Temple University Women’s fencing head coach Nikki Franke earned her 600th career win
on Jan. 31 with the team’s performance at the Northwestern Duals in Chicago. Now in her 38th season as director of fencing and women’s
foil coach at Temple, Franke has an overall record of 600-157-1.

The 600th win is just one more milestone in Franke’s remarkable
career. Since 1972, she has led the Owls to 34 postseason appearances,
including a championship in the 1991-92 season. In 1995, she was
inducted into Temple’s Hall of Fame. Franke has also received national
recognition of her success through her induction into the United States
Fencing Association Hall of Fame in 1998, and four United States Fencing
Coaches Association Women’s Fencing Coach of the Year honors in
1983, 1987, 1988 and 1991.

As an athlete, Franke’s record is equally impressive. She was a
member of the 1976 and 1980 Olympic teams, and was the National Foil Champion in 1975 and 1980.

She is also an associate professor of public health at Temple and received
her Ed.D from the university in 1988.

Last season, Franke and her team finished eighth at the NCAA tournament,
with an overall record of 22-7. The Owls are now ranked
eighth nationally, with a 12-6 record, but Franke and the team are working to finish in the top five. The Owls will host their final home meet of the season on Feb. 27 at McGonigle Hall.

—Elizabeth DiPardo