels. This is an important move for Immaculata fencing."

With Dr. Kestler at the helm, Immaculata High School’s fencing program is poised for rapid growth, aiming to become one of New Jersey’s premier high school teams under his expert guidance.