"The sabre is a brand new event for women in the NCAA," he said. "We are a little behind in our training with it, but all we need is time."
On Saturday, the Crimson will enter its first Ivy League meeting of the young season facing Columbia at home. The match-up figures to be a difficult one for the Crimson, as the Lions field a strong squad, particularly on the women's side.
Additionally, the men's team will fence against Tufts this weekend.
Brand is not worried about his team's chances in either contest.
"We just need to keep everyone together and maintain our focus," he said. "Columbia will be tough. But our goal is to ultimately compete for the National Championship, so in that sense, [Saturday's match] will be just another meet."