Setting theRecords Straight Legends: Fencing Camp Choosing theRight BEN SOLOMON Born toFence BillReithprofi les

spring 2006

American FENCING

FEATURES 27 BEN SOLOMON by William Reith

30 TRAINING CAMPS by Sada Jacobson

14 DEPARTMENTS

3 President’s Letter 6 Readers' Letters 7 News Veteran's Fencing, World Cup 9 Postcards from the Strip Fencing as Mastery 12 Sports Med Q&A Turning Injury Into Advantage 13 Sport Science The Fencer-Coach Relationship 14 Fencing History Setting the Records Straight 17 Rules/Referees Over-Aggressive Passivity Calls 27 18 Parent's Corner Online Resources 20 Tech Talk Repair Tips for Bibs 21 Club Tips Demographics 24 Club Profile Salle Mauro Fencing Academy 33 Athlete Q+A Tim Morehouse 35 Tournament Results 2005 World University Games 37 Classifieds Tournaments and Coaching Positions 40 In the Spotlight Lindsey Knauer

30

On the cover: Cover story fencer Ben Solomon at a recent World Cup in Kuwait. Photo by Serge Timacheff, FencingPhotos.com.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 1 The FENCING ASSOCIATION Contributors President'sCORNER Member Services Directory

The UNITED STATES FENCING ASSOCIATION is the national governing body for the sport of fencing in the United States. The USFA is affili- ated with the Federation Internationale d’Escrime, the international In this Issue federation for fencing. The mission of the United States Fencing Association is to develop fencers to achieve international success and to administer and promote the sport in the United States. JEFF BUKANTZ writes the "Rules and Referees" column. He The United States Fencing Association is a member of the FIE Rules Commission. Email Jeff at Phone: (719) 866-4511 [email protected]. Fax: (719) 632-5737 E-mail: [email protected] STEVE DIEHL is a freelance writer based in Park City, Utah, Web: http://www.usfencing.org and the father of youth fencer Caleb Diehl. President Nancy Anderson MEGHAN GARDNER is the director and CEO of Guard Up, Inc. Vice President Sam Cheris in Burlington, Massachusetts. She now consults start-up Vice President Ro Sobalvarro Vice President Edward Wright and small schools in improving their growth, staff training, Secretary Linda Merritt and quality of service. Treasurer Derek Cotton MAURO HAMZA is the head coach of Salle Mauro in Houston, Texas. He's also the proud father of baby Malek - born American Fencing February 16, 2006. Dedicated to the Memory of: Jose R. DeCapriles 1912-1969 Dr. JOHN HEIL is Chair of Sports Medicine & Science for US Miguel A. DeCapriles 1906-1981 Fencing. He is with HCA Lewis-Gale Physicians and can be contacted at [email protected]. EDITOR Cindy Bent Findlay; DR. STEVEN HESKY is a psychologist and sports psychologist [email protected] in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hesky was PRODUCTION/DESIGN Meg Galipault/Jon Stickley introduced to the sport by his son and took saber lessons himself. Associate Editors Bob Block Veterans SADA JACOBSON is the U.S.’s only Senior World Cup Cham- Jeff Bukantz Rules/Referees pion, holding the title for three years running, from 2002- Joe Byrnes Technology 2005. Jacobson won the bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Peter Harmer Sports Medicine Games in , . She recently graduated from John Heil Sports Psychology . Andy Shaw Official Historian MONIKA KAO is a freelance writer in Pittsburgh who played Please send all correspondence and articles for submission to Editor, fencing mom to son Alex for many years. American Fencing, One Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs , CO 80909- 5774. American Fencing is published quarterly in January, April, July and October. Please contact the editor regarding submission WILLIAM REITH is coach of Alcazar Fencing in Cleveland, deadlines. Please contact Chris Cuddy at (719) 578-4511 regarding Ohio, and Ben Solomon's first coach. advertising. American Fencing (ISSN 0002-8436) is published quarterly by the ANDY SHAW is the USFA's official historian. He is also coach United States Fencing Association, Inc., One Olympic Plaza, Colo- of the Fairfield Avenue School of Fencing in Shreveport, rado Springs, CO 80909-5774. Periodicals postage paid at Colorado LA, and maintains a page of fencing history at fencingon- Springs, CO 80909-5774, and additional offices. Subscriptions to fairfield.com American Fencing are included with membership in the association. Individuals can subscribe for $16 in the United States and $28 else- where. Postmaster: Send address changes to USFA, One Olympic SERGE TIMACHEFF is a fencer, the founder of FencingPhotos. Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO 80909-5774. com, and the official photographer for the International ©2006 United States Fencing Association. All rights reserved. Repro- Fencing Federation (FIE). He is also the author of two books duction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. on photography, Total Digital Photography and Digital Sports Photography: Taking Winning Shots Every Time.

2 Spring 2006 · American Fencing President'sCORNER Nancy Anderson President, United States Fencing Association

he United States Fencing Asso- AT HOME and we have already had stellar ciation is alive and well and, as • Membership in the USFA is at an performances. Ta matter of fact, is the healthiest all-time high. • Three of the weapons are in the top it has ever been. It is my pleasure to • In the past two years, the referee World Cup team standings. report that membership continues to base has grown by almost 50 per- • 4 US fencers are in the top 8 of the expand at a phenomenal rate; tourna- cent; coach membership in the FIE World Junior standings. ments are creating challenging prob- USFA has tripled. • There is significant greater depth in lems with unexpected increases in • The number of fencing-related all the weapons as demonstrated entry fields at all levels from the Divi- businesses has doubled in just the by the number of athletes partici- sions through the NACs; the youth past four years as evidenced by pating in World Cup and interna- programs and regional youth tourna- the space occupied by vendors at tional competitions. ments are gaining in popularity every the national championships. month; and US fencers continue to • Coaches can obtain more ben- The 2008 Olympics in are upend their foreign counterparts win- efits from the USFA, e.g., insur- 2.5 years away. Though it sounds ning medals at World Cup and other ance coverage. National coaches like a long time, it will pass quickly. In international competitions. are receiving compensation for the order to place US fencing in an opti- The winds of change can be expect- time spent with the national weap- mum position in Bejing, Bob Largman, ed to continue as growth stimulates on programs. team manager of the last two Olympic change—growth brings on unexpected • On-line registration has been a Fencing teams, and Michael Mas- challenges, but challenges that allow request (a demand?) of the mem- sik, Executive Director, traveled with an organization to regroup and analyze bership for some 10 years; final the USOC on a survey trip to Beijing. its evolving mission. Many changes stages are being tested for imple- During that trip they made excellent have occurred over the last 20 years, in mentation in the 2006-2007 sea- inroads with the fencing manager and particular in the last eight years. son. were able to establish a solid com- The USFA has grown by leaps and • Task groups have been formed munication link. In preparing for the bounds such that 8 full time staff focus to evaluate where US fencing is Games, this type of liaison can only on the corporate business of the sport today, what are its needs, and how help US fencers, not just in accom- of fencing. The staff implements the to best accomodate the needs of modations but in casting the positive policies of the Board and works with all the facets of its mission and cor- environment that allows the athletes to the membership and the volunteer responding goals. compete at their best. force—the officers, the committees, • The USFA has an excellent finan- At the upcoming World Junior and and all those working the national cial base with staff working closely Cadet Championships in Korea, the tournaments—to ensure that the oper- with the administration assuring FIE will meet with the representatives ations are as effective as possible. that the organization is operating in of all federations to discuss what team There will always be those who the black. events are to be included at the 2008 critique a business organization from • A goal of the organization for years Olympics within the limits set by the a different perspective and fervently has finally come into fruition: we IOC. US fencing representatives will believe there are better ways to con- have professional marketing and be working with other federations to duct business. The USFA membership fundraising efforts in place with find a meaningful solution for 2008. elects the officers of the organiza- a plan for visibility and financial In conclusion, one can see that the tion; it is their task to support and growth that will go forward for USFA is a very healthy, dynamic, multi- enhance the efforts of those officers. decades. faceted organization and that the sport The people who are actively engaged is doing extremely well with more in the operations of such an organiza- IN THE WORLD fencers, more coaches, and greater tion use the tools and vision at their • The number of US medals at international recognition. Everyone disposal to continue successful plans Junior World Cup and interna- has some role in its success, from the and implement constructive new ideas tional Cadet competitions this local clubs through the national tour- and recommendations. Thus it is with season has set a record for our naments. Thank you all and we look to this administration. country. The Senior World Cup amiable cooperation with all segments Where are we today? circuit is just getting underway of our fencing world.

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Readers'LETTERS FencingNEWS

Please note that letters must be limited to 400 words or is a life skill that has benefits well beyond the fencing strip. less or they will not be published. Opinions expressed in We do this by recognizing what we need to improve upon, Letters are not the position of American Fencing or the while congratulating and admiring our opponent for the vic- U.S. Fencing Association. American Fencing reserves the tory. Most often, the victor will respond by explaining what right to edit letters for space and clarity. Please include tactics were working against him, reinforcing what we are your name and hometown when submitting letters to doing right. Self esteem spirals upward for both. [email protected]. Another benefit comes when we learn to take criticism from coaches and more experienced fencers, without it wrecking our psychological wellbeing. Criticism can come from anywhere in life. Fencing teaches us how to recognize RESULTS PLEASE that when a coach, a boss, or a parent criticizes an action, In your pages, I often read about the ongoing effort to it is only the action that is being criticized, not the person. make fencing a more recognized sport by the general pub- Of course delivery can have an effect on how we might feel lic. People argue that rules or weapons need to be changed about criticism. But we further learn how to control our own to be television friendly, that it is overlooked in the Olympics reactions, and find the “nugget” we need to perform better coverage, and on. on the next attempt. Being one to look in the mirror for the source of my Fencing also promotes friendships beyond our own problems, I criticize other fencers for not sticking around community, especially if we compete regionally and nation- to see the finals of their own competitions, and make a ally. Perhaps after a long career in competitive fencing, we personal effort to stay and cheer for my champion. It is a might even enjoy lifelong friendships all over the world. sad thing to have a gold medal bout with only three people Broader experiences, exposure to other cultures and loca- involved. If we don’t watch our own sport, why should we tions, help us realize, understand, and embrace the diver- expect anybody else to be interested? sity of our world. Thereby, we improve how we interact with I appreciate what the organization does to promote this all people throughout our lives. sport. But one thing the USFA could do is be way more Thank you again for a fine article. prompt on posting the results from big tournaments; true fans like to stay on top of their champions’ performance. Doug Crockett It is frustrating to have several competitors from our club, Overland Park, Kansas and many from our division at Nationals, but not be able to cheer or cry along with them. You can read about last night’s game in this THE NEED FOR SPEED morning’s paper. You can read minute by minute updates I was pleased to read Mr. Menser’s letter from the winter of the Tour de France off the web. 2006 issue of American Fencing. I and others who gathered If the USFA doesn’t feed the fan base, who will? to watch the saber Olympics last year were disappointed by the theatrics and poor display of technique. The abso- Paul C. Mattor lutely offensive lack of sportsmanship from most of the Hollis, Maine competitors, including our own, was obvious. Olympians should know better. What disheartened us even more was the absence of “game.” GROWING UP FENCING Competitors repeatedly charged one another with as Thank you to Monica Kao. Ms. Kao’s article, “Growing much speed as possible in a desperate hope to touch first. Up Fencing,” was not only timely in our house, but accu- Over and over again, the referee was unable to make a rate, as well. Inspiring points were made to describe a few call. This is not fencing! One may blame the new blockage of the benefits of fencing when the intrinsic values that times. Mr. Bukantz has placed a valid argument. fencing reinforces are practiced on and off the strip. However, just as the flick has not become extinct, My own father and I were just discussing this recently neither should good technique. , in the opinion of as he approved of my son’s involvement in competitive some, is the best hope for fencing to become televised. fencing. My son and I are both fencers. Being involved in a Unfortunately, watching two competitors simply run at sport that is, well, let’s say not exactly “mainstream,” has each other and sweep their blades once or twice is ... well provided additional tangible benefits to my son, while it ... boring. rekindled many in me. I do not pretend that I could defeat these Olympians in Ms. Kao accurately describes that self-reliance and a bout, as I lack the youth and the athleticism. But I am a confidence are built in fencing. Self esteem is also cultivat- better fencer. Thank you. ed when an athlete takes responsibility for the outcome of a bout. It’s easy to have self esteem in abundance when we Jason R. Seachrist win a bout. But to increase self esteem when you’re beaten Winter Garden, Florida

6 Spring 2006 · American Fencing FencingNEWS

Fencing Expands weapon from the metropolitan area. In the past we have had registered entries from 50 years old all the way LONG ISLAND, NY—It seems that fencing is maturing as up to 84, and still fencing,” says James Simpson, organizer a sport—literally. of the fencing competition and also a competitor. Veteran fencing, or fencing among folks aged 50 and There is no geographical restriction on the participants over, is growing slowly but steadily around the country and in the LISG and no limit to the number of events one can the world. Women’s saber was recently added to the slate participate in for one entry fee of $35. Those interested in of events at the official FIE World Veteran Championships. competing should see www.longislandseniorgames.org or The number of vets fencing in national events is growing contact Mildred Wilcox at 631-261-9114 for an entry form. slowly. And non-USFA senior competitions are also pop- Entries are due by May 13; pre-registration is required. ping up all over. Those 80 and older can register for free. The Long Island Senior Games (LISG) is one such competition, having added fencing to the list of 40 sports in 2003. LISG organizer Eleanor Scott says the Games approached the Fencing Club of Long Island hoping to add a great lifelong sport to their roster. “We are trying to show seniors that there are many opportunities to keep your body active and healthy. We had a great turnout, and the people running it are just super, so supportive. It’s so exciting to see the fencing,” she says. All 50 states sport Senior Games or Senior Olympic competitions, but few feature fencing. Some state games, such as the Empire State Games of New York, feature Mas- ters divisions in fencing, as well. Many within the USFA consider the North American Cup to be the pinnacle of competition, but the field can be stiff (no pun intended) at the state level, as well. Last year Michael Cohen of Dix Hills, NY defeated Richard Cohen (2005 Veteran Men’s Saber World Champion) for the gold in the Empire State Games. Left to right: Carter, Penn coach David Micahnik, and O’Loughlin. Photo courtesy Penn Athletics.

