Wayne State University’s graduate-assistant coach, Ahmed Elsayed, has been named the Men’s Team Assistant Coach of the Year by the Central Collegiate Fencing Conference (CCFC). Elsayed played a significant role in leading both the men’s and women’s epee squads to top finishes at the CCFC tournament, achieving third and second place, respectively.
Elsayed’s contribution extended to mentoring his brother, Mahmoud Elsayed, who competed in the NCAA Championships as a freshman and secured a tied-for-third position, earning First-Team All-American honors. Under Elsayed’s guidance, four epeeists received all-conference accolades, with Mahmoud Elsayed and Shuayb Dinkins representing the men’s team, and Reka Galfalvy and Salma Abdrabou featuring for the women’s squad.
Ahmed Elsayed expressed his sentiments saying, “Being named Assistant Coach of the Year in my first season of collegiate coaching is special, but what means more is everything that we went through as a team this season. I’ve seen these athletes grow and fight for each other every day. This award is just a reflection of how special this group really is. I’m proud to be part of a program that puts so much heart into everything we do.”
Wayne State’s Head Coach, Andy Tulleners, also highlighted Elsayed’s impact, stating, “This season’s successes have been exceptional. A team can create success with good athletes and can create success with good coaches. When a synergy is created between the two, you see the triumphs we have seen this season. Ahmed (Elsayed) has been instrumental in helping create those successes with the epee squads.”
