THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 World Silver for Mepstead

President’s Report pp4–5 World Championship Report pp6–11 Interview with Marcus Mepstead pp12–13

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 1

OCTOBER 2019 Editor: Karim Bashir British Fencing 1 Baron’s Gate WELCOME TO THE SWORD 33–35 Rothschild Road London W4 5HT T: 020 8742 3032 E: [email protected] Print Cambrian Printers Llanbadarn Fawr Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 3TN T: 01970 613059 Typeset by: JS Typesetting Ltd T: 01656 788551 E: [email protected]

Advertising World Champs Men’s Foil Podium (Augusto Bizzi) Karim Bashir M: 07855 252546 E: [email protected] British Fencing accepts no 4 PRESIDENT’S EPORT responsibility for the contents of advertisements and reserves the INTERNATIONAL NEWS right to refuse inclusion. 6 World Championships 2019 Report The Sword, a quarterly magazine Johnny Davis – Team Manager founded in 1948, is distributed to Jon Salfied – Head Sabre Coach all individual and club members of British Fencing and its affiliates. Maxine McCombie – Aspiration Manager It can also be obtained on subscription – UK £20. Overseas 12 FEATURES airmail £26 – direct from HQ. Behind the Mask with Marcus Mepstead Contributions are welcome. We talk to Marcus Mepstead about life, fencing and Photographs should include the his World silver medal names of those pictured and the Gillian Donaldson, MBE photographer. Great Britain’s only fencing Olympic Gold Medallist Views expressed in The Sword shares her story do not necessarily reflect those of British Fencing. No part of the 17 DEVELOPMENT magazine may be reproduced without permission from the Clubs & Regions editor/photographer. Education Coaching Cover photo: World Silver for ROUND UP Marcus Mepstead 30 Photo: Augusto Bizzi 33 REVIEWS Safeguarding Hotline Liz Behnke, Equality and RESULTS Safeguarding Manager 35 M: 07526 003030

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NEXT DEADLINE: 4th NOVEMBER 2019 OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 3 PRESIDENT’S REPORT PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Our International Relations (IR) team off in 2012, has remained in place. Like continues to make its contribution to Peter he has no plans to retire from his the future of fencing and I am always FIE role and he also continues at home as pleased and proud to see GBR playing its the Chair of the BF Rules Committee. part. These professional and committed Steve was appointed as an FIE Member individuals – from GBR and around the of Honour in 2013. world – work quietly away, often behind the scenes and there’s no doubt that Dr Clare Halsted has served on the FIE without such people the sport of fencing Medical Commission since her election would no longer be able to flourish. in 2004. This commission has a wide range of responsibilities of which safety In previous issues I have often made is always high on the agenda. An example reference to the vital contribution made is their recent push for an assessment of by all our volunteers but on this occasion Peter Jacobs ways to decrease the risk of injuries from I’d like to shine a spotlight on our four broken sabre blades, which is now being long-serving FIE post-holders – Peter The FIE recognised Peter’s sterling investigated by the SEMI Commission. Jacobs, Steve Higginson, Clare Halsted service by appointing him as a Member of Another topic always on their agenda is and Janet Huggins. Honour in 2000. Forty-two years and still the complicated issue of gender change. counting is a remarkable achievement. This is reviewed every year, or as and Steve Higginson is a stalwart of the when appropriate, with the FIE currently Rules Commission and is currently its following the IOC guidelines. President. The Rules Commission is In addition to her Medical Commission largely a reactive commission, reacting activities Clare was appointed as Head to proposals for rule changes and giving of the Anti-Doping Panel in 2018. As such an opinion prior to the Congress at which she is responsible for: the changes will be voted upon. • Ensuring that the FIE complies with all In addition Steve’s recent activities have WADA standards which has required included the setting up of the new Rules the expansion of the FIE Anti-Doping Steve Higginson, Janet Huggins, Peter Restructuring Working Group for which Education programme in preparation Jacobs & Clare Halsted he has arranged and chaired a number of for the new WADA education standard meetings both in the UK and Switzerland. is our longest-serving • Ongoing liaison with the International Peter Jacobs Steve reports that the Technical and FIE post-holder. His current role is on Testing Authority to manage the FIE’s Organisation sections are now complete the Legal Commission and includes Anti-Doping testing programme and he is currently working on the responsibility for maintaining and Materials section. As always, Clare is a very busy bee: updating the FIE statutes, establishing disciplinary committees, reviewing the A fluent French speaker, Steve is • She is the lead person for the updating statutes of prospective new federations often asked for translation services, of the Medical Handbook for World and dealing with any legal issues that not only for the output from his own Championships come up within the FIE. commission but also for other ad hoc • She is a member of the working group requests such as data for referee exams. for mask security, ensuring that Peter is also a member of the Rules He also acts as an FIE Supervisor at regulations are updated in order to Restructuring Working Group and World Cup events with his most recent make mask fittings safer the Safeguarding Working Group. He trip being to the women’s foil event in regularly acts as Supervisor at FIE World Tauberbischofsheim in May. Cups and last season travelled to events in France, Spain and Germany. Steve was elected to the Rules Commission in 1989 and other than a year With continuous service for 42 years I think it’s worth listing Peter’s FIE history: 1977 – 1984 Statutes Commission 1984 – 1988 Executive Committee & Statutes Commission 1988 – 1992 Statutes Commission 1992 – 2000 Executive Committee 2000 – 2012 Executive Committee as Treasurer 2012 – present day Legal Commission Steve Higginson Clare Halsted 4 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 • She is the Medical Commission delighted to be invited to this prestigious representative on the Safeguarding event and to assist with presenting some working group of their spectacular trophies at the gala • She is the Medical Commission dinner. I was also pleased to be asked to representative on environmental field a President’s Team in the triangular issues following the IOC and UN initiatives regarding the role of International Federations and has recently delivered a session about this to the FIE Commission and Council Meetings in Bucharest • In June she delivered an Anti-Doping briefing session to a group of FIE Supervisors in order to improve the Janet Huggins Anti-Doping processes at World Cup events and she updates the FIE’s Anti- Doping Rules along with information on mask safety systems, sabre gloves and foil chest guards soft outer layer the FIE website. President Philbin presenting the In addition Clare is frequently appointed Janet is regularly invited to attend Inter Services Triangular trophy as a Medical Delegate at the FIE’s major World Championships, either as a SEMI to the Captain of the RAF team championships and last season found delegate running weapon control and the Flt Lt Greensides the time to officiate at the 2018 Veterans call room, or in order to run the stand for World Championships in Livorno, Italy the FIE’s Equipment Donation project. and the 2019 Cadet and Junior World She has recently returned from the Championships in Torun, Poland. Senior World Championships in Budapest and was the FIE Supervisor at events in Taking into account her numerous BF France and Switzerland. activities at home, one might reasonably ask Clare when she finds the time to eat At home – along with husband Peter or sleep! – Janet is a tireless worker providing weapon control facilities at numerous BF Janet Huggins has been in post on the events. Long may that continue! SEMI Commission since 2008 and – like Clare – is a busy bee with a diverse role. As usual much of our IR liaison takes place at the major FIE and EFC events, A major responsibility of this commission where there are opportunities to talk to is homologation (ratification and the Presidents and General Secretaries of President Philbin presenting the Master approval) of all new equipment including the other member countries. During the Swordsman trophy to LCpl Sadiq blades, clothing, masks, video refereeing past season I attended: systems and management software. After the equipment has been tested • the FIE Annual Congress in Paris, as matches on the following day. (A full the technical analysis is sent to each Head of Delegation report appears later in this issue.) • the Junior & Cadet World member of the SEMI for scrutiny and Finally – and saving the best till last – I Championships in Torun checking. Members then vote for have to mention another spectacular • the European Fencing Confederation approval or raise their concerns and the result from our men foilists. Having (EFC) Congress in Dusseldorf – followed agreed recommendations are forwarded watched Richard Kruse gain his silver by the European Championships – as to the FIE Executive Committee for final medal in last year’s World Championships Head of Delegation approval. in Wuxi, I had the enormous pleasure • the Senior World Championships in of seeing Marcus Mepstead follow suit In addition to her normal responsibilities Budapest Janet serves as the secretary for her in this year’s World Championships in commission which includes taking Georgina Usher, as CEO, attended the Budapest. I watched Marcus all day, accurate minutes of the meetings and FIE and EFC Congresses as GBR’s 2nd starting with his spectacular victory in acting as the liaison point for information Delegate. the tableau of 64 when – as 64th seed – he eliminated the no. 1 seed, World no. 1 and and communications with other Georgina is leading the way with one of reigning World Champion Alessio Foconi members. the FIE’s current priorities which is to from Italy. Marcus went from strength Janet’s recent activities include: establish a safeguarding framework for to strength during the day and it was the FIE. Georgina, Clare and Peter are all • Working with Steve Higginson and his evident that he has made a real break- members of the new FIE Safeguarding Rules Restructuring Working Group through. working group with responsibility for – having contributed to the review of implementing its policies, procedures and Marcus deserves much praise for his both the Technical and Organisation training. Georgina is recognised as an achievement and as before, it was an sections she is now very much involved expert in this field and was appointed as additional pleasure to receive so many with the tidying up and indexing of the one of the two Safeguarding Officers that congratulations from other nations who Material annexes were put in place for the first time at the were delighted on Marcus’s behalf. In • Assisting with the updating of the 2018 Junior & Cadet World Championship this pre-Olympic year it is a very positive European CEN regulations for sports in Torun. sign to have two consecutive World safety equipment – Janet is part of Championship silver medallists and I am the shadow committee working In the UK I attended a number of junior much looking forward to attending the alongside representatives from fencing and senior events at both domestic and Tokyo Games. manufacturers and test laboratories international level, with my last event of • Involvement with the inspection and the season being the UK Armed Forces Hilary Philbin approval of the prototypes for new Fencing Centenary weekend. I was September 2019 OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 5 INTERNATIONAL NEWS INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Marcus firstly drew Kontochristopoulos WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2019 REPORT from Greece and once again struggled to find his natural rhythm but kept calm Photos: Augusto Bizzi and patient, grinding out a 15-11 win over an experienced opponent. In his second The 2019 Fencing World Championships tactics let Mohamed back into the fight he was drawn again Serri from took place in Budapest, Hungary 15- fight. Once Mohamed took the lead Slovakia who has caused problems for a 23 July. Dubbed “A Kind of Magic”, this she never relinquished it and won number of quality fencers over the last amazing event was deemed one of the 15-12. Although this could be seen as a couple of seasons. Once again Marcus best ever. The competition started with missed opportunity, Kate’s fencing has stuck to his game plan and remained three days of qualification followed by matured well over the season and top patient emerging with a 15-10 win which three days of individual competitions 64 performances at senior international qualified him for the 64. and three more days featuring the team competitions should now be her events. consistent minimum standard.

