This season, the Christian Brothers Academy fencing team showed that they can compete with the best in the state. The Colts finished with a 5-2 record in the regular season, before winning another match in the opening round of the NJSIAA Team Tournament.

Additionally, all three weapon groups finished with a winning record, with the Saber squad finishing at 47-34, Foil at 49-32, and Epee at 45-36.

While many CBA fencers shined this season, sophomore Sam Belokon earned the recognition as the CBA Digital Network’s Fencer of the Season.

“It is a great honor and it will move my confidence in a positive direction,” Belokon said about being named Fencer of the Year.

Belokon finished the season with an impressive 19-2 record, and it goes without saying that he proved himself as one of the most dominant fencers in the state. The sophomore was also one of four CBA fencers to qualify for the individual state championship.

Belokon’s foil squad was the top CBA weapon in this year’s Cetrulo Tournament, which is one of the toughest tournaments each winter.

While CBA ultimately fell short of their goal of a state title, there were plenty of positives to take from this season. Many of the CBA fencers showed extreme talent this year, such as freshman Luke Sayer, who had a breakout season with a record of 11-8 in Saber.

While hard work and dedication has played a very significant role in Belokon’s success, he knows that the mental side of fencing is important to his success.

“My approach to my matches is always positive,” he said. “Before a match, I go in thinking I'm going to win.”

Another x-factor in Belokon’s success is the impact that head coach Ali Shafaie has had on his fencing career.

“Coach Shafaie has been the best coach I have ever talked to, met, and connected with,” he said. “He basically changed my whole life of fencing and I am forever grateful for him.”

Shafaie gave Belokon an opportunity as a freshman in 2024 and he has not looked back.

“Sam was given the responsibility of the A-strip as a freshman, and after going 18-7 in his first season, he finished 19-2 this year,” Shafaie said. “Sam started the season 2-2, but won 17 straight bouts. He has raised his game and I hope to see him continue to inspire our foil fencers to improve so we can continue to be a top team in the state.”

With Belokon leading the charge, the Colts’ fencing team proved themselves as fierce competitors in 2025. Through team chemistry, determination and exceptional coaching, it is safe to say that they will be ready to face the best of the best next season.