Penn Athletics Hall Of Fame

USFA stars Jane Hall Carter and Chris O’Loughlin were inducted into the Penn Athletics Hall of Fame on November 5, 2005. Penn Athletics describe the pair as “two of the most well-established fencers in the illustrious history of Penn fencing.” Carter, a foilist, was a three-time All-American as a Quaker. In her freshman year, she was named first-team All-America while helping the Red and Blue win the NCAA National Championship. She went on to be named sec- ond-team All-America in 1988 and 1989, as well as All-Ivy League in 1986, 1988 and 1989. After graduating from Penn in 1989, Carter was a mem- Michael Cohen, Dennis Fagan,Steven Starer, Lisa Tranquada, James Simpson, and Robert Moore ber of the U.S. National Team from 1990 to 1996. She was a member of the gold-medal team at the 1991 Pan-Ameri- can Games. She was also a member of the 1990, 1991 and The 2006 LISG will hold its fourth year of fencing com- 1993 U.S. World Championship teams and the 1989 World petition at the Fencing Club of Long Island in Deer Park on University Games team. Thursday, June 1, starting at 6 p.m. While the competition Today, Carter works in clinical research for MetaWorks, itself is mixed, award categories are split into five-year age Inc. She is also a member of the board of directors for the brackets, starting at 50-54. USFA. “Last year we had close to a dozen mixed entries in each During the late 1980s, Chris O’Loughlin was equally

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 7 as impressive in men’s epee. A four-time All-America and All-Ivy selection, O’Loughlin captured an individual NCAA national championship in 1986. In addition to his NCAA title as a freshman, he also won the Intercollegiate Fencing Association’s (IFA) Eastern Championship that year. Like Carter, O’Loughlin continued his fencing career after graduating. He was a member of the U.S. Olym- pic Team at the 1992 Games in Barcelona, and was first alternate for the 1996 Games in . O’Loughlin was a member of the bronze medal-winning team at the 1991 Pan-American Games, and he won a silver at the 1989 Maccabiah Games. Even 17 years after graduating from Penn, O’Loughlin is still active in fencing. He was the Div. I national champion in 2000, and a member of the six-time national champion New York Athletic Club team. He has been the men’s epee athlete’s representative to the United States Fencing Asso- Cadets at a World Cup in Germany in February: Steve Kubik, ciation since 1997, and has been the NYAC Fencing Com- Miles Chambley-Watson, Dorian Cohen, Michael El-Saleh, mittee chairman since 2002. Most recently, O’Loughlin Nick Crebs, Carrington Harris, Ben Parkins, Ariel Desmet, served as a committee member for the 2012 Reggie Bentley, Mauro Hamza, and Leszek Stawicki. Photo Olympics bid. courtesy Wendell Kubik O’Loughlin is married to Colleen Clinton; they live in New York City. World Cup Blitz

U.S. fencers have been sweeping across the globe with Jacobson Named Finalist for Atlanta's the force of a nor’easter. Amateur Athlete of the Year Juniors and cadets have been reaching finals at almost half of all World Cup competitions they attend. ATLANTA, GA—2004 Olympic bronze medalist Sada Jacob- They’ve won a whopping 37 medals as of this writing, son (Dunwoody, Ga.) was named a finalist in the category of and the season is not yet over. Amateur Athlete of the Year at the inaugural Atlanta Sports With the 2006 Junior and Cadet World Champion- Awards in February, 2006. ships just around the corner (chronologically, not literally The event, created by the Atlanta Sports Council and —they’re in Korea this year), five juniors are in the top ten presented by Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, will of the World Cup standings. Emily Cross (Fencers Club) honor the most accomplished athletes and teams at all is the third-highest ranked junior women’s foil fencer levels from throughout the metro Atlanta community. in the world. Rebecca (Oregon Fencing Alliance), The Atlanta Sports Awards will honor 10 award recipi- Dagmara Wozniak (Fencers Club) and Caroline Vloka ents who distinguish themselves (Fencers Club) are ranked 4th, 6th, and 7th respectively In conjunction with partner Applebee’s restaurants, the in Junior Women’s Saber, and Kurt Getz (Fenc. Academy nomination process for the awards was open to the public of Westchester) is ranked 7th in the world in Junior Men’s Nominations were taken exclusively at the 37 metro Foil. Atlanta Applebee’s restaurants for six of the awards from U.S. seniors are not being left behind. 2004 Olympic Nov.7 through Dec. 31. Award finalists were then chosen Gold Medallist (Oregon Fencing Alliance) by the 75-member Voting Academy who represent a cross- earned the silver at a world cup in Orleans, France on section of the metro Atlanta sports community. The winners Feb. 4, and Oregon Fencing Alliance teammate Rebecca will be named at the Atlanta Sports Awards Feb. 27. Ward earned a bronze. Zagunis is now ranked 5th in the “The award finalists for the inaugural Atlanta Sports world and Ward 9th—and Sada Jacobson (2004 O.G. Awards are the personification of what is so great about Bronze medallist from Nellya Fencers) is ranked 2nd. Atlanta’s competitive and compassionate spirit,” said Wil- Fencers Club foilist and 2004 Olympian Jed Dupree liam Pate, Atlanta Sports Council chairman. also earned Senior World Cup bronze, at the Senior A in Other Amateur finalists included Olympic swimmer Madrid, Spain on the same weekend. Olympic teammate Amanda Weir and cross country athlete John Tuttle. and clubmate Dan Kellner placed 8th at that competi- Award winners will receive the “ASA” Trophy, a specially tion. designed work by Herff Jones – makers of the Heisman And at a Senior Team World Cup in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Memorial Trophy and the Naismith Trophy. continued on page 38

8 Spring 2006 · American Fencing Postcard from the Strip Fencing as Mastery Focusing on the Journey · Steve Diehl

hen we first approached our son about taking up Italian Stallion. In the climactic final fight scene, Rocky goes fencing, his eyes boggled. Both my wife and I grew the distance, proving to himself that he “weren’t just anoth- Wup playing, and even coached, a good number of er bum from the neighborhood.” Working daily to prove that the white bread American sports. Between us, we had foot- to himself didn’t occur to the character prior to his chance ball, , baseball, swimming, and running, covered. selection by Apollo’s entourage. Nevertheless, we ate it up! Problem was, our eight-year-old son showed absolutely no Rocky went on to win the Oscar for Best Picture in 1976. interest in any of them. Like many boys his age, he was We Americans prefer our opportunities to be thrust upon us passionate about medieval knights and sword play. Then by the hand of Fate. came the techno-appeal of Star Wars’ Jedis. Light swords It is passivity like this—leading to “dabbling” and “hack- and sabers took his fascination to another level. He must ing”—that Leonard abhors. The alternative he proposes have thought we’d lost our minds when is the time-honored value of mastery. In we suggested he consider dueling with contrast to the American obsession with actual weapons. It was like saying, ends and awards, mastery focuses on “Wouldn’t you like to go play in the the journey, the process. Practice is not a busy street?” or, “Why don’t you jump means; it is the end. Leonard lays out five off more bridges like your friend, Billy.” keys to mastery: He was hooked from get-go. 1. Instruction: Leonard advises careful Three years, many long tourna- selection of a respectful master teacher, ments, and a few medals later, he is an including observation of an instructional avid amateur fencer. From not knowing session. Steve and Caleb Diehl at Fencing a from a , we are work- Nationals, Sacramento 2005 (in Utah 2. Practice: A common denominator ing to keep up with his progress, still Fencing t-shirts) among masters is that they treasure prac- struggling to find parallels from our tice. “You settle into it as if into your favor- own athletic experience that might be of value to him. But ite easy chair, unaware of time and the turbulence of the we have also seen a valuable quality in fencing—the com- world. It will still be there for you tomorrow. It will never go mitment to mastery. away.” Fencing is a mastery sport. In his book, Mastery: The 3. Surrender: Not only must the master surrender to Keys to Success and Long-term Fulfillment, George Leonard a trusted teacher, but to the demands of the discipline. It bewails the absence of the concept of mastery in American sometimes means surrendering a hard-won proficiency, culture. The quick fix is in—winning the lottery…discovery taking ones’ game apart in order to reconstruct a better of hidden talent on shows like American Idol—feeding our one. misconceptions about success. The end is the only value, 4. Intentionality: Intentionality means envisioning a and it had better arrive with generous helpings of fame and move, a technique, a strategy, in order to achieve it. press coverage. We prefer to wait, like hidden gems, until a 5. The Edge: One does not become a master who god plucks us from a slagheap of obscurity. Until then, we can challenge the given properties of an art or sport—to lay in the slagheap. explore the edge of the envelope—until one has mastered I recently introduced my son to my favorite sports time-honored fundamentals through concentrated practice. movie—OK, I’ll admit it, my favorite movie period—Rocky As Leonard puts it, “Before you can even consider playing I. Playwrights have long known that watching someone this edge, there must be many years of instruction, prac- do actual work in drama is more tedious than, well--doing tice, surrender, and intentionality. And afterwards? More actual work. Bill Conti’s famous "Rocky Theme" provided training, more time on the plateau; the never-ending path the rich musical background for the boxer’s training scenes. again.” The combination of this tune with scenes of Rocky’s work- The allure of knighthood drew my son to fencing. I am outs became a cliché for aspiring athletes in the seven- thankful for the opportunity for him not only to explore that ties. But in the film, the hero only trains hard for five to six fantasy, but to learn the forgotten value of mastery that is weeks before his big meeting with Apollo Creed, after being the key to success and fulfillment in any arena. plucked from the pages of a volume of obscure Philadel- phia pugilists—and that only because of a timely injury to Leonard, George. Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long- the scheduled challenger and his marketable moniker—the Term Fulfillment. Penguin Group, New York, New York, 1991.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 9 13TH ANNUAL MR. MA CUP

Saturday, June 3 - Sunday, June 4, 2006

* Open to USFA members of all ages (men and women) * Trophies awarded to top three finishers in each event; medals to fourth through eighth place finishers * Over 500 participants competed in 2005 Cinnaminson High School 1197 Riverton Road Cinnaminson, New Jersey

Pre-registration required.

For further information, please visit our website www.fasj.com; email: [email protected]; call (856)424-5070; or fax (856)424-5073.

Sponsored by: USFA South Jersey Division, Blue Gauntlet Fencing Gear, Inc., and the Fencing Academy of South Jersey

ZBIGNIEW CZAJKOWSKI Legendary creator of Olympic & World Champions

Author of UNDERSTANDING FENCING Will be conducting a COACHING WORKSHOP at NEW AMSTERDAM FENCING ACADEMY In New York City

JULY 23 – 30, 2006 Register by June 21 Inexpensive housing available

212-662-FENCE www.nyfencing.com NAFA 2726 Broadway, 2nd Fl. (Between 104th & 105th Sts.) INTENSIVE SUMMER TRAINING CAMPS offered by  2060 Springdale Road, Suite 200 Cherry Hill, NJ 08003

PRE-SUMMER NATIONALS INTENSIVE TRAINING CAMP Date: June 17 – 26 , 2006 (10 days)

2006-07 PRE-SEASON INTENSIVE TRAINING CAMP Date: August 23 – September 1, 2006 (10 days)

Each camp's objective is to improve the level of the competitive fencer in 3 weapons.