Kate Beardmore stormed through the Marcus Mepstead – Game Face 1st round Here, Team Manager, Johnny Davis, Head In the second round of preliminaries, Ben Sabre Coach, Jon Salfield and Operations, had a tough fight against Chinese Taipei’s Efficiency & Aspiration Manager, Maxine Men’s Foil Individual Ou but adjusted his tactics intelligently McCombie provide their reports on the Day one of this event was a mixed bag during the fight and went through 15-13. British team’s efforts. of results with James Davis putting in a seemingly unstoppable performance as he destroyed the opposition in his Foil & Epee Report by GB pool to win all six fights. Ben Peggs Team Manager, Johnny fenced intelligently and solidly to finish with 5V/1D. However Marcus Mepstead Davis struggled to find his rhythm and timing, Women’s Foil Individual finishing with 2V/3D. As a world top 16 fencer Richard Kruse had an automatic GBR had one representative in this event, bye to the round of 64. Kate Beardmore who was coming into these Championships off the back of After the performances in the poules, a good top 32 result at the European James progressed straight into the 64. Championships in Dusseldorf. Ben only just missed out on automatic Ben Peggs Celebrates qualification but had a bye in the first In the round of 64, Ben was drawn Kate fenced very solidly in her first round of preliminary eliminations and against Giacon from The Netherlands – a round winning five of her six fights. She Marcus had to start in the first. young emerging fencer who finished in fenced with composure and maturity the top 16 at the Senior Europeans earlier demonstrating the perfect mental in the season. Ben unfortunately gave approach to the first round of a World away too much of the initiative in the Championships in which the standard of early stages of the fight and having fallen fencers can vary enormously. This gave behind had to chase the fight which her a seeding of 10th meaning that she suited Giacon’s style. The fight was lost progressed straight into the 64 draw on 15-8. Overall, following a shaky start to the second day. the season Ben has had a very solid end There she was drawn against the and should go into next season with experienced Mohamed from Hungary. increased confidence and self-belief. Kate controlled the fight well until the mid-point where a momentary James drew Pauty from France, a loss of focus alongside a change of James Davis also went straight through previous World Cup winner and a 6 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 member of the newly crowned French Kellner worked hard on a clear game plan 12. Following the match, Italian Team European Championship winning team. in advance of the fight. Marcus executed Manager, Andrea Cipressa told me “we James continued where he left off in the the plan perfectly, stunning Foconi to love your beautiful fencer”. Well deserved qualifying pool and established a strong open up a 10-2 and then a 12-3 lead, praise indeed from a very respected lead over his opponent. Unfortunately eventually closing out the match 15-9. expert. You can watch the fight here, just at the stage where he should have https://tinyurl.com/y4b7tlls (at 44.50). This victory over a top seed set the tone closed out the fight Pauty gained back for the wider competition. The round of In the final Marcus was drawn against some critical points. With this renewed 16 ultimately featured only two of the top Lefort from France. After a physically confidence the French fencer used 16 ranked fencers in the World. demanding route to this stage, Marcus his experience to claw back the hits, was noticeably fatigued. Comparatively eventually winning 15-14. James will The big challenge for any fencer after Lefort started the match with certainly see this as a missed opportunity pulling off what is perceived to be a considerable energy and speed, having at the end of a challenging season but shock result is to be able to hold form had a different journey through the he should also take confidence from his and to keep emotions in check for the knock-out stages. In the 16 his opponent world class performance in the pools and next fight. In addition, fencers must be Kim (KOR) was forced to withdrew from in the majority of his elimination fight. in peak physical condition to ensure the match due to an injury, securing that they can bring that same level of Richard came straight into the 64 and Lefort’s place into the next match and a intensity to subsequent matches. was drawn against Son from Korea. comfortable 15-7 semi-final win against Son started very strongly, establishing In the round of 32, Marcus was composed Russian, Zherebchenko. a 3-0 lead but Richard soon found his and disciplined against the Czech rhythm and took the lead towards the Republic fencer Choupenitch. Despite end of the first period. Son continued to falling behind in the middle period of the apply consistent pressure with Richard fight, Marcus stuck to his pre-agreed responding in kind and as a result, the tactical strategy, winning 15-13. lead changed a number of times. In the In the 16 he was drawn against Arslanov. end it came down to just a couple of The Russian is one of the most consistent unsuccessful actions from Richard which team fencers on the circuit and on meant he just didn’t score the required the day he was in full flow, using his hits at crucial points in the fight. After a athleticism and movement to great real battle Son emerged victorious 15- effect. Once again Marcus stuck to his 12. Son eventually won a bronze medal game plan, as agreed with his coach and reflecting his form and quality. despite another physically challenging Marcus – the hit of the tournament? fight looked very comfortable in closing The intense physical nature of Marcus’s out the 15-12 victory. day and in particular the semi-final In the 8 Marcus was drawn against was clear to see from the start of the another physically imposing athlete in gold medal match. Marcus struggled to Siess from Poland. The quarterfinal fight control the athleticism of Lefort, who at the World Championships can present was ruthless and focused on capitalising a major psychological barrier, as the on Marcus’s fatigue going on to win 15-6. winning fencer knows that they will be The final was by no means a walkover guaranteed a medal. Once again, Marcus and I am confident that Marcus will have showed his level of professionalism taken a lot forwards from this match. by preparing physically, tactically and Asked what contributed to his fantastic emotionally for the match. Dominating performance, Marcus thanked the the fight throughout and in total control, tireless support of his parents, his coach he closed out a comfortable 15-9 win. (both current and past), alongside the Now he was guaranteed at least a bronze wider support team that has helped him Richard Kruse faced a tough draw medal. over the season and especially during After claiming the Silver in 2018, Richard Marcus’s semi-final draw was against the Championships. His performance will be disappointed in this result, but Son who had earlier defeated Richard was a result of a culmination of his as always, will be looking ahead to the Kruse. The fight that took place is technical and tactical abilities alongside remaining events in the qualification already being referenced in the fencing a professional approach to all aspects of period. After a career spanning over two community as a classic. With both his preparation both on and off piste. decades and a succession of podium fencers showing total commitment, it places in the last two seasons, Richard’s was a physically bruising encounter yet Men’s Epee Individual focus will undoubtedly now be on his with some of the most beautiful and GBR had two representatives in this preparation for the first World Cup in classically executed hits seen at this event, Phillip Marsh and Elliott Grover. Bonn. level. If you haven’t seen the section of the fight where Marcus hits Son with Philip finished with 3V/3D in a poule Following his difficult qualifying rounds a disengage lunge from a static start I that included eight fights which went Marcus was seeded 64th meaning he would encourage you to watch and learn to priority. He fenced solidly showing was drawn against the Italy’s World from it. glimpses of the quality that he possesses Number 1, Foconi. The Italian has been at this level. amazingly consistent over the last couple Three times in the fight Son was so of seasons but Marcus had a good record physically exhausted that he reverted to Elliott too had a solid qualifying against him, albeit primarily in 5-hit dropping onto his knees in an attempt poule finishing with 3V/3D including a matches, including a recent win against to regain some energy. Marcus kept on significant win against Bida (RUS), the him at the European Championships in task and never gave his opponent an eventual individual silver medallist and Dusseldorf. Marcus and his coach Dan inch winning this amazing fight 15- two 5-4 defeats. OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 7 Philip had a bye through to the preliminary 128 and after a tricky middle are potentially going to have a major preliminary 128 where he beat Dikov section of the fight showed great tactical influence on qualification for Tokyo 2020. from Bulgaria 15-13. He then went on to a astuteness and confidence to change GBR started off well opening out a 10-6 comfortable 15-7 win against Patterson her tactics and subsequently run out a lead but the Koreans put in a couple of from Cuba, thus qualifying for the 64. comfortable win, 15-11. strong fights and GBR went into the 5th match 20-18 behind. From that stage on, the team were chasing the match, as the Koreans fenced intelligently and efficiently to keep a couple of hits ahead after each fight. Despite a great final push, the team could not regain the lead and ended up losing 45-41.

The 9-16 matches now became the focus. The team reset from their earlier defeat Qualification Hall and responded superbly beating Ukraine 45-34, then Egypt 45-35 before just Katrina Smith Taylor earlier this season There, he was drawn against the world falling short in losing 45-41 to Japan to number 5, Park from Korea, one of the In the preliminary 64 she drew Hoppe finish in 10th place. strongest male epee fencers on the Montanaro (CAN). Struggling to find her circuit. Phillip was always behind in the rhythm in the fight and having to chase Whilst this final placing is short of fight but never out of touch. Park used her opponent, she didn’t really gain a the result hoped for, the objective of all his experience to keep control of the foothold, eventually losing 15-7. Over qualifying for Tokyo 2020 remains the fight, eventually closing it out 15-10. time, with more experience and patience primary focus and one which the team is committed to achieving. The quality In both the Euros and World this is the type of fight that Katrina of fencers within this team is evident Championships and throughout the will convert to the win. Demonstrating and both on and off the piste as much as season, Phillip has shown that he is very significant improvements over this possible is being done to ensure that the comfortable at 64 level. With his new season and with a solid performance team is prepared and focused on the goal training and coaching arrangement in both at the European and World ahead. Italy I believe that he can very easily step Championships, Katrina has clearly up a performance level, putting himself shown that she has much to offer at this As both Chef de Mission for the in a strong position going into the end of level. Championships and as Foil Team the qualification period. On the second day of the WE competition Manager, I am very proud and pleased with not only Marcus’s superb individual Elliott had a bye through to the 128 where Susan drew Gonzalez Sandoval (CUB) in result but also that we achieved an he lost to Gunput from Mauritius who he her 64 fight. Fencing with great focus and increased level of success across all of had lost 5-4 to in the poule. Elliott could authority to control the fight from start, the weapons. see this as a missed opportunity but he Susan successfully closed out the match 15-10. should reflect on solid performances From a squad of 17, GBR had 10 in both his first European and World In the 32 she then drew the world fencers qualify for the 64 stage, with Championships. With intelligent number 9 Kolobova (RUS), a very representatives in each event (Men’s and implementation of the lessons learnt experienced and seasoned fencer. Susan Women’s Foil, Epee and Sabre), which is from this season I would expect Elliott fenced superbly from the beginning of especially pleasing and demonstrates the to deliver improving results in the the fight, pressuring her opponent with capabilities and continued development remainder of the Olympic Qualifying a strong technical and tactic game plan, across all 6 weapons. I hope that cycle. causing both her opponent and her the experience and results from the coach serious concerns. In the middle Championships in Budapest this year Women’s Epee Individual of the fight the Russian began to regain will both inspire our athletes to greater GBR had two representatives in the dominance but Susan, using her excellent achievements and inspire others to Women’s Epee individual, Susan Sica and footwork, forced Kolobova towards the support the work BF is doing, with the Katrina Taylor Smith. back of the piste. Capitalising on double help of sponsors and stakeholders to hit opportunities, Susan traded with her help our GBR fencers be the best they can Susan, off the back of a very strong U23 opponent hit for hit. It was only in the last be. season had a fantastic first round poule hits that the Russian was able to take the Whilst BF will do all we can to help finishing with 5V/0D, giving her direct advantage closing out the fight to win athletes at both major Championships qualification through to the 64. 15-13. and throughout the season, we expect Susan has had a great season on both our Senior elite athletes to approach the the U23 and Senior circuits, clearly 2019-20 season with an understanding demonstrating her young talent and what that we are in a results-driven she is capable of achieving, showing business when it comes to this level maturity and a professional approach of competition and selection for major which will count for a lot as her career Senior Championships. develops. To any athlete seeking future selection at this level, I would encourage you to Men’s Foil Team review your season, identify areas to In the 32 GBR drew Belgium, winning work on, communicate in depth with your Susan Sica Prepares 45-32 showing good composure and a coaches and support team and commit Katrina also started very strongly and clear game plan, with each of the four to a professional and focused plan for finished her poule with 4V/2D. She was team members getting to fence. The the 2019-2020 season as we lead into drawn against Andersen (AUS) in the team drew Korea in the 16, a team who another exciting Olympic year. 8 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 9 There is no room for self-handicapping spectators throughout the 10 days of experience on this stage showed through excuses or “if onlys”. Please don’t look competition attested. and Curtis couldn’t find his rhythm in the back on your career with any regrets middle of the piste, battling hard to the Introduced boxing-style onto the or excuses. Instead be personally end but losing 15-7. coloured and finals piste from the L64 accountable for delivering on your onwards, the athletes were treated to training and competition plan which Will faced the USA’s World number 1, Eli an atmosphere more akin to a football in turn will deliver performance Derschwitz in an exciting see-saw match. match than a fencing event and the improvement. The British sabreur took an early lead high-tech spectacular presentation with some strong attacks in the middle I would like to express my thanks to all of the event set a new benchmark for 4m and a couple of spectacular parries. the fencers and coaches who attended professionalism and excitement for the Building on a strong position after the the World Championships and engaged fencing World Championships. minute break, Deary was 11-7 up and in so well. To Jon Salfield and Pat Aiyenuro with a chance of producing the shock Inevitably, as at any championships, for all their time, effort and support, of the championships. The American there were triumphs mixed with to Sonia our amazing Sports Therapist suddenly found form and reeled off a disappointments, but both presented for her exceptional support and series of hits to lead 12-11. Deary rallied their opportunities for learning and professional approach and to the staff and matched his opponent to the end improvement across the squad. at British Fencing, particularly Georgina, but couldn’t turn over the lead and lost Maxine and Kim for all the great work 15-13 after one of the best performances they do behind the scenes, to UK Sport of his senior career so far. Although and the National Lottery, to Leon Paul disappointed not to win, Will took a lot for their continued support and to all of positives from his performance. “For those individuals who support the BF the first time I felt really comfortable Charity. against one of the world’s best fencers and I think with the experience and It took us from 1956 until 2018 to win a lessons gained from this match and World Championships medal for Great the championships in general, I have a Britain and now we have a second one growing belief I can mix it with the very in 2019. Why can’t we keep this run best around!” continuing?

