Coach Joseph Zanko III is entering his fourth season as the head coach of Drew University’s men’s and women’s fencing team in the 2025-2026 season. From the start, Zanko has dedicated himself as a coach, not only committed to building winning teams but also to fostering growth, resilience and a sense of community among his student-athletes.
Before joining Drew University, Zanko successfully coached at the high school level, highlighted by leading Montgomery High School to a state championship title. These experiences shaped his approach to developing a positive team culture and mentorship as a whole. Reflecting on his career, Zanko advises, “Find Mentors. Coaches want to help other coaches.”
Since joining Drew, Zanko has worked towards developing a student-centered environment that values both competition and personal development. He’s known for his approachable and grounded leadership style, as well as his focus on helping his fencers reach their full potential both competitively and personally. Under his guidance, Drew’s fencing program has shown steady improvement, with athletes growing stronger each year.
Zanko’s coaching philosophy emphasizes respect, consistency and building confidence in individual fencers and the team as a whole. He encourages his fencers to trust the process and support each other through challenges, reflecting a team culture that values discipline and unity. His example reinforces that success means more than victories; it’s about the effort and growth that shape an athlete’s experience.
Beyond the fencing strip, Zanko has a variety of personal interests that reveal his curiosity and creativity. He is a classically trained vocalist and enjoys playing guitar, both hobbies that reflect the same precision and patience he brings to coaching.
As the 2025-2026 season begins, Coach Zanko remains focused on supporting Drew fencers through building confidence, sharpening their skills and representing the university with pride. His leadership continues to shape competitive results. Looking to the future, Zanko intends to instill in the student-athletes who train under his guidance a mindset that prepares them for challenges beyond fencing.
Nate Ferrone is a first year who is currently exploring his interests.
