Due to other commitments, including ROTC and academics, senior Chris Pfarr has not fought in a match for the Irish this season. But even though he has been less involved in this year's team on the strip, he still leads and supports off of it.
"My individual goal is to graduate. I am taking 23 credits and doing everything I can to stay afloat and have fun senior year," Pfarr said. "I live with four other fencers and try to support them when they need it. With this up coming weekend I will be there to support my team and watch them kick [expletive]."
He said that the team has high expectations every year and this year is no different. He said they have done everything to achieve their goals.
"Our team goals are to dominate NCAAs, maintain a demanding training schedule and continue to represent Notre Dame as a tier one competitive sport both on and off the strip," Pfarr said.
Pfarr said Notre Dame has become the standard of collegiate fencing and few schools can really threaten the Irish.
"There are very few schools that can compete with Notre Dame," Pfarr said.
He also said being the top dog does have its drawbacks. The team knows their opponents will be very motivated and give their best effort.
"You treat every bout like it is separate from the others. Each opponent is different and of course they want to win," Pfarr said. "The only thing you can do is prepare yourself before the match both mentally and physically so you are able to overcome any diversity you face on the strip."
The fencing team will next be in action this weekend at the Northwestern Duals in Evanston, Ill.