Sabre Report by Head Will Deary Coach, Jon Salfield In both men’s and women’s sabre the Following British fencing’s successful stand-out individual fencers were the bid to UK Sport late in 2018, the GB men’s team’s youngest members, Will Deary sabre team became part of the new UK and Caitlin Maxwell. Will battled through Sport Aspiration Fund program. Although the pool rounds with a disciplined not directly funding athlete’s costs for performance, taking five victories from competitions or training, the fund has six matches. This gave Will a seeding given access to a range of benefits of 16 and an automatic bye to the top to men’s sabre and other disciplines 64 round to be held two days later. throughout the season. Professional Joining Will in the 64 was Curtis Miller, physio support at World Cups and who won three from six in the pools major Championships, funding for and dispatched his two DE opponents international training camps and support Mandov (BUL) and Tokunan (JAP) in style. for competition coaching were the main James Honeybone was unfortunate not Curtis Miller areas which the GB teams tapped into. to go direct to the 64, after five wins from The women’s sabre event saw promising The additional support available gave the six matches in the pool and a seeding of performances from a very young team. team a chance to prepare and compete 17. Sadly, James lost out in the second DE Aliya Itzkowitz took three wins in her more professionally and to be on the first round, as did JJ Webb who had taken two pool, with Maria Chart and Caitlin rung of UK Sport’s funding ladder. pool wins and a good DE victory against Shimamura (JAP), before going down to Maxwell winning four, whilst Kate The Aspiration fund is largely directed another Japanese fencer, Kaito Streets. Daykin managed two victories. Maria at individuals, disciplines and/or teams progressed to the second DE round, the considered to have a realistic chance of preliminary 64 but missed out to the qualification to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic very experienced Benitez of Venezuela. Games but crucially also to those who Aliya scored a confident win against can show evidence that they are inspiring Srinulad (THA) before going out to former communities with their story and are world top 16 fencer Yoon of Korea in positive role models in their field. the preliminary 64. Kate Daykin was eliminated in the first DE by World Cup After a long season of competition medallist Voronina of Ukraine but Caitlin around the world, the GB Men’s and Maxwell had a bye through the first Women’s Sabre team’s fencing year DE, and the youngest fencer in the GB culminated in an exciting and brilliantly squad then progressed to the 64 with presented World Championships in the Caitlin Maxwell an excellent 15-11 win over Rodriguez of beautiful Hungarian capital of Budapest Venezuela. at the end of July. Hungary, one of sabre Two days later, the two remaining GB fencing’s spiritual homes, is a nation male sabreurs prepared themselves to Again, after a two-day break, the where fencing is a high-profile sport, compete again. Curtis took on Italy’s remaining athletes lined up in the as the arena packed with thousands of World number 5 Luca Curatoli. Curatoli’s magnificent finals arena, and the young 10 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 British fencer faced world number 16 match was a key moment on the day, as Among some genuinely world class Navarro from Spain. Maxwell started we were aiming for a top 12 finish. We fencing, including the well fought well and was just one hit down at the rallied well to defeat a tough Canadian silver medal won by Marcus Mepstead, break. The Spanish fencer’s top-level team but injuries to Will Deary and Curtis there were several Personal Best experience shone through and after the Miller meant we were literally limping results from athletes demonstrating an break she ran out the winner 15-8. After home in the 13-14th place match! Our team increasing maturity in performances an excellent final junior season, in which has huge potential and we now need at this level and significantly GBR had Caitlin medalled at two World Cups and to pull together all the elements which representation in all 6 weapons in the the Junior European Championships, this make this team potentially so strong and second day of their competition. I am was an encouraging start to Caitlin’s work on controlling the middle 4 metres sure that the fencing community will be senor career. in key moments in matches. proud of the achievements of both the athletes and the support teams behind We were very lucky to have support from the scenes. UK Sport through the Aspiration fund, which enabled us to have the support of The funding cycles in Olympic sports a top-class physio in Sonia Fierro and to understandably focus on performances prepare with a pre-Championships camp at pinnacle events such as the World in London with Team Belgium plus a few Championships and 2019 didn’t days extra training in Budapest. disappoint. Once again we now are heading into an exciting period in the final These Championships have been months before an Olympic Games with spectacular and a wonderful experience opportunities to be capitalised on and for the athletes. As well as the fencing everything to play for. itself, the team learnt a lot about working as a unit and we left Budapest as a The wider funding environment stronger group as a result. continues to move to exploring ways James Honeybone that athletes and sports can give back to the community in return for the financial Despite just missing out on the 64 Aspiration and Medal support they receive, whether this is Maria Chart was also encouraged by from National Lottery or the taxpayer. It her progress, saying, “Of course we Support Review by is no longer only about performance – it is all came here to win but as a group about how athletes can share their epic we’re improving all the time and these Maxine McCombie journeys through calm waters and rough Championships have been inspiring Having been awarded both the Aspiration seas to inspire others and have a wider for lots of us. We can see how small and Medal Support Plan funding from greater social impact. I am delighted the gap is and we’re determined to UK Sport, there was the opportunity to that my role includes supporting a group keep progressing and learn from these maximise the team support, preparation of GBR athletes who whilst dedicated experiences”. and performance focus of this year’s to their performance goals can also Championship’s. As with any funding, The team events saw the women’s sabre reflect on their impact on a world outside there is the inevitable additional pressure team go down in the 32 to a very strong of their fencing environment. As we on both the National Governing Body Azerbaijan team, which recently placed work to engage in social projects and (NGB) and the athletes themselves. Yet 8th at the European Championships. The events together we can set a course we are privileged to be in a situation tight score-line of 45-38 showed once for both improved performances and where we have access to external again how narrow the gap between as we are reminded by the True Athlete funding to support our team. This this young team and some of the top Project, a BF delivery partner, a more funding was prioritised on additional performers is. compassionate society within sport. training opportunities, coaching, sports therapy and team management on the For more information about the ground to ensure that the GBR athletes Aspiration and Medal Support funding were able to focus on their preparation or to know more about the True Athlete and performances throughout these Project, please contact Maxine McCombie spectacular Championships in Budapest. [email protected].

JJ Webb In the men’s sabre event, GB defeated Colombia comfortably in the 32 before losing out to the eventual gold medallists South Korea in the 16. After the play-off matches, GB placed 14th out of 32 teams. Our tight 45-41 loss to the USA in the 9-16 With thanks to the Organising Committee & Referees

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 11 FEATURE FEATURE

to qualify for the Olympics and medal at The Sword: At what age did you start BEHIND THE MASK Tokyo 2020. I’ve got a lot of work to do on thinking you could compete at the WITH MARCUS my technique, footwork and other parts highest level and what changes did you of my game. So I’m excited to be pursuing make to achieve your goals? that. I’d love to finish this year, putting MEPSTEAD I used to do a lot of sports when I was the sport in a really positive place with a After his brilliance in Budapest we had younger and trying to balance them, lot going forwards. to talk to Marcus. We found out a little my schoolwork and my social life was bit more about the man behind the mask The Sword: Tokyo 2020 qualification is getting pretty tough. When I was 12 and that great result. Here’s what he had very much on everyone’s mind. How are I told my mum I wanted to go to the to say. you going to balance your focus on the Olympics and told some of my other team versus individual route? sports coaches I couldn’t continue with their sports. At that age I didn’t realise how much it was going to take to achieve it but that fire inside of me had been lit. The opportunity for London 2012 came and went and I missed out. I battled a lot with my confidence, trying to understand what it was going to take to switch from a good junior to a great senior. I made a lot of mistakes. Sometimes I enjoyed my social life a little too much. Sometimes I worked too hard on things outside of Marcus beats Son (KOR) for a place in sport but as I got older I knew I needed the final (Augusto Bizzi) to make the changes to put the sport at the foreground of where I was going The Sword: Now that you’ve had time From Instagram and train harder. Luckily I had started to to reflect on your World Championship I’m always trying to improve the physical surround myself with more and more silver medal winning performance, how elements of my game. I really want to inspirational people within sport and by do you feel about the result? be able to put in winning performances Rio 2016 I had a few people on my team I really wish I’d won the gold! No! I feel in the individual and then turn up to the who really helped me block out negative really proud of my achievements but I team event ready to go again. I don’t see thoughts and negative people and help am definitely hungry to make the most of it so much as a team versus individual me make the big changes that didn’t feel that result and do better next year. route. I get to keep fighting another day like sacrifices. It wasn’t until I stepped doing what I love every time. I just try out to compete in Rio that I really felt like and stay grateful and work hard. I really I could compete among the best in the hope we kick off the team qualification world. That feeling has really driven me strongly for the 2019/2020 season over the past two years. Despite funding though, so that we keep in the running cuts and limited support, that little flame and get the chance to compete as a team that started as a 12 year old is getting in Tokyo 2020. stronger. The Sword: So let’s go back to the The Sword: You were based in the beginning. Where did you start fencing UK for quite some time but recently and what drew you in? decided to move to the USA. Why did I started when I was 9 years old. I’d just you choose that route and how is it finished a school football match and going? was walking home when I saw this after Marcus with his silver medal (Augusto school fencing club going on. It looked a Bizzi) lot of fun and I went home and told my mum I saw all these people fighting with The Sword: Looking forwards, now that th swords. Naturally a little concerned, she you are ranked 17 in the World what came to see what I was talking about are your goals for the coming season? and on seeing the sport my mum put To continue to enjoy the new challenges both my brother and me in the class. that keep coming. It’s so great to have My brother picked it up immediately. done this sport for 20 years now and I’m Me? Not so much. I had to work hard still making new experiences. I want to but I did, pushed on with the good old break into the top 16 and start pushing sibling rivalry and the rest, as they say, is Brooklyn Bridge Backdrop (From towards that World number 1 spot. I want history! Instagram) 12 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 I’d just lost my support team having enjoying the company of your friends Quick Fire Questions been part of British Fencing’s most and family. I also miss doing stupid successful period in its history. I was stuff – laughing, making memories 1. Favourite movie: The Hangover pretty devastated and wasn’t really with my friends. I would say that and 2. Favourite music: Motown/Soul sure I was going to be able to carry on. relationships are the biggest sacrifice 3. Favourite hobby: Exploring I’d identified Dan Kellner as a coach I as I’m on the road so much and a little thought could take my technical skills overly blinkered to my sport. Otherwise to the next level but wasn’t sure if New it doesn’t really feel like a sacrifice doing York was a financial bridge too far. I had something that brings me a lot of joy. four months from identifying Dan to raise The Sword: To the future. Clearly Tokyo enough money to start the move to New 2020 is a goal. What about beyond that? York and since then it has been budgeting like a mad man and trying to make or The future will be clearer after Tokyo find the resources to make it work. That 2020. I feel like I’ve spent a lot of time side has been really difficult. I felt like I’d making sure doors are open whatever I been made redundant and was not just choose to do but it’s hard to look beyond trying to find a new job but start a new Tokyo 2020 right now. So much can company and become a world leader in change following a gold medal! Marcus and Family (from Facebook) the industry within 3 years. What’s more, The Sword: How do you see your role in I don’t think there’s a harder place to be the inspiration of future GBR fencers? 4. Favourite fencing competition: World than New York City on a budget! Luckily I’d like to think my results show that Championships 2019 though, there are some great people British fencers can compete with the best 5. Favourite holiday destination: Rio de within the sport and I have received in the World. It’s nice for them to see a Janeiro amazing support that has helped me. British World medallist representing GB. 6. What can you not leave home That has definitely pushed me through I didn’t have that growing up. Ultimately I without? My wallet the difficult times and turned this into hope people see my passion and love for 7. Your dream job (other than a positive chapter of my fencing career. the sport and it gets them motivated to international fencer): The Next David So far the move has been really great for do whatever it is they love. Attenborough my fencing. I’m learning new technical 8. Best part of fencing: Always learning skills all the time and BBFC is a great The Sword: Obviously you can’t achieve something new environment to keep me grounded and what you have on your own. Who has 9. Your heroes: Mum and Dad help remember why I loved this sport in helped you along the journey? the first place. My results have been thanks to a team around me. I might be the one with the sword in my hand but so many people within the fencing community have helped me a long the way. The Leon Paul team have supported me since I was a kid. British Fencing and the British Fencing Charity have helped me continue my sporting career since Rio 2016. Team PDFA has supported me and allowed me to act as a mentor and coach to the next generation, while The Aspiration fund has helped me go to training camps recently. Marcus with Coach Kellner (l) and Dad (Augusto Bizzi) Of course my parents, friends and family Marcus notes exploring as a pastime pick me up on the down days and help me The Sword: Describe a typical training celebrate the good ones. Dan Kellner and 10. Favourite post competition meal: week for you. BBFC have helped develop my skills and Anything! I’m so hungry post Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 2 hour passion for the sport. S&C coach Mike competition! gym session, 2 hours lesson, footwork, Edwards has turned me into an athlete, 11. Top three tips for young athletes video analysis, 3 hours fencing drills and while Johnny Davis has really supported who want to improve their fencing sparring the men’s foil team throughout our performance. qualification. (a) Remember what it is that got Tuesday & Saturday: 2 hours lesson, you into this sport – the thing you There are so many people – even the kind footwork, video analysis, 3 hours fencing loved as a kid. Hold onto that. It words of support and encouragement drills and sparring will drive you further than you from the fencing community go along Thursday & Sunday are off days realise. way on this journey. (b) Be the hardest worker. I’ve seen I work as a personal trainer in between so many natural talents fall by on training days and on Thursdays and the wayside because they didn’t Sundays. Also I always try and keep train hard enough. I’d rather lose some time to see my friends in the having giving it everything than city or friends visiting so I’m in a good wishing I could have done more. headspace. (c) Build that quiet confidence in The Sword: What sacrifices have you yourself. made to achieve at the highest level? Thanks to Marcus for sharing his time I miss a lot of friend’s birthdays and Marcus with Enzo Lefort and Ben Paul and thoughts with us. We hope you milestone events. I really miss the lazy on an advertising shoot (courtesy of enjoyed reading his answers as much as days where you’re doing nothing – just Leon Paul) we did! OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 13 FEATURE FEATURE

GILLIAN DONALDSON, MBE

The 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours much smaller than it is now but the included a long-awaited MBE for Gillian accommodation was amazing and I Donaldson (neé Sheen). We jumped at the felt very much at home. Prince Phillip chance to have a chat with her about her was there as the VIP for the opening life, her fencing journey and that magical ceremony which was in the main podium moment. It was a thoroughly stadium. enjoyable conversation. We had separate accommodation for The Sword: Congratulations for being women with a sentry so we could not awarded the MBE. You are Great mingle with the men! The food hall was Britain’s only fencing Olympic gold amazing. Before competing we stuck medallist. Tell us about that trip to 1956 to the British food but once finished we Olympic Games in Melbourne and what sampled food from around the world. it felt like to hear the national anthem on the podium. At the competition venue I really felt the Selection for that Games was the worst crowd were behind me and so were the part of the journey. I hadn’t had much British team. I fenced so well and I was in success internationally at that point. my prime. As always with fencing it was all about the timing. It was just my day. Sheen, Gillian (1956). Courtesy of I was pretty green in that respect and Malcolm Fare from memory, there were only seven In the finals poule of seven I tied for first places available on the British team. The place with Romanian, Olga Orban with It was never easy. We had to pay for selection committee were in two minds five victories and one defeat. So there everything ourselves so we were limited about sending me so it was touch-and- was a barrage for the gold medal. It was by our own resources. go. In fact, it was a nightmare…..until I pretty nerve-wracking for everyone. I heard about my selection. My last Games were in Rome in 1960 went two up before Olga scored one. We where I made the semi-finals, just There had never been an individual traded the next two hits before I went on missing out on the finals. I was very women’s foil tournament at the Olympics to score the winning hit (4-2) to take the depressed but had no excuses. before. However, just before we left for title. the Games, London hosted Women’s Looking back, winning in Melbourne World Team Championships. I fenced well It was the most amazing moment to see meant I lost a bit of my winning which was a great way to prepare. the Union flag being raised. It was super. mentality. Perhaps I should have quit Incredibly emotional. I hadn’t dreamed after the gold but I loved the sport so A month later I was on my way to of winning. It was amazing. To make the much. Melbourne. The trip from London took most of being on the other side of the four days with stops in New York, San world I’d planned a trip of Australia and Francisco, Hawaii, Fiji and Sydney New Zealand. An amazing time! before the short hop to Melbourne. It really takes you back to how it was The Sword: You attended two other then. Everything at the Games was Games either side of your medal winning performance in Australia. What were the differences between them and Melbourne?