Coaches: Andy Ma (saber), Stanislav Gutkovskiy (foil), Brian Kovach (epee), Nitai Kfir (foil), Victor Rutkowski (epee & foil), Gilbert Gelinas (saber)

Training Schedule (3 sessions per day) Morning - Footwork, dummy, partner drills, tactical analysis Midday - Private lessons, offense/defense, bouting Afternoon – Bouting, conditioning training, competition, swimming, beach, bowling

Registration & Payment Information $650 for 10-day camp / $80 per day if less than 9 days

Number of fencers is limited. Please register early. Overnight room accommodations available.

For additional info: Call (856)424-5070;Fax (856)424-5073; Email [email protected]; Website www.FASJ.com.

LAIFC 2006 SUMMER CAMPS

LA International Fencing Center ITALY offers summer camps in Southern California Fencing Training Camp Summer Nationals Prep Camp July 24 – 30, 2006 – an intensive weapon specific training camp before the 2006 Summer National Championship in Atlanta, Georgia. Great opportunity to train along several athletes of the Join high level fencers from across Europe US national fencing teams (cadet, junior & senior). and the United States! Session 1: June 12 – 16 The Italy Fencing Training Camp Coaching Staff includes: Session 2: June 19 –23 is designed for all levels and all Marcos Lucchetti - three weapons. Campers Camp Director and other The camps are directed by: will train at the Club Scherma distinguished U.S. Coaches Gago Demirchian, LAIFC Epee Head Coach Frascati. This Camp will Maestro Salvatore Dinaro and US National Epee Team - Head Coach provide individualized and other Italian fencing masters. Misha Itkin, LAIFC Foil Head Coach group instruction to all fencers in US National Junior Foil Team – Assistant Coach two training sessions each day. Daniel Costin, LAIFC Saber Head Coach US National Saber Team – Assistant Coach

For More Information, please contact: The cost for a full day camp is: $450/week* Marcos Lucchetti at (609) 243-0023 or (609) 647-6991 (excluding hosting costs) [email protected] Early bird registration by May 31, 2006 - 10% off Or visit our web site at: For housing reservation please register by May 21, 2006 www.LucchettiFencing.com Optional weekend excursions to LA attractions over the weekend *For detailed information and other camps please visit www.lafencing.com SportsMEDICINE Sudden Impact Turning Injury into Advantage · Dr. John Heil

Why does it seem that often an nity, as well. The athlete who copes tics. Resilience is an emotional form of athlete’s performance improves effectively with surprise and uses the flexibility, the capacity to take a posi- Qafter a sudden injury? rest period sensibly, has the oppor- tive mind set in the face of adversity tunity to gain an advantage over the and regain composure when it has The question comes from FIE opponent, whether injured or not. been disrupted. It is obvious that the photographer, Serge Timacheff. It is well known that sometimes injury time out is not when these abili- AIt asks why, on occasion, an athletes perform poorly when putting ties are developed. They are there is injured athlete’s performance will dra- too much pressure on themselves. a result of hard work, and a reflection matically improve after an injury time When a minor injury occurs, ath- of the way the player approaches the out. Though this is the exception to letes may lower their expectations game day-in and day-out. It should be the rule, it does happen often enough and thus reduce the psychological no surprise then that the athlete who to garner attention. Essentially, this pressure. If this enables the fencer is most likely to rebound well from is a variation of the question of how to settle down and compete without an injury is the one who is mentally momentum can shift in sport. But being distracted by worry, it could tough. a positive momentum shift usually lead to improved performance. Of The “wild card” factor in injury is begins with a good action or series of course, this can very easily backfire, the underlying biological processes. actions. How is it that injury, a nega- becoming an excuse for not fencing Pain and injury trigger the body’s tive event, can trigger a change to the well. survival mechanism, driving a per- positive? There is no clear, straight- As in all competitive situations, vasive set of neurological, hormonal forward answer to this question, but the mindset of the athlete is of critical and psychological changes. These there are some points to explore about importance. There are 3 general types forces are potent enough to over- the nature of injury and the mind of the of responses to injury: helplessness, ride whatever is the athlete’s state athlete. anger and determination. With help- of mind and body at the moment. The first and most obvious factor lessness comes withdrawal, as the Needless to say these forces can be to consider is whether it is possible athlete seeks safety and protection. quite disrupting. But the athlete who for the athlete to continue. There For the athlete to continue to compete can harness the survival response is are injuries that are too serious or with this mind set (whether injured or able to bring a whole new approach too physically limiting to allow this not) is a set up for failure. Respond- to competing. to happen. But there are surpris- ing with anger carries a mixed ben- It is well understood that playing es—sometimes athletes are remark- efit. At its most fundamental, anger in the “zone” is linked to outstanding ably creative, modifying their game is a potent force driving a change in performance, but that getting into the enough to keep going, even though mindset. On the positive side, anger “zone” is a challenge of its own. Many at first it doesn’t seem possible. It provides energy and can be extraordi- of the qualities of the “zone” - like goes without saying that having the narily motivating. An angry fencer can intensity, focus and persistence - are services of a high quality athletic be intimidating. However, the angry closely linked to the human survival trainer is of tremendous value in situ- athlete is impulsive and prone to poor response. When in a survival mindset, ations like this. decision making—and as a conse- these qualities become more acces- At its most fundamental, an injury quence can be easily outsmarted. The sible, giving the athlete a chance to is an unanticipated interruption in impulsive, injured athlete is also at risk zero in on the “zone.” But there is a play. It is a time out, and a surprise. for worsening the existing injury. Anger catch. Injury can also trigger fear and Time alone can create a shift in requires a two–step transition as the vulnerability, which can drive the ath- momentum. Often this works against initial surge of energy is modulated by lete into a state of helplessness. the injured athlete who can find it intelligence and self-control. Determi- While there is no definitive answer exceptionally difficult to get going nation, which is a mix of resourceful- to the question of remarkable recovery after cooling down. But time is an ness and resilience, defines the ideal from injury, it appears that: For the opportunity. For the athlete who has mindset. Resourcefulness is a sort of mentally tough athlete in the midst of been performing poorly, a minor inju- sport intelligence, which enables the the turmoil of competition, injury can ry can be a chance to calm down and athlete to compensate for the injury offer an opportunity (although a risky refocus. Surprise can be an opportu- and make creative adjustments in tac- one) to find the way to the “zone.”

12 Spring 2006 · American Fencing SportSCIENCE It Takes Two The Fencer-Coach Relationship · Steven Hesky

encing begins with the relation- without a current coach. Lessons from merger with the coach begin to germi- ship between the fencer and the the past are now part of the fiber of the nate and blossom into a unique fencer Fcoach. Regardless of the tro- fencer. However, if the fencer wants to with his or her own style and personal- phies won or skills developed, hav- improve further, he or she may need ity. The student develops an identity as ing a good working relationship with to develop a good relationship with a a fencer. His or her strengths, weak- a coach is a separate but essen- coach again. nesses, and style of training and com- tial achievement for the competitive The cutting edge of the fencer’s peting become visible to the fencer. fencer. A good coaching relationship development is always inextricably With this newly formed identity, the provides the foundation for learning tied to the fencer-coach relationship. fencer meets the coach in a new way. new skills as well as for tolerating the Without a good relationship to the Both dialogue and conflict become stress of competition. coach, the fencer is less able to toler- possible. Ideally, the coach supports As with any relationship between ate the stresses of competition, or to the fencer’s individuality and tolerates a teacher and a student, there are continue to grow stronger as an ath- the occasional rebellion or opposition- requirements of both participants. The lete. At the same time, a poor relation- al stance, for it is here that the fencer’s coach has to be willing and able to ship between the fencer and coach fierceness and toughness on the strip teach; the fencer has to be receptive may inhibit progress or lead a fencer also beings to show itself. and willing to learn. Both must be to give up competing altogether. willing to put in the time and energy Stage Three—Self-Coaching and On- required: in a word, they both need Stage One—Trusts, Hope, Dependency, Going Collaboration. As the fencer’s indi- to be motivated. Positive chemistry and Merger. At first, in the hope of viduality is forged through experience between them makes even challeng- benefiting from the coach’s teaching and the coach’s lessons he or she ing experiences fun. and support, the fencer merges with progresses to the point of becoming A serious fencer-coach relationship the coach’s way of seeing fencing, a coach—if only for himself or herself. shares similarities with the relationship training, and the fencer. This merger is But if the fencer wants to continue to between a child and a parent. For not automatic; it requires trust in the grow stronger, dependency upon the instance, if the relationship is going to coach. “Coach” becomes the name coach is still an essential ingredient. thrive, the coach has to care about the of a particular person, and “Coach The fencer, now an experiences ath- fencer as a person, and the fencer has says” becomes a phrase with numi- lete capable of self-coaching, chooses to be willing to become emotionally nous power. to remain dependent upon a coach in dependent upon the coach. It is a giv- Once this level of trust and partner- order to maximize his or her potential. ing relationship on both sides. Also, in ship is achieved, the fencer can use The trusted coach continues to provide the coach-fencer relationship there are the relationship as a stable foundation support, vision, and wisdom derived predictable stages in development, for fully throwing himself or herself from experience and care. If the fencer each with its own challenges and into the training and competition. The is fortunate, he or she may continue to opportunities. And each stage in the fencer cedes some of the need for have such a relationship throughout relationship corresponds to develop- strategic thinking to the coach and his or her competitive career. ments in the fencer’s level of skill. can focus upon doing what “Coach” Although the stages initially occur expects. This division of labor cre- Conclusion. The requirements for in a natural sequence, once the fencer ates a powerful merger of the coach’s developing a successful coaching has developed to a certain level, the wisdom and the fencer’s heart, talent, relationship are psychological require- coach and fencer may be working on and effort. ments, not physical. The impediments several stages of development simul- to forming a good coaching relation- taneously. Of course, the experienced Stage Two—Assimilation, Separation, ship are also psychological. Overcom- fencer may fence well without a coach. and Individuality. As the fencer contin- ing impediments to developing a good In fact, the capacity to fence without a ues to engage in training and compet- working relationship with a coach is coach is a sign of progress. The expe- ing, he or she begins to adapt and an essential ingredient in a successful rienced fencer has assimilated and to grow from the lessons and experi- career; it is an achievement itself; and digested enough from prior coaches ences undergone and discussed with the positive impact of the relationship to prepare to fence and to fence well the coach. The seeds planted during may last a lifetime.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 13 FencingHISTORY Who's BABY RUTH?* Setting the Records Straight · Andy Shaw

ho hit more home runs in one sweater...Skip Shurtz was national ship was held 38 times between 1927 year? Was it Babe Ruth or champion in foil and epee by the age of and 1950. WRoger Maris or Barry Bonds 23.” My students enjoy learning about In addition, Mr. Nunes won 22 U.S. or Hank Aaron? But who has the our fencing greats and their record- National Team Gold Medals for a total most career home runs? Which run- setting performances. Here are some of 40 U.S. Gold Medals. ning back has the most career yards of the facts that you would gained? know if you lived with U.S. These questions are discussed and in the northwestern corner analyzed constantly by fans and jour- of Louisiana. nalists alike. Soccer fans, I have not attempted fans, golfers and a gaggle of other to look into every category athletic supporters are well aware of for which there is a record; who has set the bar...but our sport is this article is to celebrate unique in its lack of knowledge and forgotten American stars lack of interest in the record setting fencing on the American performances of the past by men like stage. I have listed some i n t e r e s t i n g topics for your perusal and Leo Nunes (left) with his coach, Papa Nadi, in enjoyment. Leghom, Italy

