DURHAM, N.C. - The Duke fencing program and head coach Omar Elgeziry announced the addition of four-time Olympian Shaimaa Elgammal to the coaching staff as an assistant coach overseeing foil.Â
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A native of Egypt, Elgammal competed in the women's foil events at the 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics, becoming her nation's first female competitor to appear in four Olympic games. Elgammal was an individual fencer in all four games for Egypt while adding team responsibilities in 2008 and 2012. She helped Egypt place eighth as a team in 2008 and ninth in 2012. Her highest individual finish was 23rd in 2004.Â
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"I'm super excited about Shaimaa joining the program," Elgeziry said. "She brings a wealth of experience to our foil team, being a four-time Olympian and the Egyptian national coach. We are thrilled to welcome her on board. I'm looking forward to working with her. Go Duke!"
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Shaimaa Elgammal joins Duke fencingÂ
As the national coach, Elgammal helped Yara El Sharkawy to the 2021 Olympic games and to more than 20 African medals and more than eight Mediterranean medals. Elgammal also served as the head coach at Katameya Petorsport Club from 2016-23.Â
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A Certified Expert Foil Coach from the International Fencing Federation (FIE), Elgammal has attended three FIE International Training Camps. She also went through the International Coaching Enrichment Certificate Program in 2018 and graduated with honors. As part of the program, participants presented on improving coaching infrastructure in their home countries.Â
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Elgammal gained additional international experience last August by leading a course in Lebanon for coaches' education. This course was conducted in collaboration with the Olympic Solidarity and the International Olympic Committee.
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With the Blue Devils, Elgammal and the squad will open fall competition Oct. 26-27 at the Temple Open.
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 Duke Centennial In 2024, Duke celebrates its Centennial, marking one hundred years since Trinity College became Duke University. Duke will use this historic milestone to deepen the understanding of its history, inspire pride and strengthen bonds and partnerships, and prepare for a second century of continued excellence and impactful leadership. To learn more, please visit 100.duke.edu