My first Games was in Helsinki which was the first Olympics after the war. Again my preparation could not have been better. We had a GBR versus Denmark match in Denmark which we won. I then went on to take gold at the Danish Championships, receiving a lovely bowl which takes pride of place in my house to this day. We went straight from there to Helsinki but I did not do well at all. The atmosphere was not great. I was 1948, Gillian Sheen talks to a Hungarian young and inexperienced and nearly gave fencer at an international match. up. However, fencing was too much a part Courtesy of Malcolm Fare of my life and I kept going. Gillian with her granddaughters 14 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 The Sword: Many GB fencers struggle to balance the sport with life in general. You qualified as a dentist whilst competing internationally. What advice would you give to aspiring international fencers who have to balance their training with studies/work? Firstly I loved the sport so the will was there. I learned to fence at school and I found the sport a good break from my academic studies. When I graduated I found a job near my club, London Fencing Club (Hannover Square – the old head quarters of the AFA). Every day, after work I’d go straight to the club. I didn’t do any other kind of training. My coach was of the philosophy that if you want to be good at fencing, just fence. I was involved in all aspects, helping out refereeing at events that I wasn’t competing in. You have to love it! Between the 1956 and 1960 Olympic, the lease ran out on that venue and that’s when the AFA moved to the De Beaumont Centre which was much more difficult for 1956, Sheen (left) attacks Renee Garilhe of France in the Olympic final. Courtesy of me to get to. Malcolm Fare Leon Betrand was my coach and he didn’t adjust well to the move either. Lessons fell by the wayside and it was time to I then headed to Buffalo to meet up with Now I’m just waiting for the call and the quit. my brother who was visiting the US for invitation to the investiture. I’m definitely The Sword: How hard was it to move a year away. I was fortunate enough to coming to London for it. be introduced to a dental outfit (George from the UK to the USA and did The Sword: Lastly, we’ve got to ask! Eastman clinics) that gave me six months you stay involved in fencing in any What do you think is the greatest thing work. That also meant I had time to capacity? about our sport? explore some of the country. Whilst When the World Championships were in there, I met my husband, Bob. I needed to It’s athletic but it’s very much a mental Philidelphia (1958), a client of my father’s come home and Bob came with me and game. That’s the fun of it but that’s why kindly decided to support my journey. joined the Eastman Clinic in London. Bob you need experience. You can’t mature Both myself and Bill Hoskyns went was unhappy in the UK and desperately in fencing until you’ve been on the circuit over and were put up in the university wanted to go back to the USA to be and seen the different styles. accommodation. I made the finals and closer to his family. He went back as I th The Sword: Thank you for your time. finished 7 . It was the first time I’d ever headed to the Rome Olympics but I was been approached to throw a fight. I did in a quandary. I didn’t want to move to Gillian is truly exceptional. She gave us not! At that event I was approached by an the States but I wanted to marry Bob. I more of her time than we could have expat and asked to fence at a Canadian wasn’t in the right place emotionally for asked for and was captivating from start Exhibition event. Edoardo Mangiarotti, those Games! to finish. Congratulations to her, once the most decorated fencer of all time, again. We hope you have a fabulous day was my opponent! He was very gracious Eventually we married in 1963 in St John’s at you investiture. and he let me have a few hits. Wood and then I took the plunge and moved to the USA. It wasn’t easy to leave England but that was the way it was. I did stay involved in fencing and ended up doing a lot of refereeing in the local area. Eventually I turned my hand to coaching but I had to give it up as my family grew. The Sword: How did you hear about achieving the Queen’s award and how did you and your family react? I was shocked. I was at home when the phone rang. My daughter answered and it was the British Embassy in Washington. I thought it was something to do with my passport. It was not! When asked if I’d 1956, Sheen Olympic champion with accept, of course I said “yes”. I couldn’t dried flower from her bouquet – from celebrate because I wasn’t allowed to Charles de Beaumont’s scrapbook. tell anybody but we had a nice private 1956, Sheen Olympic champion with Courtesy of Malcolm Fare celebration. I am thrilled. gold medal. Courtesy of Malcolm Fare OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 15 16 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT

CLUBS & REGIONS

The Ingredients That Make a Successful Portfolio of Projects and Programmes – Virginia Bailey (British Fencing’s Projects & Programme Manager)

Over the last four years BF has worked a sports offer for its young people but forward to developing this further in with a number of partners to deliver have taken the creative ‘sell’ of fencing to 2019/20.” our Sport England funded portfolio of engage its target audience in the sport. Projects and Programmes. I manage the In the last year we have moved away Co-creation with partners and target portfolio and believe that there are a from working with the more traditional audience: Closely connected to the number of key ingredients that have led youth club that has a strong multi-sport partnership approach is our belief in to its continued growth and development, offer and forged new relationships co-creation with our target audiences. enabling us to push boundaries around with a number of youth clubs who The Art of Fencing is a great example of creative thinking and delivery, giving have a reputation around arts based co-creation – an idea based on insight young people the best possible exposure programmes and developed the Art of (more on that below), it was imperative to fencing. This article will explore those Fencing, which saw fencing combined that we worked with young people to ingredients in more detail. with samba bands, film production and design, shape and deliver the project. dance, just to name a few. A weekend of merging fencing with Strong, honest and effective creative arts allowed us to understand partnerships: The foundations of any if what WE thought might be appealing successful relationship are built on actually would be! Young people where trust, honesty, respect and sticking given the opportunity to shape and with each other through the highs and design their own programme that would the lows – foundations which the team see them blend their creative passions at BF work towards creating with all with fencing, leading to more young its partners. We believe that if we are people being physically active AND going to successfully deliver against our being introduced to a creative sport. objectives, raise the profile of our sport This approach has helped us understand and engage and retain young people who what makes an appealing and attractive would not normally have the opportunity programme and equally what else to try fencing, we must work hand-in- needs to be done to ensure a top quality hand with our partners, celebrate the Art of Fencing Co-Creation programme is being delivered. It’s as successes and address the challenges much about understanding the great with an open and positive mind. Many During 2018/19 we have seen an increase things that work as well as the things sports will often take an ‘off the shelf in not only the number of young people that have been challenging, to ensure we approach’ to partnership working, with engaged in our London Youth partnership learn from mistakes. a ‘one product fits all’ offer but through but crucially we have seen an increase the partnerships we’ve forged, we have in the retention rate compared to the Insight led and continuous monitoring, been able to create bespoke offers for year before; 70% retention in 2018/19 evaluation and learning: BF’s Crowd the target groups we are working with. compared to 64% in 2017/18 (based on DNA ‘UK Tribes’ research carried out We have been prepared to take risks attendance at a minimum of 60% of in 2014 has proved a valuable tool in when shaping an offer, trying new ways sessions) understanding the make-up of fencers. of delivery that won’t always work but UK Tribes is a comprehensive study of 16- John Jones, LY Sports Development lessons are learnt and have helped us 24 year olds across the UK. It’s designed Officer says, “The partnership with continue to grow and explore ways to to delve into emerging trends, identify British Fencing continues to go from engage young people. commonalities and give brands a voice strength to strength. Not only have in this challenging but exciting youth For example, our partnership with we been able to grow the number of audience. At the time of the research London Youth has seen continued young people and community youth there were 5 Planning Segments and success in the core offer based around organisations taking part, we’ve also within this 25 Individual Tribes. upskilling youth workers and delivery been able to test and learn a new linked to the Bronze Award scheme. It approach, combining fencing with young We see trends from the research would be easy for us to settle with this people’s artistic passions. Our shared mirrored in the type of young people but the mutual trust and respect in our commitment to pushing boundaries that get involved with our Projects and partnership has encouraged us to try new and challenging the status quo very Programmes. For example our research approaches to engage a youth market much stands out as a key factor in our tells us that there is a significantly higher that historically would not think about strong working relationship and we look proportion of young people from the

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 17 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

‘Alternative’ segment who fence (38%), were aiming to engage a high proportion workshops into the training that have versus the general population (14%). We of females, we engaged more males looked at addressing topics such as: also know that ‘Alternatives’ are more (40% v 54%). However we retained more • motivations and barriers that women likely to start fencing at a university females than males (52% v 44%) in the communities we are working in society than any other segment and A St Michael & All Angels Steel Orchestra may face that within the ‘Alternative’ segment, Youth Worker said, “Through the Art • opportunities to share best practice the highest proportion of fencers are of Fencing our young people learned best, both during the course and ‘Real Gamers’. Why is this important? discipline, focus and the importance of beyond The satisfaction rate for those that have precision. We are a steel pan organisation • marketing and communications signed up to the University Fencing so the opportunity to combine this with Officer programme reached 92% in We are also working hard to ensure fencing was certainly a new experience the last year and we have also seen that throughout the two days training, and one we welcomed. It was great to a retention rate of 62% across all the we are constantly getting the women see our young people have fun as they universities (previously 52% in 2017/18), to ask ‘what does this mean to me and tend to take their music making seriously as well as a growth in the number of my community?’ and ‘what impact will and sometimes forget the joy of just universities joining the programmes (38 fencing have on the women I work with?’. participating.” students and 14 new institutions). The final piece to the jigsaw has been to introduce a number of qualitative methods to ensure we can gather the story behind the numbers and understand in more detail why projects have worked and equally, where they struggle and how we can improve them. Using simple techniques such as project diaries for participants to write in, coaches keeping journals about their experiences and informal conversations, all play a huge part in bringing projects BUCS LUSL Competiton Youth Group taking part in fencing to life. A course participant said, “You ladies Another key resource is the BF An adaptable Coaching Framework: were marvellous and honestly it was not Monitoring and Evaluation Tool that Following the introduction and success of only a pleasure to have met and worked allows us to analyse through various the new BF Coaching Framework in 2016, with you all but an honour. You have demographics, the young people that we have been able to take the Core Coach amazing enthusiasm for the project and are engaging with our Projects and Course and Leadership In Fencing Course it’s infectious. I went away full of energy Programmes. We discussed earlier in to adapt them to meet the needs of the and wanting to really dedicate myself to this article how the Art of Fencing came target audience and partners that we are this.” about due to insight gathered from the working with. This may vary from new previous years data set from London and additional content, (e.g. focusing on As we move through year 3 of our current Youth. The data told us that 51% of those engaging women and girls) to adapting Sport England funding cycle, we want to engaged were female and 74% of those the time frame the course is delivered continue to delve deeper into our existing were retained. Coupled with our Crowd in (e.g. Leadership in Fencing Course partnerships, build on what we have, DNA insight that told us that females who has been tested over a day, two half learn from any mistakes and ultimately fence are ‘Creatives’, the Art of Fencing days and 3x 2hr sessions). For example, get more young people excited and idea was born. The results at the end of when delivering Core Coach for Muslim engaged in this brilliant and fascinating the year showed us that although we Girls Fence we have added a number of sport!