Most Elected AFLA/USFA Longest U.S. National Championship Bout President on Record Dr. Graeme Hammond One hour and thirty-two minutes was the first president of between Colonel Henry Breckinridge the “League” and contin- and Leo Nunes in Epee. ued to be re-elected from l891 to l925, for a total Worst Fencing Lesson span of 34 years. In 1892, Dr. C. C. Terry, a surgeon, was taking a lesson from Professor Most Individual U.S. National Castaldi at the Newport, Rhode Island California Champs! US Epee and Foil champ Skip Titles (All Weapons) YMCA. Castaldi stabbed the doctor Shurtz pictured here with Jan Romary and Maxine Leo G. Nunes: 18 twice in the face through two differ- Mitchell 1 time U.S. National ent masks during the lesson. One of Foil Champion the blows was fatal. If you know of baseball’s George Herman Ruth. 6 times U.S. National Epee Champion a worse lesson, please email me at Just go to one of our Junior Olym- 2 times U.S. Outdoor* National [email protected]. pics and watch the few legendary aging Epee Champion fencing giants walk around almost 3 times U.S. National Saber Champion Fastest Bout on Record anonymously through the throngs of 1 time U.S. Outdoor* National Maurice Kamhi wins bout in Metro- parents and fencers trying to squeeze Saber Champion politan Division in 1967 in 12 seconds past them to rush to their respective 5 times U.S. Three-Weapon* Champion on the clock. strips or to get a deal on equipment at *In 2003, Hanna Thompson won an a crowded vendor. “Look! That’s Paul *20 U.S. National Outdoor Epee NCAA dual meet bout in 6 seconds. Pesthy,” I quickly yelled to my fencers Championships were held from 1920- from Shreveport. 41; 15 U.S. Outdoor National Saber Most Amazing Individual Victory at U.S. “And there’s George Masin.” “And Championships were held 1927-41; Nationals you see that guy sitting in the green The individual 3-weapon champion- Leo G. Nunes wins U.S. National

14 Spring 2006 · American Fencing Epee Championships untouched in outdoor) U.S. National Champion- Breckinridge concedes second 1928. ships place to Raynor. · Adeline Gehrig ....4 titles in a row Most Amazing Team Victory at U.S. and then retired) Women’s Foil Team Record Nationals · Helena Mroczskowska Dow, Max- 1930,’31,’32,’33,’34,’35,’36,’37, In 1956 Maxine Mitchell and Jan ine Mitchell, Harriet King, Caitlin ’38, ‘39: Salle Vince. Joseph Vince York Romary (representing a Califor- Kelly Bilodeaux, and Felicia Zim- was considered by many women to be nia Composite team) fenced the U.S. mermann: 4 titles the first U.S. Coach to take women’s National Women’s Foil Team event · Florence Schoonmaker, Jana fencing seriously. without a third competitor. (All Wom- Angelakis, Erinn Smart, Iris Zim- All ten times the consecutive Foil en’s Foil bouts were fenced for 4 mermann: 3 titles Team Champions were led by Marion touches until 1976 and women’s target Lloyd, Dorothy Brown Locke, Maria area did not extend below the waist Most U.S. National Epee* Titles—Men's Cerra. until 1960.) Note: “Out” refers to outdoor Forfeiting three bouts each round, championships held 1920-1941. Greatest Single Season Performance by a the two women went undefeated Male Fencer to win the U.S. Women’s Foil Team · Leo George Nunes - 1917 (1- Charles George Bothner wins all Crown. Their victory so upset the New touch), 1922 (1-touch), out 1921 three Men’s Individual U.S. National York contingent that a rule was insert- (1-touch), 1924 (1-touch), out Titles (Foil, Dueling Sword, Saber) in ed for the future to require 3 members 1925 (1-touch), 1926 (1-touch), 1897. It was done in 1897 and never to compete. 1928 (1-touch), 1932 (3-touch): 8 again. Mr. Bothner was a piano maker Titles in New York City. · Gustave Marinius Heiss - out 1932 (3-touch), 1933 (3-touch), 1934 (3- Greatest Single Season U.S. Performance touch), 1936 (3-touch), out 1940 by a Female Fencer (3-touch), 1941 (1-touch): 6 Titles Vincent Bradford wins both Wom- · Jose Raoul deCapriles -out 1935 en’s Individual National Titles (Foil, (3-touch), out 1937 (3-touch), 1938 Epee) in 1984. It was never done (3-touch), out 1941 (1-touch), 1951 again. (3-touch): 5 Titles · Paul Karoly Pesthy - 1964, 1966, The Only National Champion Ever in a 1967, 1968,1983 (all 5-touch Weapon bouts): 5 Titles Frank L. Slazenger (founder of the famous sporting goods company) won *The term “Epee” was officially the only two United States Single first used by the A.F.L.A. in 1915. Sticks National Championships ever Norman Armitage at his final Olympic All U.S. National Championships from held, in 1900 and again in 1901. appearance. 1888 - 1914 used the term “Dueling Swords.” Qualifying Record Most U.S. National Saber Titles Norman Armitage qualified for · Most Indoor U.S. National Saber Most U.S. National Epee* Titles—Women's the most Olympic Fencing teams in Titles—, 13 (all five-touch) American history: 1928, 1932, 1936, · Most Outdoor U.S. National Saber · Vincent Hayden Bradford: 1982, 1940 (team selected but Olympics Titles—Norman Armitage, 10 1983, 1984, 1986: 4 titles cancelled), 1944 Olympics cancelled, · Most combined U.S. National · Donna Lee Stone:1987, 1990, 1948, 1952, 1956. Norman graduated Saber Titles—Norman Armitage, 1994: 3 titles from . 17 Biggest Surprise Most U.S. National Foil Titles (both sexes) · 1921, New York is shut out of · Janice Lee York Romary, 10 Men’s Foil Medals. *The Baby Ruth candy bar was · Helene Mayer won 9 U.S. National · Washington D.C. takes 1-2-3 in named for the daughter of U.S. Presi- Championships (8 indoor, 1 out- Men’s Foil in a three-way tie. Major dent Grover Cleveland.....Ruth Cleve- door) Francis Webster Honeycutt wins on land died at a very young age and · Michael Marx won 8 U.S. National indicators and Major Henry Breck- was the only baby known to have lived Championships inridge and Major Harold Marvin in the White House. She was known · Joseph Levis won 8 (6 indoor & 2 Raynor in a dead tie in indicators. across the world as “Baby Ruth.”

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 15 **NEW FOR VETERANS** SUMMER FENCING CAMP IN LAS VEGAS INTENSIVE SUMMER The Fencing Academy of Nevada TRAINING CAMPS Pre-National Training Camp offered by June 19-23, 2006 (9am-4pm)  2060 Springdale Road, Suite 200 Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Provides fencers with intensive, competition-level training in PRE-SUMMER NATIONALS INTENSIVE TRAINING CAMP foil, epee or saber with emphasis on preparation for the 2006 Date: June 22 – 26, 2006 (5 days) Summer Nationals. 5 day camp………..$475.00 2006-07 PRE-SEASON INTENSIVE TRAINING CAMP • MAITRE YVES AURIOL – 4-time Olympic Team Coach Date: August 23 – 27 (5 days) 17 year Head Coach University of Notre Dame Each camp's objective is to improve the level of the competitive veteran fencer in 3 weapons. (For Veterans age 40 & over.) • ASSISTANT COACHES · Susan Jennings – Columbia University graduate; 4-time All-American; Coaches: Andy Ma (saber), Stanislav Gutkovskiy (foil), U.S. National Women’s Foil Team; National and International competitor; Brian Kovach (epee), Nitai Kfir (foil), Victor Rutkowski (epee & foil), Top 8 Nationally Ranked inWomen’s Foil (1996-2000, 2003, 2004) Gilbert Gelinas (saber) · Nicolae Diaconescu – Romanian Pentathlete 2000 Olympics Training Schedule Gold/Silver/Bronze medalist in the and Men’s Epee Midday - Private lessons, offense/defense at National and International competitions. Afternoon - Bouting, competition, beach

Registration & Payment Information Located in the Las Vegas Sports Park, the academy offers $200 for 5-day camp / $50 per day if less than 4 days a state of the art facility with 6 grounded strips and electri- cal scoring equipment. Register soon, space is limited. Call Number of fencers is limited. Please register early. Overnight room accommodations available. 702.838.3320 or visit for a camp brochure: www.fencingacademyofnevada.com For additional info: Call (856)424-5070;Fax (856)424-5073; Email [email protected]; Website www.FASJ.com. [email protected]

placeholder for Proprintwear— pick up from v. 55, no. 2, page 12. Rules/REFEREES Application of the Rules Over-Aggressive Passivity Calls · Jeff Bukantz

ecent columns have focused on and weapons basically hanging at occurs, such as the mutual passivity the changes to the contact time their sides. This was an extremely in the dreaded match, knee-jerk reac- Rin foil and the blockage time rare occurrence, but it was magnified tions often result in flawed new rule. in foil and saber. My sincerest apolo- because it took place in the World No matter how much brainpower gies to the epee fencers, as I haven’t Championships. goes into crafting new legislation, it served up any red meat for you. While this must have been torture is inevitable that new leaks will be Finally, here’s something for you to to watch for the spectators, there sprung when the new rule is put into chew on. was a much bigger problem: This effect. The passivity rule epitomized In 2001, there was a gold medal team match was being televised live this. men’s epee team match at the World throughout Europe on Eurosport When the initial new rule was craft- Championships between favorite Hun- (Europe’s ESPN of sorts). ed and passed, there was one small gary and Estonia. The Estonians, who This was, in no uncertain terms, an problem: The rule covered individual had upset the French to reach the final bouts but not team matches! It was match, crafted a plan to try to keep a slight oversight, as the whole mess the score as low as possible in the six It is inevitable that new occurred during a team match. Ha. bouts not fenced by their star, Kaido Well, that was naturally corrected Kabermaa. Essentially, they deter- leaks will be sprung when right away. But, there was another mined that Kabermaa could outscore a new rule is put into aspect that caused plenty of confu- the three Hungarians, which was their effect; the new "passivity sion. This dealt with the last minute, best chance to win the match. rule" epitomizes this. and whether it was sudden-death or So, the other fencers—I believe, fenced out completely. Believe it or Loit and Vaht—would employ a strat- not, this rule was misapplied at the egy akin to the University of North 2003 Worlds in Havana. Carolina basketball team’s “four cor- unmitigated disaster for the FIE and OK, these were normal growing ners offense,” which is utilized to kill our sport. In a time when we’re more pains for new rules. Eventually, they time without trying to score. concerned about becoming television- all get worked out with a little experi- After the referee’s command of friendly than anything, and have made ence. “Fence,” the Estonians would actually very questionable changes in the tim- But, the most important aspect of retreat to their end line and assume ing and blockage in order to accom- the passivity rule has not been worked a completely passive stance. At this plish that goal, we got caught with our out. Not at all. Not even close. point, the onus was put on the stron- pants down on live television. That aspect is in the application of ger Hungarians to go after them. It was a bore-fest. It was a tragic the rule. At this stage of the game, the Under normal circumstances, the moment for fencing. FIE President referees are all over the map. There is stronger team would take the bait Rene Roch was understandably no consistency whatsoever. and go after the passive fencer. They aghast. And, something had to be Normally, when you have newer would be cognizant of the fact that done in order to prevent this from ever rules, it is the cadre of less-experi- keeping the score low could only ben- happening again. enced referees who over-compensate efit the weaker team, and it would be Hence, the birth of the passivity in their enforcement. The same goes strategic suicide to play the passive rule. for the disproportionate percentage game with them. While the FIE made some on-the- of the wrong passivity calls. Nothing For reasons only the Hungarian spot decisions to stop the Hungary- earth-shattering in that statement, as Team Captain can explain, they decid- Estonia farce, the FIE Rules Com- these refs will make the most mistakes ed to go passive, as well. mission was tasked to come up with in general. The Hungarian fencer, instead of some hard and fast rule to deal with However, with regard to the going after the Estonian, also retreated blatant passivity. passivity rule, it is not limited to the to his end line and assumed a passive As a member of that Commission, I inexperienced. Having attended many position. can tell you that this single issue domi- events since the passivity rule was put Now, we had two fencers on oppo- nated our subsequent meeting. Unfor- site ends of the strip with their arms tunately, when an egregious action continued on page 39

