Ferocious Fencer: Aaron Kogan

Aaron Kogan ’17, captain of Boys Varsity Fencing, began fencing six years ago and has competed as a Hilltopper since seventh grade. 

Before coming to Hopkins, Kogan fenced for Fencing Academy of Westchester and he continues to fence there year-round.

Kogan boasts a National Championship in the U14 division along with two consecutive Connecticut State High School Individual Championships. He placed fifth in the U17 Cadet Division last year. He also ranked in the top-32 in the U19 Junior Division as well as in international competitions in Denmark and Austria. 

Kogan’s leadership roles and achievements extend beyond the piste. Teammate Kenny Lu ’19 said, “He’s a great fencer, but he’s also a Harmonaire and a Science Olympiad captain and I look up to him as a person.” Coach Emile Harris described him as committed and devoted. “Aaron takes fencing very seriously and he has found a way to balance his commitments to the team, school, and his individual fencing career. He cares deeply about the Hopkins Fencing Team and it is fitting that he was elected as a captain for the upcoming season. It has been a pleasure coaching Aaron and his senior season will be bittersweet.” Kogan’s extensive experience in fencing is one of many attributes that he offers to the team’s success. 

Kogan takes on a large task this year as he leads a team exceeding fifty members. However, he is optimistic about the circumstances: “I look forward to leading such a big team with many new fencers, along with co-captains Tatiana Niebuhr and Duncan Tam, as the season progresses!”

While Kogan’s fencing career at Hopkins is coming to a close, he does not show signs of stopping anytime soon: “ I definitely plan on fencing after Hopkins! One of the nice things about fencing is that you can practically do it at any age – including well into retirement. I hope to continue fencing for many years to come.”