Get noticed!! Advertise in The Sword. Email the editor: [email protected]

18 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

Maintaining and Improving Club Standards – an update on Sport England’s Clubmark Scheme, By Hannah Gavin (British Fencing Development Officer (Clubs & Regions))

Sport England announced in July that What will be available for clubs • Club Development their Clubmark programme would cease moving forward? • Club Structures to continue after November this year. The • Partnerships decision was made after an independent Sport England are developing a • Governance review of the scheme looked into the ‘Health Check’ tool via the Clubmatters • Facilities efficiency and effectiveness of its website that is currently due to launch in December this year. The tool will suitability as a tool to help clubs work Club People towards higher standards. It was found complement the resources and products that whilst the resources made available currently available and will be used as As we know people make a club what as part of the scheme were of definite a vehicle to continue to promote club it is. Clubmatters aims to look at those use, the actual accreditation programme development. individuals that make up the community and advises on what else you could be was seen as potentially too generic and The Clubmatters website will still doing to not only reach out further but as a result many NGBs were adopting continue to host a catalogue of also maintain the current cohort: their own product. knowledge that clubs can access today to help them work towards solving any • Members and Participants What does this mean for British current challenges they face. For those • Volunteers Fencing? of you not familiar with the portal, the • Coaches Clubs that currently hold a valid Sport website focuses on four key club-specific England Clubmark accreditation will areas; Finances, Management, People Club Marketing remain to do so until it expires. Sport and Marketing. It also offers a variety of learning tools to help clubs maximise This section offers ideas and suggestions England have assured us that the award on how to effectively market your club will still be acknowledged for the length their engagement including workshops, online support and club improvement and to shout about what it has to offer. It of its term. Also a toolkit will be made brings together three different areas: available via the Clubmatters website plans. to these clubs to continually help them • Strategy maintain and improve the standards that Club Finances • Research the Clubmark process has inspired. This section has in depth coverage of • Options Any club that is currently in the process five themes that aim to support a club to Moving into a new season provides the of working towards their Clubmark manage their finances effectively: perfect opportunity to look at and assess accreditation has until mid-November to • Managing Money an area of your club. The Clubmark complete the course. Final applications • Budgeting scheme was designed not to criticise were made in August this year. These • Tax and Sport Clubs clubs on what they don’t do or catch clubs will continue to utilise the • Generating Income them out but was aimed at helping Clubmatters dashboard and portal as • Funding Guidance clubs improve what they currently do. normal before the scheme ends. It is safe to say that as a community of clubs we are committed to inspiring and The Clubmark scheme and Clubmatters Club Management developing fencers whether that’s for website has been a welcomed asset to Sustainability is often a difficult problem competition, recreation or simply fun. British Fencing as they have provided for clubs. The management section of the A positive change doesn’t have to be a way to give expert and structured website aims to help success through something huge. It can simple. Reviewing, information to clubs to help them looking at the following topics: or writing, your club’s constitution improve what they do. Not only does (see here) can be an excellent way of the wealth of knowledge available help refreshing your group ready for the year provide answers to everyday queries ahead. and challenges but it has stimulated the aspiration of a high standard of As ever I am keen to hear both the practice. This is something that British success stories and current challenges Fencing wishes to emulate and continue that are being faced by clubs and regions. in the future. Therefore a review of an If you have something you would like to accreditation award will take place and a discuss or have any comments on this decision will be made regarding what this article or the Clubmatters website please will look like going forward into 2020. don’t hesitate to get in contact via e-mail.

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 19 EDUCATION

Refereeing Exam Success in Scotland by Nickie Bailey (Volunteer Workforce Coordinator)

The process for training, qualifying sporadic in recent years. While there a second round of poules and DEs. and developing officials – referees in have been notable individuals such as Feedback from participants supported particular – is undergoing exciting new Peter Huggins, Mike Thornton, and Mike this style of learning as they felt changes. In this, the first of two articles Ellis delivering courses and exams with supported rather than analysed and presenting recent developments, great success it has been noted that encouraged rather than assessed.” the success of the Scottish Fencing more examiners are needed and a clearer It was noted by both examiners that refereeing exams at Levels 1 & 2 is learner-focussed framework is required this new approach centred on building used as a case study. The exams were to encourage the development of the the candidates’ confidence and abilities, conducted on 1-2 June 2019 at the next generation of volunteer referees fostered a positive atmosphere in the Scotland LPJS by Jennifer Sancroft, Chair at grassroots events and facilitate their referees’ room where candidates were of the newly formed Scottish Fencing training and development to grow the discussing their performance and ways Refereeing Advisory Group and Alex next generation of high-level national to improve with each other as well as Savin. In total 17 refereeing licences and international referees. with the examiners. This led to a number were awarded to 15 candidates with of candidates improving over the course some candidates qualifying in multiple With this in mind, the exams at the of the assessment with the feedback weapons over the weekend. Scotland LPJS opted for a new approach and self-evaluation sessions making the to the examination process to facilitate difference between passing and failing To provide context to this case study a more supportive environment for the the exam in some cases. When asked it is important to clearly identify the candidates. The standard procedure to evaluate the benefits of this new meaning of each of the levels within the for Level 1 and Level 2 practical exams approach Sancroft replied, “This process domestic qualification system and how has historically been a somewhat aloof is more involved and more engaging and they line up with international licences process comprising silent observations it built a strong sense of camaraderie awarded by the EFC and FIE. Levels 1 & 2 by the examiners followed by feedback amongst the new referees. It also are in the purview of the Home Nations at the end of the day, with the candidates provided an opportunity to discuss why and are designed to develop a broad being informed of whether they have candidates were interested in refereeing volunteer base to support local events passed or failed after receiving feedback. and what they hoped to do once qualified. and simultaneously help educate the In contrast, the new approach puts a This allowed us, as examiners, to begin whole fencing community by keeping much stronger focus on encouraging developing the framework to support this them abreast of changes to the rules and candidates to self-evaluate their new cohort of Scottish referees.” their interpretation. Meanwhile, Levels performance, with the examiners gently 3 & 4 have been taken into the remit of guiding the candidates’ evaluation Overall, this novel and exciting approach British Fencing and are indicators that through a series of individual and to training and examining referees referees are ready to officiate abroad personalised feedback sessions. has yielded positive results at its first at EFC Under-17 events with a view to outing. It follows a very similar method obtaining an FIE C licence (in the case of When asked to describe the examination to that being successfully implemented Level 3,) or successfully pass the FIE B process, lead examiner Jennifer Sancroft in coach education (the similarities exam and begin refereeing World Cups said, “Participants were supported to and development of this method (in the case of Level 4). This clarity in the referee in poules and then given the in the context of refereeing will be standard of the qualifications has led to opportunity to discuss how they felt expanded upon in a future article,) and an increasingly professionalised delivery things were going with an experienced has received positive feedback from of Level 3 examinations at British Fencing referee who used open questions to all those who have engaged with the Championships. guide the candidate through a reflective process. Hopefully, this will be developed process where they identified any further and contribute to the current It has been recognised by the Home areas for improvement or gaps in their growth of and development of a new, Nations that while there are several knowledge. An open discussion then fully supported, professional cadre of highly qualified international-class took place to help the learner improve referees able to support fencing in the UK referees the training of referees at the where needed with a second round of at all levels, from local youth events to grassroots level has been somewhat observations completed throughout international championships.

We are always looking for stories from youth internationals. Submit your stories to the editor: [email protected]

20 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 we can feel it. Being University of Kent Find the Winning Recipe – by selected as the Ian Stewart (British Fencing Programme Manager) Universities focus sport has given us a After multiple university awards, were also national trophy semi-finalists. lot of resources but including being named “Club of the Year” All the teams this year smashed their also increased the for two years in a row, a few teams leagues and have each had their ups pressure to exceed topping the table and one promoted and downs. We owe a lot of our team’s those expectations to the BUCS Premiership with another progress to Peter and Jane – two coaches set out by the winning the BUCS Conference Cup, within the club who have helped less University. We are the University of Kent Fencing Club is experienced fencers like me develop and getting three fantastic definitely on the up. British Fencing’s helped more seasoned ones learn more new specialist Ian Stewart sits down with the new complex skills. coaches in – one for each weapon and nd President, Cian McGaughey, to find out we are introducing a Women’s 2 team what it is that they are putting in the who will help bridge the gap between water in Kent and why the fencers seem novice and intermediate women fencers, to be the ones drinking it! preparing them for the premiership. We also aim to continue to build a relationship with our community as well as Mallard Fencing. We are in talks with a local school which is really exciting as well! A big aim for the year is to get our Men’s 1st and Women’s 2nd promoted and to have our Men’s 2nd finish strongly in their new league, as well as our Women’s 1st having a strong finish in their debut in the premiership. We also have some University of Kent Sparring Session fantastic projects in progress that I can’t wait to release later in the year. It’s nice IS: It sounds like the club has been that fencing, which is usually a sport working hard over the last few years. that can be in the side-lines at other How does the University feel about your universities, is now a priority for Kent! Cian success? IS: What advice or suggestions do you Cian: Our successful BUCS year and have for other university clubs who want Ian: It’s been quite a journey for being shortlisted for five awards at the University of Kent Fencing Club, what are to emulate your success? team Kent ball and winning two of them some of the biggest achievements? : My advice for other university really demonstrates how successful Cian clubs is to take advantage of their local Cian: Where to even start… With the our year was! Ryan Penny, the Sports community! Get involved with your local women’s 1st team being promoted to the Coordinator at Kent Union said, “Fencing clubs. They may have equipment you Premiership? Or possibly our Club being at the University of Kent is the jewel in can borrow, a venue you can use for a selected to be the Universities first ever our crown.” Sport in general is really tournament or even a coach for sabre focus sport? UKC Fencing have had a competitive at Kent with many teams to help develop fencers in your own fantastic year and I’m incredibly proud competing at a high level but now with club. Your local clubs and community and honoured to be its next president our Women’s 1st team in the Premier are your biggest asset and developing a and develop the club further. We began Division fencing is up there and being relationship with them is only going to the year with some tests, challenges recognised. The Union and the University allow your club to grow! If you want to and high expectations for being the Club joined forces to offer a Performance see more about our club check out our of the Year 2017 and 2018 but I feel and Sport Programme. Loads of teams Instagram @UKCFencing and our website know we surpassed expectations. The applied and we were one of the teams www.ukcfencing.co.uk! 2018/2019 season was the first time selected. Ryan Penny added, “We had we had introduced a seconds team and many teams apply. However fencing this was a big step for the development stood out head and of fencers in the club. We weren’t sure shoulders above the how successful it would be – if less rest.” So next year we experienced fencers would want to will benefit from extra compete and it did start off rocky. Our funding, marketing first two matches saw two agonisingly and support from the close defeats and it was incredibly Union and University. frustrating for the team. However, all it We are very excited did was bring the team closer together for next year and have and from thereafter they didn’t lose a high hopes! game and finished top of the table. That’s : So, what’s next just the men’s 2nd team! The men’s 1st IS for the club? How will team finished Conference Cup winners! you keep the high A huge achievement and a hard-fought standards that you victory. On top of that the women’s 1st have achieved so far? were promoted to the premiership! A first for the university in a long time and Cian: This year, the currently the only one. The women’s 1st eyes are on us and Fencing Club winning Club of the Year at Team Kent Ball

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 21 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

COACHING

Profile – Rob Cawdron

I joined British Fencing full-time in competition. I decided to take the chance of those mistakes. At British Fencing, mid-July working within the Athlete and move down to Stratford-upon-Avon. I quite possibly, made even more! Development Programme. I’ve been I was there for 6 years, starting as the Working as part of a governing body, working part-time within Athlete development coach for the club, working in a publicly funded programme was Development since November 2017, with the younger fencers but soon unlike any other job I’d had up to now helping to shape the direction of the branched out, working at Oxford and and I felt I learned so much about what’s camps and then working with the Worcester Universities as well as my old important for people and the different weapon leads to help them build their university; Leicester. At Shakespeare’s challenges people faced in their fencing, teams and get their visions for Epee, we went through a period of transition coaching and clubs. I learned about what Foil and Sabre going. Now that I’m full- and experimentation, looking hard at governing bodies can do to help develop time I’m looking forward to getting out our coaching practice and asking “why ambitious athletes and coaches and how into the rest of the community to work are we doing it this way?”, “could this passionate so many people are about with clubs and regions as they develop be done differently or better?”, “is this talent development. athletes and coaches. good enough?”. After this period, we When the opportunity to move into had reinvigorated parts of the club, in I’ve been involved in fencing in one British Fencing full-time came up and particular our beginners course, making form or another for over 15 years, as work in talent development everyday it use of research into child development competitor, referee, athlete and now was an easy decision to go for it. Now and coaching pedagogy to develop a new administrator. I started fencing foil that I’m getting settled and making a look way of introducing fencing to 11 year at a small club in a leisure centre in start I’m looking forward to working with old children. Halifax, West Yorkshire but I didn’t all of you who want to give our athletes start competing until I went away the best chance of being successful In 2016, Daniel Redshaw moved on to university. I found the club at the and making the Athlete Development and I stepped into the Head of Fencing University of Leicester to be lively and Programme the best it can be. I’m looking role at the club. It was much more competitive. Pretty soon I was away forward to seeing you at a competition organisational and administrative most Wednesdays and a lot of weekends or ADP camp soon. Come up and have a than I’d been used to but I found it was at competitions. As I came to the end of chat! something that I was enjoying. The my university studies I felt I wanted to try coaching team at the club had changed something different and made the jump now and I found myself along with across to sabre, which I carried on when David Kirby, leading a team of young I returned up north, joining up with Stuart coaches, all whom were under 20 years Marshall. of age. Despite the apparent lack of Around this time, I started refereeing on experience in the club, we continued the domestic cadet circuit and taking my to grow and continued to innovate our first tentative steps into coaching, getting coaching methods. Our young coaches my hands on 12 sets of sabre kit and proved themselves more than capable setting up a small network of primary of coaching to international cadet schools in the local area. After 18 months standard. Then in October 2017 a part- of doing this, I was now refereeing at time opportunity came to work within sabre events on the cadet international the relatively new Athlete Development circuit, as well as doing domestic Programme. I was fortunate enough to championship events. I also had a basic get the role and began working in the club structure that was working, with Athlete Development Team to shape half a dozen clubs feeding into a central the programme and develop the camps. club that was based in Halifax town I learned more in the next 18 months centre. At that point, an unexpected offer than in any other period of my life to came out of the blue. Daniel Redshaw and date. Being the lead in a club was very David Kirby got in touch to tell me about different to simply coaching sessions. I a full-time position at Shakespeare’s made a good number of mistakes while Swords, developing the Under 11 – Under trying to learn how to manage and lead 15 fencers, in preparation for cadet a club, and learned lessons from some Rob Cawdron