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 17 ParentsCORNER Virtual Fencing Online Resources for Parents · Monica Kao

t’s not difficult to identify the skills category at the top right-hand corner. opinions, politics, rumors, and just and rules of most youth sports. Your athlete has just been injured in about any other fencing concern. IParents often can coach children a qualifying tournament and had to The website’s creator and admin- with the same advice they heard as withdraw, and the coach tells you to istrator Craig Harkins describes the kids, to keep an eye on the ball. Ref- petition the USFA. Well, what does that contributors to the site as a commu- eree calls may start out unfamiliar, mean? A clarification is in the Athlete nity. “No one person could make a site but with the help of other parents on Handbook located in the “Athletes & with all this information. There is a core the sidelines, the rules soon become Coaches” category. Also under “Ath- of experts who have stuck with this common knowledge. But fencing is letes and Coaches,” clicking on “Find site, but it is the fencing community different. Fencing’s culture is not very a Club” will send you to a map of the that makes this site what it is.” All of well known in American schools and US linked to division websites and the forum’s topics have been indexed, communities, and so parents have information about clubs. “Fencing in so a parent can enter a topic on the to make an effort to learn about it. College” can link you to the NCAA search function to see what fencers Nothing can replace watching fenc- website and the sites of college fenc- have already said about it. If the sub- ing, trying it out for yourself, or getting ing teams and clubs. The sites listed ject hasn’t been discussed, Harkins involved in your child’s club or division under “Equipment Vendors” let you suggests parents start a new topic, for learning about fencing. But don’t compare brands and prices of equip- “Usually within a couple of hours there overlook the computer as an addi- ment. All the information that a fencer are answers and suggestions on the tional source of information. Next time must know in order to fence in the board.” Harkins says some parents you have a few extra minutes at your USFA is on this website. are regular contributors to the forum, desk, log onto these websites: writing about what a parent needs to The Regional Youth Circuit know before going to a tournament, The United States Fencing how to approach a referee, and how Website—www.usfaryc.org to give your child support and space Your young fencer is hooked; her Association Website— at a tournament. hopes are set on becoming a competi- www.usfa.org Often the forum advice goes above tive fencer. This is the site that will start If your fencer is not attending and beyond the official word. High her on that goal. The regional youth cir- national or international tournaments, school students have expressed con- cuit is a series of tournaments for youth you may think this website has little to cerns to the forum about college fenc- 10-, 12-, and 14-year-olds, giving them offer. The homepage can overwhelm ing. Temple University Assistant Fenc- tournament experience not too far from a new fencer or parent with its facts ing Coach Brad Baker is a regular home and a qualifying path for national and figures of the latest deadlines, contributor. He gave them compre- competitions. Like the larger, national confirmed entries, results and links hensive answers on NCAA programs, tournaments, the super youth circuit to forms and schedules. Think of the regulations, and scholarships. College tournaments award national points. website as a newspaper, with report- students contributed their personal Regional and super youth circuit infor- ing on what’s new and imminent on experiences. A few years ago, a rag- mation, schedules and entry forms are the homepage and the in-depth sto- ing debate on how certain actions all posted on this site. ries on fencing on the inside. Every in foil should be called by a referee parent new to the sport should read consumed the forum. The chair of the the “Information For Parents” article Fencing.net—www.fencing.net Fencing Officials Commission (FOC), found at the bottom left-hand side of The subtitle to this website reads, Bill Oliver wrote in a detailed interpre- the home page for an explanation of “Your guide to fencing.” To that, I would tation of the rule in question and an the rules, a description of the weap- add, "from the fencer’s perspective." On explanation of how the FOC calls the ons, and advice on what to bring to a this site you’ll find training drills, armor- action. tournament. Trying to figure out refer- ing tips, and product reviews written For the fencing parent, feeling eeing? Consult the hand signal chart by fencers, coaches, and experts. The lonely among the basketball, soccer, in the “Fencing: A Modern Sport” discussion forums are open-ended and parents, here’s your com- article under the “New to Fencing” conversations on personal techniques, munity.

18 Spring 2006 · American Fencing Fencing Club Summer Camps

Elite Sabre Camp Intermediate 3 Weapon Camp July 23 -29 July 31 – August 5 This camp will incorporate physical conditioning, footwork, tactical drills and com- This camp is designed for beginner to petition fencing. This camp is for fencers with intermediate fencers of all ages. Emphasis is on competition experience and will be attended by footwork, tactical games, drills and open fenc- a number of top junior and senior competitors. ing. Coached by Ariana Klinkov and David Coached by Andy Ma and Ariana Klinkov. Blake.

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he fencer was glaring at me as not bet against the possibility of that There are conductive paints that though I had just done him dirt. happening. have had a vogue at one time or TWell, I suppose I had, for it was Fencers sometimes think that slap- another. There was one based on cop- at the inspection table, and I was ping a bit of good ol’ duct tape over per, intended for circuit board repair, pointing to a rather substantial hole in such a gap would be a suitable safe- and much experimented with many the bib of his mask. That’s a no-no at guard. Believe me, it isn’t. Quite apart years ago: it didn’t last, was expensive any competition. from the disgusting glue that is going and looked terrible. Another, based I am always surprised by the peo- to get all over your bib before you do a on nickel, worked a bit better, but ple who come up and hand in things decent repair, tape just isn’t a suitable didn’t look any better: it turned black for inspection when a quick glance fix, even for a day. What you need is in a short time, and although it was would show that there’s an obvious darning or patching, using substantial still conductive, made the mask (or problem. This is not quite the same thread, or (this is a favorite fencing whatever) look horrible and very sus- as, though perhaps close to, the atti- repair kit item) dental floss. It doesn’t pect. At present, if you can find a tude of a certain experienced inter- need to be the waxed type, or chloro- fencing supplier who carries it, a kind nationalist of some years ago, who phyll-doped, but suit yourself. of “silver paint”—the Germans call it was reluctant to get his gear together So far, we are talking about foil and “Leitsilber”—does work, and is fairly and hand it over for preliminary check epee bibs, which lend themselves to unobtrusive. However, it is swingingly and maintenance before its formal simple darning. The conductive sur- expensive, and why not? It’s pure silver submission for the FIE inspection: face of a saber bib is another case. It metal, ground up fine in a glue-and- “just toss it on the counter; then fix solvent medium that can be painted what they don’t like and throw back onto (small) spots. If you have to do a at you.” That struck me as a decid- big area, it is not cost-effective. edly cavalier attitude, but the guy tape just Another problem with saber masks belonged to a particular corner of the arises from the frequent loss of the riv- fencing world—experienced old-tim- isn’t a ets that hold the bib at the cheek area, ers will know what I mean. suitable fix, or, in stronger designs, hold down the The fellow with the offending bib metal pieces which reinforce the cheek expressed puzzlement and confu- even for a areas. Since in saber, people are per- sion, and little-boy helplessness (he petually and enthusiastically banging was not a little boy): what was he day away at just those spots, those rivets supposed to do? Get it fixed. The do get broken. They can be replaced hole was one that could be care- by quick pop-rivets, or a bit more fully darned. Darning does need to elaborately, which is how I prefer to be done carefully, of course, so that may have been penetrated and need do it, with small bolts (steel, round a jagged lump is not created that darning for safety, but then it will head, 6-32, 1/2”) and washers on the could still serve to catch and pull on also need electrical maintenance; in outside, and hex cap nuts (either metal the mask. any case, it is far more likely to be or nylon) on the inside. The pop rivet The problem with a hole in a seriously abraded on the surface, so leaves a shaggy interior and might bib is twofold (no, that’s not a pun). that the necessary conductivity is lost. cut the wearer, the cap nut is smooth Once the surface of the bib has been Patching with electrically conductive and will not; that is the ground of my penetrated, a blade entering the gap cloth is the simplest approach. Such preference. will have less to work through, and patches, whether stitched on or held It could be the subject of another will effectively be steered to apply its by some sort of glue (“hot glue” from a discussion, but it is also a good idea maximum force in a tight area. What gun works well), need to have at least to give some occasional attention to might even be worse, the blade may one edge rolled under to make appro- keeping your mask—and bib, espe- grab the bib and twist the fencer’s priate conductive contact--otherwise cially—clean, and if not simon pure, at head around in an ugly snapping you can have a dead patch and the least not downright septic and stinky. motion. I doubt if one’s neck would last state of that mask will be worse Your choice: after all, it’s your nose automatically be broken, but I would than the first. that’s in it.

20 Spring 2006 · American Fencing ClubTIPS Demographics Part Three: How to Find the Perfect Students · Meghan Gardner

n previous articles, I discussed inside your exact demographics who The more detail the author pro- elements regarding opening your would never even consider touching vides, the better. Iown school, various expenses and, a foil (believe it or not, they do exist). in particular, the array of conditions But demographics are a good way 4. For many people who start fenc- to consider when renting your own to plan the lowest risk and highest ing, this is their only sport. Most space. Now let’s take a look at the chance of yield. are not into team sports where second most important aspect of What we have found is that fenc- an entire team is performing at your business (we’ll talk about the ers tend to be a very particular demo- once… they prefer the one-on-one first most important in the next arti- focus of a fencing bout. If they cle): Your students. pursue other physical activities, Obviously, the best way to open Instead of they tend to be drawn to other your Salle doors is with a pre-estab- using a costly “war sports” like archery, martial lished body of students. This can be arts and marksmanship or less accomplished by setting up your own “hand grenade” widely known activities like jug- classes through recreation depart- approach to gling, horsemanship and renais- ments, the local YMCA, health clubs sance dance. and other organizations that are will- advertising, ing to hire you for a short term. It is direct your 5. The degree to which fencers tend best to make sure you let your inten- to be technologically oriented is tions known to these organizations so marketing dollars impressive. They surf the internet that there are no hard feelings when surgically. with ease, love the latest tech- you split off. Since you offer a unique gadget, often are employed or a service that they likely do not already student in the technology industry have, most will be willing to work with graphic. Please remember, if you are (or an industry that relies heavily you. Then, when you have a strong reading this and you say to your- on technology) and a surprising student count, you can close out your self “this doesn’t sound like me and number have built their own com- contract term and ask your students I’m an avid fencer” that this doesn’t puters. to consider joining you at your new invalidate the idea that most people school. who fence or who are interested in 6. Another strong field for fencers is If you play your cards right, you fencing tend to have these qualities. medicine. Doctors, psychologists may even negotiate with the recre- So with that in mind, here are some and surgeons like the deductive ation department to continue adver- of the attributes of prospective fenc- nature of sport fencing. tising your classes but then the rec- ing students: reation students attend classes at 7. Children who are drawn to fencing your Salle and the rec department 1. The average fencer holds above also tend to be extremely tech- gets to keep a portion of the fee. This average academic grades—par- savvy. They often like to participate is a win-win situation where the rec ticularly in the areas of math and in online gaming, video games and department gets money for advertis- science. table top games. These can even ing your classes – but none of the be the primary source of socializa- headaches of scheduling space for 2. Fencers tend to be exceptionally tion. Children who fence tend to you to operate. methodical and detail oriented. have at least one parent employed When deciding where to start your They like measurable results and in the technology industry. classes (and ultimately open your they enjoy examining/debating school), take a good long look at the supporting data. 8. And above all, fencers desire men- demographics of the town. Keep in tal stimulation in their physical mind that the demographics are not 3. On the other side of the coin, fenc- exercise. They like games of strat- fail-safe. There are always students ers often have an active imagina- egy more than games of chance. outside of known demographics that tion. They tend to like fantasy and would take your classes… and people science-fiction or historical fiction. continued on page 39

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 21

ClubPROFILE

Building a Competitive Fencer's Club Commitment and Profits · Mauro Hamza

alle Mauro has operated suc- Club Floor Plan/Strip Layout fencers are competing to ensure seri- cessfully for eight years, pro- At Salle Mauro, experience has ous practice. Sducing generation after genera- taught us that certain space consid- We have competition strips and tion of competitive fencers in all three erations help increase training focus many smaller practice strips—16 in weapons. In this article we’ll share a and organization. First, there should all. In a perfect world we’d employ few things we’ve done to develop a be a separate space for parents away only maximum-sized FIE competition competitive club. from fencing area. The separating strips, but as it stands we often have First, our coaches have a great space difficulties during peak fencing deal of personal hours. The practice involvement with strips ensure that students. We look during time of high upon ourselves as membership load, friends and men- very few people tors, our involve- are forced to stand ment following around waiting for them through years strips. of formative devel- opment. Competing at Equipment The purchase of high levels requires competitive equip- a higher degree of ment is encouraged time and financial as soon as the fenc- investment for the ers begin serious fencer and puts bouting. The sub- pressure on the stantial initial equip- coaches to ensure ment investment the continued suc- helps ensure finicky cess and participa- students “stick” tion of the student. with the sport long Most fencers/par- enough to get into ents aren’t ready A feeling of family is part of the glue that holdsany club together. Parents and students of Salle Mauro at National Championships in 2005. the routine. Make for the commitment sure you have club required for highly affiliation material competitive fencing and this must be should be clearly marked and com- on hand, like t-shirts and patches that slowly and carefully developed over municated to parents. Not only can help create a sense of team spirit and the years. parents and visitors be distracting to unity. But the way we have structured students, but separating them helps Salle Mauro from day one built expec- the kids to mentally separate them- tations of our members and people selves from a more comfortable home Organization/Routine seeking out our club that our mission environment to the competitive fenc- Coaches take an active role in is a serious one—to train competitive ing arena where they must rely only organizing and managing every aspect fencers. Profit takes a back seat to on themselves. of practice. Initially, this is quite time this mission. Fencers need enough space to consuming. However, after establish- So as our fencers bring home med- be organized by weapon and skill ing a routine, our advanced students als from competitions, parents and chil- level and assigned certain designated help oversee activities thereby freeing dren who are seeking to compete seri- areas in which to work. During free us up to focus on personal lessons. ously in sport are the ones who come fencing time, our coaches give les- Personal lessons should be to us—and the cycle continues. sons near to the strips on which their emphasized as early as possible. They

24 Spring 2006 · American Fencing provide a solid foundation for future Speaking of word of mouth, experienced fencers a sense of fulfill- development and are a key factor in this is our strongest recruitment ment and pride. future success. This takes lots of time tool. When kids bring home medals We are proud to have such com- and resources. Salle Mauro has seven from Junior Olympics and National mitted athletes and parents. Without coaches, three of them full-time pro- competitions, we make sure the them, we could not have achieved the fessionals. The medal count for Salle results we did. Mauro keeps going up—mainly due The club to the quality of our coaches and the has a size- dedication of our fencers. Group unity is a great able number recruitment tool of youth and Membership adult recre- Salle Mauro’s mem- ational and fit- bership structure is built ness-motivat- around the competitive ed fencers, but it is perhaps mission. Fencers join an best known nationally for its escalating series of pro- competitive programs. grams—beginner, interme- The club is frankly diate, Competitive, silver, not a huge money maker. and finally gold elite. Gold For example, we recent- elite membership is by ly resigned our lease. We invitation of the coaches wanted to move to bigger only. Membership in the facility which would cost top groups becomes an much more money, but we aspiration, a goal to work didn’t have the revenue. We towards. decided to stay two more Lessons are built into years. It took several years, the program fees. Fees go starting in 1995, for the club up as the fencer progress- to become large enough to es to the next group, but support itself. only because the number This is because we do of sessions and lessons not have growth and profit included go up as well. We as the main goal, though feel charging for individu- the club does make enough al lessons does not build money to survive on its team spirit. Salle Mauro Saber Coach Oliver Diaz and his student David own, without outside input. If you put people into Filteau at the 2005 Summer Nationals; David took 6th place in To run the club as a money a program, they feel much his event. maker, in my mind, have more like they belong to to sacrifice coaching. That something. Everyone else in program news gets put into their school said, our next step in the growth of the has a goal to achieve, and this unites newspapers, and this brings mem- club will be to seek private sponsors, them. This leads not only to stronger bers. We have never advertised to reduce the cost of travel, training results but also very strong member- Salle Mauro. and competition for our members. ship retention numbers. Group unity is Salle Mauro members have a great recruitment tool, too. Everyone been winning and placing in events wants to put their kids in successful Communication ranging from local youth club tour- Communication is key. Make sure programs with a good family environ- naments on up through regional, your members stay informed and ment, and that’s what we’re doing. national, and even elite World Cup you understand their needs and con- competitions. Two of our members cerns. recently made the 2006 Junior and Community Results of fencers should be well Cadet World Championships team We think of our club as a communi- documented within the club so that (Benjamin Parkins and Neely Brand- ty and try to get everyone involved and everyone can share in the clubs suc- field-Harvey); Rebecca Rea was feeling like they are part of the club’s cess. At Salle Mauro, we post the named a first alternate. Our club success. A community-based club results on our walls and send out an feels justifiably proud of the accom- operates more smoothly and provides email newsletter detailing their suc- plishments of our fencers and look an invaluable source of resources and cess about every two weeks. This forward to continued success at all word-of-mouth advertising. gives new fencers aspirations and levels in 2006.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 25 Coaching Clinic

July 23-30, 2006

with Prof. Zbigniew Czajkowski "Father of the Polish School"

at New Amsterdam Fencing Academy, New York City

Daily Lectures, Exercises, and Video Analysis For more information visit www.nyfencing.com or call Jason Sheridan at (212) 662-FENCE

Co-Sponsored by United States Fencing Coaches Association www.usfca.org

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������������������������������������� ��������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� FeatureBEN SOLOMON

Ben olomon by William Reith · photos by Panoramic Visions Photography & FencingPhotos.com

n December 14, 1995, Alan Achkar wrote a story in the Plain Dealer Metro Osection entitled, “Boy was born to fence.” This title captured the essence of SCleveland native Ben Solomon at the early stages of his fencing career. Compare that title with Ben’s success now and future suc- the way, provide a strong insight to the character and make-up cesses and goals, and one can derive the true meaning of the of this remarkable young man. term “Champion”. Not only has Ben had to overcome the One of Ben’s finest qualities is that of a teammate, and team opponents he faces on the fencing strip, but he has battled back leader. In high school he undertook the task, of developing from injuries and medical ailments to reach his next goal of and training his own West Geauga High School Fencing Club, becoming National Epee Champion. going on to win the State High School Championships in their Ben’s outlook on winning and losing, training hard, listen- first season, even when only men’s and women’s foil results ing to your coach, and making sure you are having fun along counted.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 27 Ben’s quest for the 2004 Olympic Team faded quickly, as and Junior Championship twice with all of these conditions seismoiditis of his left foot affected his fencing and training for dogging him all of the way. about two years leading up to those Games. If he trained hard, His next challenge was to seek his first National Senior Epee he could not fence well due to the pain and condition of his Championship in 2005. Success there could help put him on foot. If he laid-off the training to accommodate the foot injury, both the World University Games Team to Izmir, Turkey, and his fencing on the strip did not hold up. the World Championship Team to Leipzig, Germany. His condition of seismoiditis is painful swelling and irrita- After falling apart at the 2005 NCAA Fencing Champion- tion of the seismoid bone, in the ball of the left (rear) foot. Ben ships, when his heart went into serious A-Fib the evening of actually had two bones where there should be only one, or a the first day of competition, it was time to do something about fused bone. it. His A-Fib had been a now regular occurrence, and quite a When the problem was finally diagnosed, the first doctor problem affecting his performance and overall health. told him, “Just take it easy, don’t Solomon had many episodes do too much and it will not give of A-Fib, many which required you any problem.” Obviously, hospitalizations, including seven this was the wrong prognosis for or eight cardioversions (elec- a competitive athlete. trical shocks to restore regular The second opinion was to rhythm). have the bone removed, a very His father, Dr. Arthur Solo- delicate and tricky operation. He mon, an emergency room phy- had it done in August of 2003, sician at Hillcrest Hospital in while home from his first year at Cleveland, called on his resources Princeton University. The recov- to pinpoint the problem, and ery took longer than expected, have it corrected. and Ben lost almost all of the In May of 2005, it was decid- 2003-04 season, his push for the ed Ben should undergo a cardiac Olympic Team was put on hold. ablation with Dr. David Callans With the foot surgery just at UPenn Hospitals. Cardiac abla- behind him, Ben began train- tion is a relatively new procedure ing with three new and different in which a catheter is threaded coaches: Aladar Kogler, Michel into the heart, the misfiring area Sebastiani and Marcos Lucchetti. located, and the errant cells, from Each coach taught a different a blood vessel leading into the game and Ben had to adjust to heart, are destroyed. three new styles. “The procedure was a huge He switched grips from decision because of some of the French to a pistol . Along Ben Solomon with coach and author William Reith on winning relative risks, largely due to the with this came a tactical change the Junior Olympics in 2003 (Photo: Serge Timacheff, Fencing- fact that this particular proce- to a foil type of second intention, Photos.com) dure has been done for only the with a lot of blade play. With the last 5 years,” says Solomon. tactical switch and the compensation mode derived from the “In spite of the risks, we went ahead with the decision to foot injury and surgery, Ben lost sight of his strong, balanced have the procedure. I underwent a successful ablation with Dr. footwork, with direct attacks with absence of blade leading to Callans. The experience was made easier by the whole family second and third epee intentions. The simple timing hits which being there, including (Solomon’s girlfriend) Jen Kunz.” come from balance and confidence were put on hold with no With this simple procedure, Ben’s black cloud was lifted, rear foot to provide the impulsion. from both his mind and body. The illness which had been Ben also suffers from exercised induced asthma. He uses affecting his health and fencing performance for so many years an inhaler when things start to shut down. It always takes its was suddenly gone. Only time will tell if the procedure is a toll somewhere during the bouts. Whether it matters or not is success, but judging from his first two competitions after the dependent on how well he is fencing, and what kind of shape surgery, his fencing career is back on track and heading in the he is in at the time. right direction. Little known to the rest of the fencing world, Ben had one more huge medical condition to overcome: A-Fib, also know as On to Nationals… atrial fibrillation, or heart arrhythmia. With only a few weeks of training under his belt after recov- Ben has won each National Youth Championship, Cadet, ering from the cardiac procedure, Ben set off on the next step

28 Spring 2006 · American Fencing of his journey to the 2005 US National Epee Championship in It had taken almost two weeks of intense work on Ben’s Sacramento. basics, footwork, balance, conditioning, and tactical vision to Things looked good from the start. His only loss occurred compensate for the time missed training and recovering from in the preliminary round to Zucker, 4-5. the heart procedure. His game was not perfect, but he found his Ben would not forget this. Ben dispatched all other oppo- good game in time and a majority of good fencing produced nents handily throughout the direct eliminations, until he victory after victory. faced Noah in the final match. With a 9-4 lead during the first He went on to Vancouver to place 3rd in the World Cup, time period, it looked like another rout, until Ben suffered an and solidify his place on the Senior World Championship asthma , taking the sting out of his aggressive style of Team, competing Oct. 18-20 in Leipzig, Germany. fencing. Most recently, in January 2006, Ben represented the U.S. The attack took its toll, as Zucker tied the score at 9-9, then team in Kuwait City, Kuwait, alongside Ben Bratton, Isaac proceeded to take a commanding lead of 12-10 at the end of Erbele, and Soren Thompson. The U.S. men placed 4th in a the first period. field of 21 teams. At the time of this writing, Ben is ranked Direct elimi- nation bouts go three, 3-minute periods, with a 1- minute coaching- break in between, similar to a box- ing match. After the break, I knew that Ben would come back, as he recovers strong to start each new period. He did not disappoint, as he tied the score quickly, 12-12, attacking strong and direct. I knew that the next two touches would be doubles, tak- ing the score to Solomon in the final bout against Noah Zucker at the 2005 National Championships 14-14, La Belle. Facing a sudden death touch, or I should say, sudden victory touch, just as it second in the U.S., having placed second in the season’s first should be in a National Championship, I calmly told myself North American Cup in December in Pittsburgh, Pa. the last touch would be Ben’s. He would attack, as years of Ben’s next challenge is to maintain his berth on the 2006 coaching had taught him when the touch was critical, and World Championships team and work towards the he did! dream of fencing at the 2008 Olympic Games. It looked like Afleet Alex at the Preakness coming off the Helping to develop the U.S. Epee Team to finish in the final final turn into the straightaway. Ben took two steps forward, eight of the 2006-07 World Championships and Team Trials stumbling almost to his knees. Zucker saw his opportunity, will be the surest and most direct route to the 2008 Olympic and launched a strong, “I have got you now!” counterattack. Games, both for himself, and the U.S. Team. But with the months of blade-taking parries from Marcos Luc- Whatever the results, just as he won his National Cham- chetti, his coach at Princeton, Ben took over roaring like a tiger, pionship title, Ben will do it with style, grace and character, as if to say, “No, Noah, not this time”! Still recovering from the because that is Ben Solomon! stumble, Ben took Quarte, and made the perfect riposte to the shoulder, and the bout was over!!!! Scoreboard, 15-14, Fencing photos in this article courtesy of panoramic visions. and Ben Solomon was National Champion. com (703)648-0957 and www.fencingphotos.com.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 29 FeatureTRAINING CAMPS Have Foil, Will Travel

photos courtesy of Massialas Foundation International Camps, www.fencingUSA.com

n this issue, we feature some information from 2006 Olympic bronze medalist Sada Jacobson on finding a great training camp, plus an Iaccount of how elite athletes train for international competition. Camps are one of the most popular ways to jump start your training, meet and spar with great fencers from all around the country, and sometimes, travel the world as well. Camps are held by clubs all over the U.S.A. for all age groups levels of proficiency, and an increasing number of clubs are putting together trips to train with athletes in Europe and Asia. These young athletes took part in a camp in —and an impromptu training session on the Great Wall—organized by Massialas Foundation International Camps, www.fencingUSA.com