22 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 Preparation with the End in Mind by Steve Kemp (GBR Programmes and Coaching Development Manager)

In the role I have at British Fencing I April – September: do spend a significant time in the car travelling. In my first year at BF I did At the end of April all players, Blues 30,000 miles! To me this oddly is a benefit to the U21s have their plans and start of the role as I have lots of time to think a four month training schedule. From and reflect on coaching, the job I do and September there are only 10 weeks my journey so far. As I sat in the traffic on to the Varsity match taking place and a warm July evening my mind focussed with a packed competition schedule of on the upcoming season for our younger 1-2 games a week there is no time for fencers – Cadet and Juniors, Europeans preparation work. This is very much a in Croatia, Worlds in the USA, both less personal responsibility. Players have than eight months away. For some of the missed out on selection, the Blue. This fencers they will be finding their way in because they didn’t do the prep work and thought they could make it back up. the international circuits. For others they Steve Kemp will be looking at qualification for the The great positive of this period is the major championship. And actually it’s not time available to rest/recovery and do a game plan are held back and therefore just about qualification. It’s about that thorough preparation training regime. untested in full match conditions. one day of fencing that in the end will September – December: 2. The data capture of key performance determine the success of the season. About 35 players are invited to attend six areas that the coaches believe will It got me thinking about my sport, days of testing and training before term lead to success. Examples of key rugby. Where does this situation happen starts in mid-September. It is a mix of performance areas are: and being from Oxford it was obvious. players from undergraduate, with limited - tackle completion rate Luckily for me, Lynn Evans, my mentor, senior rugby experience to players with - qualit y set piece ball (i.e. scrum and dear friend, an RFU hall of famer, who international caps and in the past some lineout) has coached world class players and senior internationals with Rugby World Targets are set with a lower % at the worked with world class coaches, spent a Cup experience. start with a key performance target number of years as the Director of Rugby for the match. at Oxford University. 26 are selected to go on Tour. It’s a time 3. The final area is the personal skill of training, bonding and setting the tone The answer! The Oxford Varsity Match sessions. The key core skills are and expectations for the season. This is is a whole season judged on one game. identified and players are expected to set by the captain and players – not by Not only is the game played at the world do their “homework”. This is 40 – 60 the management. It is a fair reflection famous stadium Twickenham with a minutes of additional work on either that the management role model is the crowd around 22, 000 (a figure on par a positional requirement or identified culture under-pinned by the history and with Huddersfield Town last season) it is weaknesses. These sessions were values of the rugby club. played in December, a time of year where often done at lunchtime and for some the weather may have a significant On the tour all the players have an before or after the main session, in impact on the game. interview with three people from the smaller bitesize chunks. coaching group. Strength and weakness For the players who come from all The final element is the selection are discussed with a six-week action around the world, including world cup philosophy of the elected captain. At plan put in place. This allows an winners, it is a year of preparation for Oxford this philosophy was to always openness between players and coaches. that special moment to get that winning select the strongest team. This with the This does take time but provides clarity blue. The consequence of not winning is key performance areas and the individual and purpose for both parties. It takes gut-wrenching and for some there is no performance plans helped the players place again with a month to go before the second chance. With all the variables and understand where they were in the squad big match. pressures, anyone can have a bad day! set up, enabling a strong team culture and identity. This consistency allowed So for a fencer a year of work, of Back in Oxford academic demands start. This means every session has to be the players to relax and display their preparation and to have a bad day is also strengths rather that being concerned GUT-WRENCHING!! as effective and efficient as possible. Training is in the evenings starting about being selected. An example of an Oxford University Year at 18.00 with a pre-training briefing So what can be taken away from this January – April: outlining what is being covered and the unique experience? How does it relate to transition points in practice. Coaches my thoughts about Junior fencing? Election of the captain by 22 players – the have to be time-disciplined or the session coaching staff have no say in who will becomes inefficient. The players know April to July (equivalent to January – lead the team. There are only six weeks they have to perform quality practice April for Oxford Rugby): left of the term for 15 a-side matches. for the whole session and the “repeat to For Juniors, a number move to U23/ The pressure of missed work from the perfect syndrome” does not happen. Seniors. Some have another year or first term means significant players more at Junior level with new cadets Three key parts of the whole plan are: struggle for matches let alone training. coming into the age group. So some So there is limited time to observe the 1. You know the opposition. They are are experienced and some are new to potential players that will remain for doing a similar plan. Whilst the final the level. These fencers have two roles; the following season. The third term is team is only announced 10 days before team mates to work with and improve examinations time and off season, so the match, there is time to analyse and competition as someone they are training reduces to skills sessions once a the opposition. They will be doing the competing with for that place in the week. same! So certain aspects of Oxford’s team/squad.

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 23 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

Fencers are preparing for exams. So the a fencer’s developments, abilities and the coaches working towards the demands of study have a higher priority. where they are in the rankings. This Varsity match. The identification Getting the balance correct to keep is similar to 35 players going on tour. of key performance indicators that the development as a fencer moving This means improvement plans can show how the fencer is prepared and forwards is important. be developed and key performance performing well coming into the main indicators identified. competition can give competitive July to September (equivalent to April – advantage. September for Oxford Rugby): The start of the Junior World Cup season This is the time to re-charge and develop is similar to reducing the player base Like rugby at Oxford University, as a fencer. The off-season should be to 26 at Oxford. This is the group that Junior fencers are selected for their used to improve physical and mental have the best chance of making the “Varisty” match – whether this be major foundations and the pre-season should final selection. However the 9 rugby Championship selection or any other turn to development of technical and players keep playing and developing as target event. tactical improvements. At the 2018 BF players pick up injuries and for some Junior Championships it was clear to see of the 9 there are another one or two So in conclusion, what is your Varsity a fencer that had put the work in during opportunities depending on their degree match this season and beyond? this period. course. For the fencers not making junior For some it is the Junior European World Cups, international experience Championships. For others it is the British September to March (equivalent to can be gained by attending other Youth Championships. What are the key September – December for Oxford international competitions. performance indicators that lead to the Rugby): likelihood of an optimal performance The domestic season starts. The BRCs Individual programmes and homework and hence achieving the result you were and C&J Nationals give an indication of – these are strong focus areas for working for?

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24 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 MoneySabre – by Rob Cawdron (British Fencing Programme Manager – ADP)

Moneyball, the 2003 book (and 2011 film) by award winning author Michael Lewis, is the story of how the Oakland Athletics under General Manager Billy Beane defied expectations, performing consistently at a level that belied their (relatively) modest means and competing, as equals, with the biggest names in baseball. It tells how Beane, alongside assistant General Manager Paul Podesta, pioneered the use of sabermetrics and data analytics to build winning teams year on year. At its heart, it’s a story of not accepting conventional wisdom as truth and the search for what others have missed in order to gain the edge. How does this apply to fencing and what might it look like? As a fencing nation, Britain’s situation could be looked at comparatively to the Oakland Athletics’. The traditional powerhouses of Italy, Russia and France, our equivalent of the New York Yankees, the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers, have bigger budgets, fully funded training sessions and larger populations. So where can we find our edge? How can British fencers, clubs, coaches and national teams upset the odds to be competitive? One of Lewis’ themes in his book is how the democratisation of data and information has flattened the traditional hierarchies, giving smaller teams and organisations the opportunity to compete in a way that previously wasn’t possible. So if we start to look at the data, what can it tell us? If we look at sabre, what can we start to learn? Below is the total hits scored by the winners of every individual fight at the 2017 Senior World Championships in Leipzig.

Women’s Sabre Men’s Sabre Total hits 429 Total hits 462 1st Attack 186 2nd Attack 98 1st Attack 191 2nd Attack 126 1st Riposte 115 2nd Riposte 12 1st Riposte 84 2nd Riposte 35 1st Counter 10 2nd Counter 8 1st Counter 2 2nd Counter 23 Line 1

Each point is coded with a description of the action: • Attack – action with priority that either begins before the opponent, or is a step-lunge or more after making the opponent miss/ parrying • Riposte – action with priority after making miss/parrying, but must land within a lunge or flunge, anything longer becomes an attack • Counter – action without priority, where the opponent fails to land their attack; and a description of the perceived initial action of the fencer off the engarde line. What does this mean? For example a fencer who had the intention to attack when the referee said “allez” and scored, would have that touch recorded as a “1st attack”. A fencer who intended to step off the line, parry and score with a riposte would go down as “1st riposte”. However, if a fencer had attempted to attack, missed and then been forced to defend and score with a parry-riposte would have that touch recorded as a “2nd riposte” – their first action failed (the attack) but their second action succeeded (the riposte). Alternatively, a fencer might look to try and defend as their first action, realise that their opponent had also tried to defend and then jump on the opportunity to start an attack when both fencers pause. This would be a “2nd attack”. What does this information tell us so far? Not a huge amount! The most common scoring action off the engarde line in both genders is an attack. Then in the men’s game, the second most common is a “2nd attack” and the women’s is a “1st riposte”. What it does suggest however, is that the most common scoring decision is defensive (1st riposte added to 2nd attack is the biggest total – 210 for men, 213 for women). Perhaps we need some more context. So what do these hits look like when plotted on a piste?

Piste zones

Zone C – Scorer’s Zone D – Centre Zone E – Opponent’s Zone A – Backline to Zone B – Warning Zone F – Warning engarde line to line to opponent’s engarde line to warning line line to engarde line line to backline centre line engarde line warning line

Direction of Winner →

Women’s Sabre

A – 8 B – 26 C – 94 D – 199 E – 70 F – 55

1st Riposte – 5 1st Riposte – 16 1st Riposte – 69 1st Attack – 151 2nd Attack – 35 1st Attack – 28 1st Counter – 2 2nd Attack – 5 2nd Attack – 11 2nd Attack – 25 1st Attack – 31 2nd Attack – 22 2nd Riposte – 1 1st Counter – 4 1st Attack – 7 1st Riposte – 20 1st Riposte – 3 1st Riposte – 2 2nd Riposte – 1 2nd Riposte – 5 2nd Riposte – 2 2nd Riposte – 1 1st Counter – 2 1st Counter – 2 2nd Counter- 1 2nd Riposte – 1

Direction of Winner →

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 25 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

Men’s Sabre

A – 13 B – 26 C – 136 D – 214 E – 53 F – 20

2nd riposte – 8 2nd attack – 9 1st Riposte – 83 1st Attack – 153 2nd Attack – 41 2nd Attack – 19 2nd Counter – 3 2nd Counter – 8 1st Attack – 29 2nd Attack – 52 1st Attack – 7 1st Attack – 1 1st Riposte – 1 2nd Riposte – 7 2nd Riposte – 12 2nd Riposte – 7 2nd Counter – 4 (Line – 1) 1st Counter – 1 2nd Counter – 6 2nd Counter – 2 2nd Riposte – 1 1st Attack – 1 2nd Attack – 5 1st Counter – 1

Direction of Winner →

When plotted on a piste, does this give anymore insight? Some differences between men and women certainly seem to come out, with the vast majority of 1st attacks for men finishing before the opponent’s engarde line (zone D). Whereas in the women’s there are much more attacks from the engarde line travelling down the piste, into zones E and F. There’s a similar story with 1st ripostes, with almost all of the men’s actions taking place on or around the defender’s engarde line, in zone C. Whereas in the women’s game there’s a spread much further back beyond the engarde line, with some going all the way to the backline. The men’s game is very much played between the two engarde lines, with the vast majority (75%) of hits happening here. The women’s game is similar, with 68% of hits happening between the engarde lines but there are many more actions that extend into the opponent’s half, with over twice as many points scored in their opponent’s warning area as in the men’s game. How might all of this begin to inform training sabre fencers? What do you read from this data? Does this mean we now have the secrets for British success in sabre fencing? In short, no. This data is, at best, a snapshot. It tells us part of a story from one competition, from one set of fencers. It doesn’t tell us the failure rate of these actions, (Yes, 1st attack is the most frequent action scored with but how often is that action attempted with no point scored?) and it doesn’t record the balance of the points in the 1st half versus the 2nd (Do fencers attack more or less often in the 1st half or the 2nd?). This data also only analyses senior fencers in one fight at one competition. How different might this look at junior level? What this hopefully does, is start a conversation – what data do we need to be collecting to be able to meaningfully analyse performance and inform coaching and training of fencers? What does epee look like, or foil? What data have you been collecting already and how has it informed your training or your coaching?