30 Spring 2006 · American Fencing Training the Team Saber Team Holds Camp In New York Article and Sidebar by Sada Jacobson

he New York Fencer’s Club recently hosted the winter 2005 U.S. men’s saber national team training camp, Tunder the direction of national men’s saber coach Yury Gelman. The invitational camp, a preparatory session for the 2006 competitive season, took place from December 26th to the 30th and drew top men’s and women’s saberists from champion Jason Rogers, who triumphed over Paul Reyfman around the country, including five members of the 2004 Athens for the gold. Olympic team. Assistant coach Sergey Isayenko was pleased with the The week’s focus was on intensive footwork, drilling, and performances of both fencers, noting that both Rogers’ and tactical exercises intended to develop advanced strategic and Reyfman’s results were backed up by solid top-8 perfor- technical skills. As such, there was somewhat less emphasis on mances at the Houston Division I NAC two weeks later. (In traditional fencing camp fare of conditioning and cross-train- fact, seven of the eight finalists attended the camp). ing. Participants recall that the most memorable feature of Still, practices were intense and thorough, designed by Gel- the camp, however, was not so much the level of competi- man to complement several team and individual competitions tion itself as the sense of camaraderie within the group, both in the latter half of the week. The finale was a two-day mara- in and out of practice. Fencers trained together, regardless thon individual event in which competitors fenced multiple of age, gender, or experience, and were encouraged to lead rounds of pools and fought for each place in the direct elimi- each other in warm-up and conditioning exercises. Daria nation tableau, won by 2004 Olympian and defending camp Schneider, member of the 2004 cadet national team, said, “I

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 31 was constantly challenged and had the opportunity in the to make more use of these training opportunities so that we competition to fence against people I normally would not can advance on the international scene.” compete against.” And this opportunity was obviously a good one. An Most of the athletes agree that these types of camps are impromptu team event pitting the junior men against the critical if the United States wishes to solidify its growing cadets was easily the most emotional, dramatic match of presence in international fencing over the coming years. the week and a showcase for a promising young team. Neck Camps provide the venue for top fencers to train without and neck throughout the match, the juniors relied on age distraction, while up-and-comers develop new talent by and experience, pulling out a narrow 45-43 victory over a training with the best. Although the majority of American spirited cadet team. elite fencers will only attend one or two camps in a year, The final result, though, was not as remarkable as European powerhouse teams meet for five or six, carefully the exhibition of ability, dedication, and ambition by placed before major competitions to maximize performance the newest generation of elite-level fencers. Hopefully, and team solidarity. more national team camps like this one will help these Rogers remarked, “It was great to be together—usually fencers hone their raw talent to become the best in the our national team is such a segmented community. We need world.

Finding a Training Camp What to look for, what to expect

The strongest European fencing 3. Format: Camps generally able, many camps offer homestays, countries send their national team offer a wide range of different activi- where you are hosted by a local to between four and six camps each ties, including conditioning, cross- fencing family. You’ll be living in close year. If you want to train like the training, footwork, drilling, free-fenc- quarters with people you may or may pros, or just have a great experience ing, bouting, video analysis, strategy not know very well, so opting for this training with a new set of people, a sessions, and more. Find out how can be the start of a wonderful, last- fencing camp might be a good idea. practices will be structured, both ing relationship with a new group of There are many camps out there, so daily and weekly, to ensure that you people, or a total nightmare, for much do you research before you commit. will be getting what you want and the same reason. The following guidelines should help need at practices. Many camps con- you narrow your search to find the clude with competitions run by the 6. Timeframe: Fencers train- camp that best meets your individual camp organizers or are designed as ing for a competitive circuit should needs. preparation for outside events, like pay attention to where camps fall in Summer Nationals. Participating in their schedule. Ideally, you want to 1. Coaching: This is one of the these can be a great way to gauge peak for certain key competitions most important elements of a suc- improvement. over the course of the year and the cessful camp experience. Learn as dates, duration, and intensity of a much as you can about the coach(es) 4. Location: Camps are offered camp can either help or hinder this with whom you will be working. Find in a variety of cities and settings. You process. Think about what you want out about their training and certifica- might want to be located on a col- to accomplish and how a camp can tion, competitive and teaching expe- lege campus if you are a prospective assist you in this. rience, and students’ results. Make student, in a large city if you want to sure their style, both personality- and take in some of the sights, or out in 7. Social setting and extracur- fencing-wise, is compatible with your the middle of nowhere if you want to ricular activities: Camps shouldn’t own. completely focus on fencing with no just be about work, they should be outside distractions. fun, too! Many camps offer social 2. Opponents: Who’s going events or activities like parties, sight- to be there? Camps often adver- 5. Accommodations: This is seeing, sporting events, etc. tise notable camp alumni—find out if going to be a very physically demand- these fencers are planning to attend ing period of time, so you need your 8. Cost: Remember, this is an again this year. Additionally, check rest. Make sure the accommodations investment in your athletic career. with the organizers about expected are comfortable and affordable. While Choose wisely, but be assured that a age and experience ranges. hotel or dorm rooms are often avail- great camp is worth the cost.

32 Spring 2006 · American Fencing AthleteQ&A Lose and Learn Tim Morehouse on Fencing Stronger Fencers

A very good fencer at my club beats me 15-1 variety of levels, taking every night. What am I supposed to get out of lessons, doing foot- Qfencing someone who is so much better than I work and drills is the am? combination needed to improve. Fencing stronger fencers, and even sometimes los- Setting realistic ing badly to them, can have its benefits, but it should short-term and long- Aonly be one part of your general improvement plan. term goals and con- If the only person you are fencing against is someone who stantly measuring you are losing to 15-1 then the benefits will probably be yourself against your negligible. If taken in the context of an overall plan that progress is also key includes fencing a wide variety of levels, then when you do to improving. Always fence against someone strong, it can help provide you with try to figure where you a benchmark for where you are and also provide you with are, and where you some direction in terms of areas for improvement. want to go. Practice I went through a long time at Fencer’s Club where I is exactly that -- prac- would lose every bout at practice. I remember fencing Akhi tice. It’s not about win- photo by Brentwood Imaging, Las Spencer-El and he’d beat me every single time, sometimes ning every bout, but Vegas, Nevada badly. He was the bar for excellence for me and so I wanted learning and working on to learn as much as I could from him. Part of that included things. Pay attention to what good fencers are hitting you not just fencing him, but also watching how he fenced on. What a lot of good fencers will do is take advantage of other high level and low-level fencers. Akhi was great in your weakness areas and avoid your strong areas. If I can terms of being gracious enough to fence me and I probably hit someone in preparation 15 times, I might do it until they wouldn’t be where I am today if it hadn’t been for the num- make me change. If you can find patterns in where you are ber of times he fenced me. Having a mindset of wanting gaining and losing touches then it can give you an area to to fence the best people is a good to have, but fencing a focus on in your game.

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 33 Don’t be afraid to ask and fence the best, even if they might not give you an answer or be rude sometimes. Not everyone will answer, but it can be good to actually ask drill stronger fencers, “What were you seeing, what am I doing? What could I do differently?” You’re trying to gather as much knowledge as you can. I wouldn’t be where I am now Fencer A is on the attack, Fencer B defends. Fencer if I didn’t go through years of losing to Keeth {Smart, two- A’s goal is to finish without getting hit in preparation. time Olympian} and Akhi, and not letting it deter me. Step 1: Start with Fencer A attacking with a simple Try to remember the bouts can be good for them, too. advance ; both know Fencer B is retreating once Some strong fencers have a hard time fencing lower- or and trying to hit in preparation. Fencer A must finish the intermediate- level people, because when someone is not attack in correct time. Attacker A should finish straight responding to the cues they’re throwing out, they don’t to either the head or arm. know what to do. Fencing a variety of people is good for Step 2: A expands the distance and the attack to people on every level. Even now I still need to fence a whole several advances before the lunge, B can do 1 to 3 variety of levels and the way I approach different levels at steps back, attempting to hit in preparation at the time a competition is garnered from this experience. The way of his choosing; the attacker must still finish in time. you utilize and learn from stronger fencers is a key area for improvement, but make sure you are maximizing those Step 3: A will open the attack up to anything experiences. between 1 and 8 steps. Defender (B) can either try to hit A in preparation, or pull the distance and cause A to Tim Morehouse was the silver medallist at the 2005 finish short, then riposte. National Championships and a member of the gold-medal If the pair is executing the drill correctly, in Step 1 team from Fencer’s Club at the 2004 National Champion- A should score most of the time and B should not be ships. He is proudest of having the chance to compete and very successful. The goal is to help the attacker finish represent the U.S. on the Men’s Saber National Team. He their attack on time, so this should be happening most is a program director for in New York of the time. City. Teach for America works in under-resourced schools to close the educational achievement gap in rural and inner Drill is courtesy of Yuryi Gelman, Morehouse’s coach at city schools. If you’d like to learn more you can go to www. the Fencers Club in New York City and coach of the 2004 teachforamerica.org. Feel free to contact Tim at more- Men’s Saber Olympic team. [email protected]

34 Spring 2006 · American Fencing TournamentRESULTS

Escrime d'Halloween · Regional Youth Circuit · Cyrano's Place, Rocky River, Ohio · October 29, 2005 Y-10 Mixed Foil Y-12 Mixed Saber 1 TROVATO, Gianfranco (THREE (RIVERS F.C.) 1 LEVINE, Seth (PENN STATE F.C.) 2 HOLTON, Kiera (ROCHESTER F.C.) 2 MCKIBBEN, Justin (FENC. ALLIANCE OF OHIO) 3T TEMES, Alec (CYRANO’S PLACE) 3T WOLFE, Kaylee (CYRANO’S PLACE) 3T WU, Benjamin (CYRANO’S PLACE) 3T SCHULTZ, Benjamin (ROGUE F.C.)

Y-10 Mixed Epee Y-14 Mixed Foil 1 TEMES, Alec (CYRANO’S PLACE) 1 ELKASSAS, Adam (DUBOIS F.C.) 2 WU, Benjamin (CYRANO’S PLACE) 2 GRILL, Josh (THREE (RIVERS F.C.) 3 CHODZIN, Devon (CYRANO’S PLACE) 3T JAGGER, Benjamin (THREE (RIVERS F.C.) 3T JAMESSON, Philip (ROCHESTER F.C.) Y-12 Mixed Foil 1 ELKASSAS, Adam (DUBOIS F.C.) Y-14 Mixed Epee 2 HOLTON, Maeve (ROCHESTER F.C.) 1 BUTTERFIELD, Liam (HOOKED ON FENCING) 3T TROVATO, Gianfranco (THREE (RIVERS F.C.) 2 ALBANO, Theodore (ALCAZAR) 3T FINDLEY, David (THREE (RIVERS F.C.) 3T ARLINGTON, Nicholas (HOOKED ON FENCING) 3T HARTUNG, Henry (TIGER F.C.) Y-12 Mixed Epee 1 TEMES, Alec (CYRANO’S PLACE) Y-14 Mixed Saber 2 PECCHIO, Danny (ALCAZAR) 1 MCKIBBEN, Justin (FENC. ALLIANCE OF OHIO) 3T KREUL, Erik (HOOKED ON FENCING) 2 LEVINE, Seth (PENN STATE F.C.) 3T BOWMAN, Joshua (TIGER F.C.) 3 MOORE, Gillian (FENC. ALLIANCE OF OHIO)

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Spring 2006 · American Fencing 35

CompetitionCLASSIFIEDS

THE PACIFIC COAST SECTION announces its 2005-2006 Junior fasj.com, call (856)424-5070, fax (856)424-5073, or email sectional circuit events: May 6-7 Inland Empire Junior Invi- [email protected]. tational, Upland, California, Cadet and Junior (all weapons) May 21 Beverly Hills Invitational, Culver City California, THE NEW ENGLAND DIVISION will host the 18th annual Pomme Cadet and Junior (sabre) Check out www.pcsfencing.com de Terre on June 24 and 25, 2006 at Brandeis University, for information and pre-registration. Waltham, MA. Events include all weapon individual opens, all weapon unclassified events and team events. This is a USA SPORTS would like to contact athletes and their parents very large, well-attended tournament. For registration and who are nationally or world ranked with relatives born in entry details, event times, and additional information please Mexico, up to the fourth generation, to invite them to The visit: www.neusfa.org. Other contacts: Jeff Altbush at National Junior Olympics in Mexico in April 2005. USA [email protected] or Linda Merritt at [email protected] Sports will cover expenses including airfare, hotels and meals. contact Arturo Mata, 956-778-2228 cell, 956-969- MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND May 27-28 2006 The Arizona Fencing 4716 home, 956-702-8358 fax, 916 East Washington, Foundation in cooperation with the Arizona Fencing Division Weslaco, TX, 78596. is pleased to announce that the Phoenix Cup 2006 is now on Askfred! Sign up now and come and join us for a fantastic THE 13TH ANNUAL MR. MA CUP will be held at Cinnaminson High weekend of fencing and fun! The Fencing Program will feature: School, 1197 Riverton Road, Cinnaminson, NJ, on Saturday, 3 weapon open, 3 weapon junior, Women’s Foil & Epee, Vet- June 3 and Sunday, June 4, 2006. Competitions will be held eran Mixed Epee The Entertainment will feature: Dinner and for all three weapons, men &women, with events in Y-10, Dance in the ballroom of the Marriott Hotel, Live Music, Buffet Y-12, and Y-14 on Saturday and Open events on Sunday. and Raffle. More info @ http://askfred.net/Events/moreInfo. The tournament is open to all USFA fencers. More than php?tournament_id=1608. Preregistration @ http://askfred. 500 fencers participated in 2005. In each event, trophies net/Events/Prereg/prereg.php?tournament_id=1608. For mail- will be awarded to the top three finishers and medals to in form, for non fencers who would like to participate to our fourth through eighth place. For registration information and very popular Cabaret Dinner/Dance, or with other questions, additional details about this tournament, please visit www. contact Pia Douglas, (480)288-7834, www.phoenixcup.org.

CoachingCLASSIFIEDS

WORK WANTED Italian Fencing Master, current coach of the sity, and build upon the facilities, traditions and history of University of Verona Fencing Team; graduate of National its fencing program. Applications will be held with in strict Academy of Fencing in Naples, seeking teaching position confidentiality and a mutually agreeable starting date will in scholastic or club fencing in the U.S. Contact Carmino be arranged that respects commitments to the selected Galanto , tel. 045-522084, address Via A. Scarlatti, 1/A, individual’s current coaching obligations. The selected 37131 - Verona, Italy. candidate will have a baccalaureate or advanced degree, a successful background in coaching fencing, preferably ECOLE NATIONALE DES MAITRES D’ARMES, professional fenc- at the collegiate level and competitive fencing experience, ing teacher at cercle d’escrime de Tours and Laval and preferably at the collegiate and/or professional level. Good experienced international competitor seeks position in oral and written communication skills and demonstrated U.S. For complete C.V. please contact Jean-Christophe leadership skills and the ability to manage team dynamics Guibert, telephone 02.99.30.18.49, 06.24.62.49.73, E-mail are required. To apply, visit http://jobs.princeton.edu and [email protected]. post to requisition 0500639. Please complete an online application and submit a cover letter and resume. Princ- COACH WANTED Princeton University is seeking a Head eton University is an equal opportunity affirmative action Coach to lead a championship caliber and values-based employer. Men’s and Women’s Fencing program. The position will be available on or about July 1, 2006. Princeton Fencing has SEEKING FOIL & SABER COACH. Coaching and personal fenc- had a history of success under its current coach (who has ing experience required in both weapons. Must speak announced his retirement effective the end of this season) English language, be self-motivated, responsible and as evidenced by 13 Ivy League titles, seven NCAA indi- enjoy working with fencers of all ages and levels. Send vidual champions and 40 All-Americas since 1983. This resume to include education, experience as a fencer, national search is seeking a highly motivated individual coaching experience, achievements and contact informa- who can capitalize on the athletic foundations already in tion to: The Fencing Academy of South Jersey, P.O. Box place, leverage the educational excellence of the Univer- 3637, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 or email [email protected].

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 37 CoachingCLASSIFIEDS

LAURALTON HALL-FAIRFIELD PREP FENCING CLUB is a par- ance, 4840 SW Western Ave. Suite #80, Beaverton, Or ent supported team competing at the High School level 97005 in Connecticut. This is our second season. Seeking an experienced fencer to coach the team. We have approxi- SEEKING SABER COACH. Must be energetic & personable for mately twelve members, and a practice space in Strat- an up and coming program. Please send resume to include ford, CT. We seek someone who can coach up to five picture, education, experience as a fencer, coaching expe- days a week within the window of 3:00 to 6:00PM each rience in which weapons, your students’ achievements, afternoon, from November 2005 to March 2006. Contact: marital status, contact information, telephone number and [email protected] 914.244.5679 address to: The 5 Star Fencing School, 16387 Groce Lane, Hempstead, Texas, 77445. INSTRUCTOR SOUGHT for the Vail/Eagle Valley, Colorado area to begin January. Please contact: Judy Mosser, 970-524- PART-TIME FOIL COACH WANTED. Must be energetic and able 8159. to give structured lessons to kids 7-14 year olds . Can- didate should have minimum 3 years competitive experi- ESTABLISHED, PRIVATE NJ CLUB seeks experienced foil coach ence or coaching experience. Send resume or inquires to for advanced fencers. Send resume to elfin-2@ lycos.com Peekskill Fencing Center at Sky Movement Studio, 925 or by mail to PO Box 696, Somerville, NJ 08876. South Street, Peekskill, NY 10566 or eekoloops@excite. com. PART-TIME SABER COACH WANTED. Minimum 5 years com- petitive or coaching experience required, must speak SEEKING COACH for New Jersey school’s fencing team. English language; must be self motivated and enjoy work- Position pays $1,600 a year. Please contact Eric Linger, ing with kids ages 7-18. Send resume and inquiries to [email protected], (908) 272-3883 (H), or (908) 510- [email protected] or mail to Oregon Fencing Alli- 2802.

Got a big competition coming up? Looking for a coach? Looking for a job? Send free classified listings to: Cindy Bent Findlay, [email protected], fax 2006 JUNIOR FENCING CAMP 614.340.7299. Make sure to include contact informa- tion; American Fencing will not act as an intermediary THE JUNIOR FENCING CAMP for advertisers and does not research backgrounds or AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA legitimacy of either coaching candidates or advertising IS SCHEDULED FOR: employers or clubs.

July 23 – August 5, 2006 Summer magazine deadlines for all classified ads is May 15, 2006. Summer issue will be published in mid OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL STAFF AIR-CONDITIONED DORMS AND PLENTIFUL MEALS INCLUDED June, 2006.

WEEK 1: EMPHASIZES TRAINING, SKILL DRILLS, LESSONS, LEARNING AND IMPROVING FENCING ABILITIES AND BOUTING

WEEK 2: EMPHASIZES TOURNAMENT COMPETITION AND MAXIMIZING COMPETITIVE SUCCESS, LESSONS, STRATEGY, TACTICS, BOUT STRUCTURE, AND TIME MANAGEMENT, COMPETITIVE BOUTING FORMATS.

YOU MAY ATTEND WEEK 1, WEEK 2, OR 2 CONSECUTIVE WEEKS. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND AN APPLICATION PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE AT: NEWS www.FencingCampAtPenn.com continued from page 8 OR CONTACT COACH DAVE MICAHNIK, FENCING CAMP DIRECTOR: the U.S. Men’s Epee Team of Isaac Erbele (D.C.F.C.), Ben 235 S. 33RD STREET Bratton (Westbrook), Ben Solomon (N.Y.A.C.) and Soren PHILADELPHIA, PA 19104-6322 PHONE: 215-898-6116 FAX: 215-573-6030 Thompson (N.Y.A.C.) placed fourth in a field of 21 teams. EMAIL: [email protected] Also in January, the U.S. Men’s Saber Team of Ivan Lee

AGES 14-17. MINIMUM ONE-YEAR COMPETITION EXPERIENCE REQUIRED (Westbrook), Tim Morehouse (F.C.) and (West- (TWO YEARS PREFERRED FOR WEEK #2) brook) place 5th in Tunisia and the U.S. Olympic Men’s Foil Team of Jed Dupree, Dan Kellner and Jon Tiomkin (also SIGN UP EARLY — SPACE IS LIMITED F.C.) took 6th in France.

38 Spring 2006 · American /REFEREES pened. Hopefully, some sanity will be marketing dollars more surgically. Try continued from page 17 restored and passivity will only be creating a referral alliance with the called in the most obvious and severe local software outlet or game shop. instances. Instead of advertising in the local into effect, I have been astounded to In the meantime, though, the fenc- paper, purchase a filtered mailing list see many internationally rated refs, ers will have to deal with the inconsis- which includes families within 5 miles including some who were invited to tent application of this rule. And, this of your school and who have made an Athens, misapply this rule. falls into the category of “fencing the online purchase in the past 6 months Let’s take a step back to think referee.” It is no different that adjust- (note: purchase “Snail Mail” lists, not about why the passivity rule was really ing to anything else a particular referee email lists). needed. The Hungary-Estonia match calls. When hunting for a good location was completely over the line. We had The smart fencers will adapt to for your school, consider how con- two fencers retreat to their respective the refs who are overly-aggressive in venient it is to families as well as the end lines and assume a completely calling passivity. They will do so not local Business Park where software passive stance. by arguing and knocking their heads companies are headquartered. Sick, disgusting, disgraceful. against the wall, but rather by fencing The key here is to remember that And, certainly against the spirit of the just ‘aggressively passive’ enough to at some point in their life, almost sport. prevent any referee from misapplying everyone thinks for a moment about Now, however, we have passivity this rule. what it would be like to know how to being called when fencers are setting “sword fight.” However, those who up a touch or going through what actually pursue the dream and those used to be a perfectly acceptable who manage to stick with it tend to feeling out process. Furthermore, the be a specific type of personality. And fencer in the lead should have every within that personality type, there right to lay back if he or she chooses. ClubTIPS continued from page 21 is a wide and diverse range. Who If anything, the onus should be on among us hasn’t noticed the dif- the trailing fencer to make things They like to “work the system” ference between the average saber happen. and figure out a way to conquer it. fencer and foil fencer? The objective of the passivity rule So use what you know about was to avoid the most obvious cases, With these attributes in mind, those people who have a fascina- as defined by the Hungary-Estonia you can select your location and tion with sharp, pointy things. And farce. The objective was not to call orient your marketing accordingly. focus on attracting these people this when fencers were making some Instead of using a costly “hand gre- who are far more likely to appreciate attempt to fence, albeit in a tentative nade” approach to advertisements your instruction. Let the rest of them or defensive manner. (ie. placing pamphlets on windshields get their fix through the next Zorro But, that is exactly what has hap- at the local mall), you can direct your movie.

Nellya Fencers This summer, train with some of the best sabre fencers in the world at 2006 Elite Sabre Nellya Fencers. Camp will be held in our brand new central Atlanta facility which includes 17 competition fencing strips. Amenities include Camp locker rooms with showers, strength and conditioning area and lounge with wi-fi computer access. Under the guidance of Maestro Arkady Burdan, fencers will focus on advanced competition skills, strategy and tactics, extensive bouting and physical conditioning. The program will include 2 daily training sessions with seminars on July conditioning methods and sports nutrition. Olympic 17-26 bronze medalist, Sada Jacobson, will teach strength and agility as well as footwork. A camp tournament is planned at Atlanta, the end of Session II. Camp alumni include U.S. Women’s Sabre Georgia team members. You may register for Session I, Session II or both.

For more information and applications go to www.nellyafencers.com or e-mail us at: [email protected]

Spring 2006 · American Fencing 39 AthleteSPOTLIGHT

LindseyKNAUER 16, Medford, New Jersey

TheSTATS

Event: Foil Birthdate: April 26, 1989 (Danbury, Connecticut) Hometown: Medford, New Jersey High School: Home Schooled; 2007 Club: Fencing Academy of South Jersey Coach: Andy Ma

How I started fencing: · Gold, Cadet Summer Nationals, 2005 Friends invited me to try a class with them, which · Bronze, Junior, JO’s 2005 I did reluctantly because I wasn’t familiar with the sport. I liked the class and practiced once a week Favorite fencing movie: for about a year before my first competition. After Pirates of the Caribbean (as much for Johnny Depp that first competition, I decided I wanted to train as for the fencing scenes). and seriously compete. Fencing Hero/inspiration: Hobbies: My sister, Beth, and my parents help to keep me I’ve played piano since I was five years old. Achieve- motivated; they’re a constant support to me wheth- ments: Earned Distinction and Merit Awards from er I win or lose. Ron Berkowsky, a friend from my the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of club, has inspired me to work hard. Music for piano. Favorite bout: Good luck rituals: My favorite bout was the one I won to secure my I always pray and chew Eclipse gum before I place on the Cadet Team in 2005. It was the decid- fence. ing competition, so I had a lot of pressure on me.

Top four results: Worst bout: · Bronze, Division I National Championships, The bout I lost to get into the top 16 at (the 2005 2005 Junior World Championships). I didn’t overcome · 6th, Cadet International, Jena, Germany, my nervousness and completely lost the bout psy- February, 2006 chologically.

40 Spring 2006 · American Fencing

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