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26 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

Coach Behaviours Frameworks

One of the areas of development within aligns to our learnt behaviours and of the participant or unfortunately the the Athlete Development Programme therefore it is not recognised as participants stopping participation itself. (ADP) is the Coach Behaviours inappropriate. It can also take place when Research in the USA shows a 70% Framework. The rationale for this is, the power of the coach’s behaviour has dropout in sport at 13 years old – other coaches along with parents, siblings and such a strong influence on the other key countries are also highlighting similar peers play important and multifunctional influencers around the fencer, that it is impacts. roles in the life of a young fencer. “normalised”. Research by Jowett 2003 suggested that Coaches need to reflect on their Some familiar sounding statements, within the sport domain, the coach- behaviours and be aware of behaviour which are in context inappropriate: athlete interpersonal relationship can be that could be viewed as negative, viewed as the most significant one. • “No pain. No gain” – The coach who inappropriate, unacceptable or poor and that poor practice can become abuse. Coaches can be viewed firstly as believes improved performance comes instructors of the sport and secondly with a tough coaching style which Coaches can: as an adult role model for the young includes unreasonable demands, • understand what are appropriate participant. The way in which coach’s controlling behaviours, as well boundaries that enable safe and coach their values and behaviours all undermining put downs when mistakes healthy relationships (Coach influence childrens’ enjoyment and are made. Behaviours Frameworks) continued participation in sports, as • “Young people shouldn’t referee as • create situations/processes to afford well as some learnt behaviours, that they just don’t have the experience” the opportunity to allow appropriate will echo beyond the life of the fencers – The coach who verbally abuses behaviours to flourish and therefore participation in the sport. the young developing referee who is losing confidence and self-esteem reduce inappropriate behaviours The coach-athlete relationship can with each outburst piste-side. To make • understand the NGB/club expectations develop strong bonds that over a consistent decisions, with a certain, about behaviour (codes of conduct, period of time encompass physical, limited amount of information, in a guidelines and policies) seeking psychological and emotional short time frame. clarification if unsure development. • use positive and age-appropriate • “Didn’t mean any harm. I was only language when talking to and in the Coaches are in positions of trust and having a bit of fun.” – The ex-fencer/ able to assert authority and power over fencer who recently has taken on the presence of fencers fencers, and in some cases their wider coach role along with the responsibility • ensure appropriate development networks. The proper use of this power and power that comes with the role. activities to the level of the fencer and is vitally important in all coach-fencer They do not recognise the boundaries the stage of the skill development relationships and coaches should be now in place and has behaved required for the activity aware of the influence that they can have inappropriately in the coaching role, • be more aware of their actual over young fencers and that at times they over familiarity when demonstrating a behaviour by reflecting may find themselves acting as substitute skill and language of choice are some – on how they have treated all of their parents. examples. fencers – have they given equal time to all involved and differentiated to • “But we won’t win and be successful While the vast majority of coaches meet the needs of the fencers? if we play those children” - Children are ethical, competent and safe, – on their behaviours when stress who are not the best players yet, are unfortunately some abuse their power, levels are high (e.g. at competitions) made to feel unwanted and the coach authority and the trust held in them. It is – on if they have used poor practice/ not always obvious and at times the line does not give them equal coaching and fair playing time. abuse as a form of discipline between appropriate and inappropriate – on if they have used negatively behaviour is often a matter of intent, Children should be able to participate in impactful statements for motivation perception and context. a sporting environment that is fun, safe, • be more aware of their behaviour by Within fencing/sport what is an fair and inclusive. observations inappropriate behaviour? These may Of course there is also the option to reject Observations can be done by a trusted involve behaviours that ‘technically’ don’t the inappropriate behaviours; this by the colleague or by filming yourself whilst break any rules or laws but are unwanted community/social network highlighting coaching. Recently one ADP coach around the club environment and are the inappropriateness of the behaviour with the fencers’ permission wore a not consistent with respectful behaviour and encouraging alternative behaviours. microphone and recorded how they towards children. When the alternative behaviours spoke, what they said and how they said Sometimes as a community we accept are not adopted and inappropriate it. It provided some valuable insight on and endorse inappropriate behaviour. behaviours are maintained there is often how they interacted with their fencers This takes place when the behaviour a change in the sporting environment and those around the coaching sessions. OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 27 o on how they have treated all of their fencers - have they given equal time to all involved and differentiated to meet the needs of the fencers? o on their behaviours when stress levels are high (e.g. at competitions) o on if they have used poor practice/abuse as a form of discipline o on if they have used negatively impactful statements for motivation • be more aware of their behaviour by observations DEVELOPMENT Observations can be done by a trusted colleague or by filming yourself whilst coaching. Recently one ADP coach with the fencers’ permission wore a DEVELOPMENTmicrophone and recorded how they spoke, (continued) what they said and how they said it. It provided some valuable insight on how they interacted with their fencers and those around the coaching sessions.

Example of Coach Behaviours

Attributes Knowledge Behaviours Someone who is They are…. They need to… We are looking for them to… ExampleApproachable of Coach Behaviours Positive Understand how to use Contribute to conversations effective listening and effectively, connecting people to Attributes Knowledge Behaviours Clear questioning techniques develop teamship Someone who is They are…. They need to… We are looking for them to… Clear Conscientious Understand how to Take time to provide timely Approachable Positive Understandarticulate how to useinformation Contribute in information to conversations that is effectively, broken down connecting effective listening and people to develop teamship Clear Patient different ways into easy non-intimidating questioning techniques understanding chunks Clear Individual ConscientiousEmpatheticUnderstand Understand how to articulate how to buildTake timeConnect to provide with timely people information as that is broken centred informationrapport in different ways down intoindividuals easy non-intimidating and is able to understanding bring chunks Patient Caring lifestyle interests into the Individual centred Empathetic Understand how to build Connect withsessions people broader as individuals than and is able to bring rapport lifestyle interests into the sessions broader than Caring motivations alone Structured Supportive Understand how effectivemotivations alone Structured Supportive Understandgoal how setting effective can support goal settingbehaviour can support change EncouragingEncouraging behaviour change Participant statement Participant statement

“We have a plan to “I can always take get there” part at my level”

“Is good at “Takes time to explaining what I understand who I have to do” am”

We are always looking for stories from youth internationals. Submit your stories to the editor: [email protected]

28 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT (continued)

Be You. Be Different, The British Fencing Podcast Update

The British Fencing podcast has aired coach Jon Salfield brought to light the all- As Marcus is based in New York, we since the beginning of 2019 and is now round, holistic approach the programme recorded over the phone and we had available on all podcast platforms is taking. to negotiate the time difference. We including Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, talked about lots of sports, travel and Funded by Sport England, the Programme Spotify and Google. Here’s a round-up of the inspiration of other people like Roger gives young fencers the skills to create the episodes so far. If you would like to Federer and Dame Kelly Holmes.” a long and healthy career in sport, feature on the podcast or have ideas for bringing forward role model qualities After the episode aired, Marcus went future episodes, please email media@ and teamwork, as well as the physicality on to win his silver medal at the World britishfencing.com. required to compete for GB. Championships. Listen to this episode to reveal who has inspired Marcus the Episode 1 – Time To Talk Episode 3 – Money Money most, what he has learned from his In our first episode, hosts Sean and Money journey so far and discover his hopes for Sophie talked about mental health. The the future. 7 February 2019 was ‘Time to Talk Day’. In episode 3, we talked about money! We interviewed Jo Kowalski of social How can a sports club raise funds? How does British Fencing use your Episdoe 5 – Parents in Sports – movement Time to Change, Paul Davis A Guide to Enjoying the Journey of the Paul Davis Fencing Academy and membership and funding to grow our Team GB sabreur Jonathan ‘JJ’ Webb for a sport? Most importantly, what would Whether you’re a parent, a coach, athlete fascinating insight into mental health in co-host Sean do if he won the lottery? or supporter, the next generation has our sport. All your questions were answered in a role to play in the future of sport. In interviews with CEO Georgina Usher, this episode, Sophie spoke to Gordon The episode gave JJ a chance to talk Salle Holyrood club fundraiser Jo Cook MacLelland, founder of Working With about his own mental health experiences and Scottish Fencing athlete Mhairi Parents in Sport, a company that and how he sought treatment at the McLaughlin. supports organisations, parents and Priory. He opened up about how creating coaches in working together to provide a plan helped him to move forward in a Sophie says, “This was a different children with the best possible sporting positive way. “I think for me, the biggest episode as Sean managed to interview experiences. thing was thinking ‘Am I going to be Georgina whilst they were both abroad at comfortable talking about it?’, because an event. We managed to bring in some Sophie said, “We talked about creating that’s the biggest issue around mental practical tips on how to raise funds for a positive environment for our young health – actually discussing it. Being a club and Mhairi gave us some great people, giving them the support needed comfortable, whether it’s with your insight into her experience as a young to succeed as people with life skills friends or more publicly like this.” fencer. The episode covers funding from through sport. As a parent myself I was lots of different angles. Money can be a interested to find out how best to support Episode 2 – Developing the stressful subject. So it was great to really young people as they discover new skills answer some of the mysteries around Athletes of the Future and challenges. Gordon has a wealth of where the money in fencing comes from knowledge and highlighted some of the In this episode, Sophie and Sean and where it is spent.” things coaches can do to create good looked at British Fencing’s Athlete communication with parents from the Development Programme (ADP), aimed Episode 4 – Fencing Inspires: start.” at helping fencers aged 15-23 achieve The Journey of Marcus their potential. Insightful interviews We discussed what a good sports with Steve Kemp, British Fencing’s Mepstead environment looks and sounds Programmes Manager, Rob Cawdron, ADP In episode 4, Sophie chatted to New York like, discovered tips on coping with Project Officer, athletes Alice Campbell based GBR Olympic foil fencer Marcus disappointment and heard about how and Danielle Lawson plus ADP sabre lead Mepstead. “It was a great interview. elite athletes inspire the next generation.

Do you have something to offer to the podcast? Contact: [email protected] to have your say…

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 29 ROUND UP ROUND UP

UNITED KINGDOM ARMED FORCES FENCING CENTENARY WEEKEND 30 AUGUST – 1 SEPTEMBER 2019

It is not very often that any fencing gathering then retired to the bar to carry organisation can celebrate such a on with fencing stories and to look at a momentous occasion as a centenary. collection of service fencing memorabilia Indeed, the only ones that I can recall brought together by Commander Barton. were the Epée Club in 2000 and British The following morning, a triangular Fencing in 2002. However, these august match between the UK Armed Forces A institutions have been overshadowed Team, the Armed Forces Veterans and a by the Armed Forces whose fencing British Fencing President’s Select Team credentials predate both of the above. (mainly composing of BVF and Epee Club It was in 1919, after the formation of the members!) was held in the Headquarters Royal Air Force, that the Inter Services of the HAC. There was a great sense of Fencing Championships were first RAF Centenary camaradie and friendly banter during the held at the Royal Tournament. In order proceedings – good to see James Williams to celebrate this date, Commander on form in the sabre team and keeping Mark “Dicky” Barton Royal Navy, the Earls Court in front of Royalty. All the Adrian Speakman on his toes as referee! current Chair of the UK Armed Forces guests had arrived by this stage and Each team comprised of two men and Fencing (it used to be called Combined witnessed some highly skilled and fast a lady in FES and the final outcome Services Fencing Association before a moving bouts ably refereed by Mr Mike saw UKAF A Team winning gold, the Rebranding Company was brought into Thornton, Mr Adrian Speakman and Ms President’s Select Team taking the silver the equation to “modernise” the Armed Hannah Bryars. At 8pm the fencing ended and the UKAF Veterans a close third. and everyone sat down in the magnificent Forces image!) decided that 2019 would A final group photo for the archives was Honourable Artillery Company Long be a year to remember. Not only would then held on the steps of Armoury House Room to enjoy a silver service meal of the they hold the Inter Services Fencing and Hilary Philbin, President of British highest standard. Military conventions Championships at a prestigious location Fencing, gave a speech of thanks to the were adhered to with consideration being and invite past and present members of UK Armed Forces Fencing organisers for given to the fact that there were three the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force their hospitality and the organisation Services present. Hence the Royal Navy Fencing Associations and Unions with that had seen their centenary being gave toasts of the day, Port was slid to other civilian fencing “glitterati” but they celebrated in a truly memorable fashion. the left as in Army messes and the loyal would also host a formal black tie dinner Roll on the next hundred years! after the fencing had ended. Therefore toast was taken standing up to satisfy at the end of August, 120 fencers and both the Army and the Royal Air Force! invited guests came together at Armoury Commander Barton then proceeded House, home of the Honourable Artillery to describe some of the rich history of Company in the middle of the City of fencing in the Services and how it was, London to celebrate this centenary event. in all reality, the start of fencing here This was then to be followed the next in Britain. A précis of this history was day with a Triangular match between printed on the Dinner Menu and is printed the UK Armed Forces, the UK Armed below. He reeled off a long list of our Forces Veterans and a British Fencing most prestigious medal winning athletes President’s Team. such as Lord Desborough, Thomas Wand-Tetley, John Moore, Bill Hoskyns Saturday 30 August saw the well and others who had started their fencing attended Inter Service Fencing Lawrence Burr OBE career in the Services and had gone on to Championships starting early with contribute so much to the sport that we fencers flying in from every corner of the recognise today. globe. By 6pm the results were through FENCING IN THE and it was then time for the fight off He then handed over to the UK Armed for the prestigious Master Swordsman Forces Fencing President, Commodore SERVICES and Swordswoman trophies. These Matt Clark, who ended his speech with Sword fighting was a natural part of wonderful shields have been presented a toast to the continuing future success the life of both the Army and Navy for every year since 1919 and used to be of Inter Services Fencing and “absent centuries but fencing within the RN was awarded at the Royal Tournament in friends”. This was warmly applauded. The certainly treated as a distinct activity 30 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 by 1733, when a separate master of fencing was appointed at the new Naval Academy. Fencing was at this time seen as part of an officer’s training to be a Gentleman. Throughout the Victorian period, the Services were largely responsible for keeping fencing alive as a sport, with sword displays as well as the development of sword feats, which were performed as part of the entertainment at the military and naval tournaments. One such tournament, the Grand Military Tournament and Assault at Arms, first held at the Royal Agricultural Hall in Islington in 1880, developed into the Royal Tournament and it was out of this event that the Inter-Services Championships was born. A fencing competition was first held at this tournament in 1888, although no results are known. In 1896, separate foil and sabre competitions took place for Army officers and other ranks. In 1904, the competition expanded to include the Royal Navy and epée (although epée was limited to officers). In 1912, the competition was first referred to as the Inter-Services Championship. Following the creation of the RAF from the RNAS and RFC on 1 April 1918, the new service joined the competition in 1919, when the tournament restarted after the break for the war. In 1930, officers and other ranks were combined into one competition. In 1939, the Triangular was added, consisting of four weapons: foil, epée, sabre and bayonet. The RAF won that first competition but it was not held again until in 1947, after the Second World War. The first decade of the Triangular was dominated by the RN due to the prowess of the Royal Marines at bayonet fencing, until the weapon was removed from the competition in 1957. In 1947, the Inter-Services competition expanded to include the women’s Services. The Royal Tournament closed in 1999 but the Inter-Services Championships have continued using various venues each year.

Earliest Winners THE CENTENARY DINNER First Officer Foil Winner 1896 Capt J McCall Maxwell Royal Artillery First Officer Sabre Winner 1896 Capt W Edgeworth-Johnstone Royal Irish Regt First Other Ranks Foil and Sabre Winner 1896 St Sgt B Foerester (AGS) First RN Winner 1904 Foil S/Lt FEB Fielmann RN First Epée Winner 1904 Major WH Grenfell MP 1st Bucks RVC First RAF Winners 1921 Sgt Maj H Grainger RAF Sabre and Foil and F/Lt F G Sherriff RAF Epée First Ladies Foil Champion 1947 S/O Z Taylor WAAF

LEEDS FENCING CLUB’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

This year Leeds Fencing Club was delighted to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a foil and sabre fun fencing event followed by a buffet meal at Northern Ballet. The event was open to present and past members. Many hours were spent on the telephone and internet trying to locate past members. Eight of the fencing participants were past members and some of them had not fenced for 10 years (since our 40th anniversary event) and they joined the club on a temporary basis. The fencing began with one seeding round followed by poules to decide the winners and to ensure that everyone got a full afternoon of fencing. The foilists fenced for the Dortmund Trophy and the sabreurs for a new 50th anniversary trophy. It was pleasing that the original chairman, Philip Silver, visited to watch the fencing along with several other past members. The club was originally called Nelson Fencers, named after Harry Nelson who had been seriously injured in a fencing accident at the time the club was being formed. The club changed its name to Leeds Fencing Club in the late 1980s. Unfortunately I was unable to locate Harry, although he and Sheila, his wife and long time fencer did attend our 40th event. After a swift shower we reconvened in the event suite of Northern Ballet for a buffet meal. Typically there were more people for the social event than the fencing! The choice of venue was the result of collaboration between Leeds Fencing Club and Northern Ballet in 2018 when two of our coaches taught the male dancers to fence for their Three Musketeers ballet. We were welcomed by our Chairman, Nick Stokes, who summarised the history of the club and encouraged everyone to enjoy a thoroughly good evening. David Nixon OBE, Artistic Director, Northern Ballet presented the Dortmund Trophy to Alastair Holdsworth and the 50th Trophy to Ben Laker. Since then two of our previous members have rejoined the club! Moya McNamara OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 31 ROUND UP ROUND UP (continued)

BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL REPORT – CLAUDIA FOGL

Over the Easter weekend 2019, the Women’s foil: 1 – Chloe Dickson, 2 – Birmingham International Fencing Teagan Williams-Stewart, 3= – Katie Tournament had a successful second Smith and Seville Babaeva. outing at its new home at the University Finally on Saturday, 56 men’s sabreurs of Birmingham Sports and Fitness Centre. (NIF 56) fenced. Soji Aiyenuro won his A new sports hall layout gained approval 2nd BIFT men’s sabre title. There were from spectators and fencers alike. also fine results for a large number Over 400 fencers competed over two of Shakespeare’s Swords fencers days where the smooth event running including 2nd for Zachary Hamilton and was due to work of the DT team (Simon Joe Pocknell in joint 3rd with Brynmor Axon, Richard Burn and Phil Palmer) Saunders of Leon Paul. Women’s Epee Podium and referee co-ordinator (Alex Savin). The committee would also like to thank Women’s epee: 1 – Francesca Summers, the armourers, (Steve Jackson, Simon 2 – Maddy Lee, 3= – Lydia Stanier and Corcoran and Roger Simmonds,) the Sophie Saudo. first aiders, (Richard Burn and Roger Simmonds again,) and Joan Whitehouse, In keeping with the theme, the women’s the Welfare Officer. sabre final also finished 15-12 with 98 fencers (NIF 222) competed in the Tamara Carnac of Leon Paul sabre men’s foil competition which was won emerging victorious. 37 fencers competed by 14-year-old Jamie Cook, meaning (NIF 39). that with his dad Keith, the Cooks have completed a rare father-son victory Men’s Sabre Podium double at the BIFT. Herefordshire’s Daniel Robinson finished a creditable 13th. Men’s sabre: 1 – Soji Aiyenuro, 2 – Zachary Hamilton, 3= – Brynmor Saunders and Joe Pocknell. Sunday opened with men’s epee and its 102 competitors (NIF 214). Paul Sanchez- Lethem beat Matthew Cooper 15-12 in a closely fought final.

Women’s Sabre Podium Men’s Foil Podium Men’s foil: 1 – Jamie Cook, 2 – Ethan Women’s sabre: 1 – Tamara Carnac, 2 – Ridsdale, 3= – Kamal Minott and Laura Gladdish, 3= – Rachel Lasance and Alexander Lloyd Bethany Brierley. In the women’s foil event(51 fencers, NIF The organisers would like to thank 125), the final was a replay of the final the volunteers who helped set up and of the British National Championships put away the competition including but on this occasion Chloe Dickson beat a certain armourer’s daughter who Teagan Williams-Stewart 15-12. Men’s Epee Podium helped pack up after a long day’s Men’s epee: 1 – Paul Sanchez-Lethem, 2 – fencing and the referees, without whom Matthew Cooper 3= – Alex Papadopoulos the competition would not have been and Elliott Grover. possible.

15-12 was also the winning score in the They would also to thank Leon Paul for women’s epee final where Francesca their sponsorship, kit stand, support Summers beat Maddy Lee after both and donation of the prizes (which all the won their semi-finals 11-10. 58 women’s winners “ooh-ed” over). epeeists (NIF 95) competed, with the West Midland’s own Alexandra Powell A date for your diaries next year – the Women’s Foil Podium finishing 7th. BIFT 2020 will be on 11-12 April. 32 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 REVIEW REVIEW

FROM LAST TO FIRST – A PARENT’S GUIDE TO FENCING SUCCESS By Jon Salfield and Daniela Norris

“It was Mum and Dad’s fault – they were to the development of its juniors. Then just there!” we have Daniela Norris – an intriguing mix of authoress (I reviewed her first book “Dad – where is my foil/epee/sabre and “Recognitions” in this magazine last year), why isn’t it working – I told you I needed it diplomat, political writer but above all a ready for this competition” parent of three boys, all of whom fence! Mum – why isn’t my coach here watching She has had experience, not only of the me – I’ll lose this fight if he/she isn’t UK system but also of French and Swiss here……” clubs where her children first picked up a Yes – every parent has heard those sword. She has gone through all the trials phrases repeated time and time again and tribulations of being “the support as their child starts at the fencing crew” of a motivated fencer, with all the parent is well formulated in the book’s salle and begins to progress into their challenges that that brings, and who chapters which range across the whole first competitions. The parent’s lot is therefore brings a fresh perspective into spectrum of equipment, training, skills not always a happy one as they try to this book. development, communication, competing comprehend a sport that many find This book is long overdue. Parents and of course some key points on the totally baffling unless they have been and young fencers need to have a psychology and the mindset which might a fencer in the past. Since the 2012 real insight from the beginning into help with achieving long term success. Olympics, British Fencing has pursued this wonderful sport of ours and At the same time, both Jon and Daniela its policy of bringing fencing to as many yet, despite the plethora of manuals interspace these with their own personal youngsters as possible as part of the UK and technical tomes written by well observations. The book reads easily and Sport’s “legacy” to encourage new sports meaning professional coaches, there is full of useful insights whilst answering amongst schools and clubs. The “soft” has always been a need for a more those myriad of questions that a parent, fencing initiative with foam and plastic sympathetic guide and explanation who is new to the sport, might have. I weapons that can be taught by teachers of how youngsters and their parents certainly wish that my own parents had or sports trainers alike has brought a should approach fencing. I think that been able to read this before launching new wave of parents with no knowledge all organisers of junior competitions me on the circuit! of fencing into fencing clubs throughout have experienced problems with the the country and it is for these that this conduct of over enthusiastic yet well Our very own Richard Cohen has added new book is a real boon. meaning parents – some to the extent the foreword to the book with the endorsement that “From Last to First The authors of “Last to First” are a of being “black carded”. If they had been is the real deal” – a sentiment that I formidable pair. Firstly, Jon Salfield – the able to read this book beforehand and heartily endorse. Every club should have charismatic professional international maybe shared it with their sons and copies of this publication and give it to sabre coach with a solid fencing pedigree daughters, we might well see a definite new parents and fencers as they enter who has been running Truro Fencing Club improvement in both behaviour on the the salle doors. The fact that 10% of for over 20 years and is the lead coach piste and see the resilience and self the authors’ royalties also goes to the for the GB Sabre Squad and the British sufficiency required of our young fencers admirable TFC Gold Foundation is an Fencing Development Programme. He has which is strongly advocated here. extra bonus! always had a passion for the sport and The sound and practical advice from both sees the future of fencing innately bound the coach’s viewpoint and that of the Lawrence Burr

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OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 33 REVIEW REVIEW

INTO THE FRAME By Jonathan David Collins

It was at Wellington Swords Fencing encouraged by social media, his parents Club back in 2010 that I first encountered and his Chichester club members, has Wheelchair Fencing. The Hungarian produced a well-considered guide to the club coach, Cefi Felletar, had been sport. The book is privately published keen that we opened up our purpose and yet gives the reader a bird’s eye view built Salle to wheelchair competitors, of what wheelchair fencing is all about particularly as the young (then!) Piers – its equipment (the sport wheelchair Gilliver, Caz Walton and Vivian Mills in particular) and clothing (all differ in were encouraging us to become more some regard from that worn by able- inclusive in our sport. We advertised bodied fencers), the rules, regulations widely in the local area to see whether and etiquette and more importantly – any other disabled sportsmen and how to “play”. Jonathan Collins gives an women might like to take up fencing and entertaining talk through all of these and even had Dame Mary Glen Haig to attend uses conversations and observations an Open Day to celebrate wheelchair in each chapter entitled “Behind the fencing. This led to Wellington then Mask” from a whole range of UK and hosting the National Wheelchair Fencing International wheelchair fencers to add Championships with the great and the a flavour of why wheelchair fencing is good coming to help out and participate such a great sport. These, in particular, in the event. give a riveting insight into the real challenges – both physical and mental With the lead up to the 2012 London that face these remarkable men and Paralympic Games and the final success in the UK. I have great admiration for the women. Their governing body in the of our wheelchair athletes, fencing at author and his great team of supporters. UK is British Disability Fencing (a great the Excel Centre was THE place to be. Our wheelchair fencers are winning website at britishdisabilityfencing.co.uk) Wheelchair fencing demonstrated that major World and Paralympic medals with the International Wheelchair and it was a fast and furious duel with all and have been for some years; so, Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) who the noise and excitement generated by perhaps this book will go some way to now support membership from over 65 athletes from every participating country show the journey that they have taken countries worldwide. in the world. It is now a constant at the and the work that has taken them to Paralymic Games and is one of the six the Paralympic podium. This is a sport This is a fascinating publication written para sports that have never been out of that deserves to be lauded more widely with great heart and feeling. Although its the Games programme. than it is at present – Jonathan has done format is somewhat simplistic in places wheelchair fencing a great favour in this With all this in mind, I am delighted and its font size is rather irritating, this regard. that we now have a handbook written is a much-needed book to encourage by one of our wheelchair athletes who, the growth of wheelchair fencing here Lawrence Burr

We are always looking for stories Do you have something to from youth internationals. offer to the podcast? Submit your stories to Contact: the editor: [email protected] [email protected] to have your say…

34 THE SWORD OCTOBER 2019 RESULTS RESULTS

The up-to-date 2018–2019 Season Latest Results are now listed online and can be accessed using the following link:*

Photo: Augusto Bizzi

Please forward all your suggestions for additional online fencing results to: [email protected]

OCTOBER 2019 THE SWORD 35 NEW

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