2008 Woodie Awards
Fencing Club stabs back into action
Jade Enoch
Issue date: 9/14/07 Section: In the Spotlight
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Freshman Sarah Simmonds was attracted to the group because of the unique quality of the sport.
"I just like the thought of fencing because it's sort of a thing you see in the movies that most people never get to participate in," said Simmonds. "It's so cool; it's sort of medieval."
While complaints of sore calves are often voiced, nothing can keep the most determined from sticking with it.
The looks in the eyes of the new members as they carefully test the intricate footwork and movements stand as testament to this.
"Right now we're just training, gliding along without swords, but I'm looking forward to a time when I can," said Simmonds.
The ancient sport does require a high level of physical commitment from its participants.
"You really need to be in shape to perform well. With all the footwork it's like two hours of Pilates," said Richard. "A five minute bout is usually more work than a 30 minute workout with all the constant changes of direction and quick movement."
Fencing is also a mental game, moving beyond the physical so that players must anticipate their opponent's next move as in a fast paced game of chess.
"At the professional level, you are usually thinking about eight or nine moves ahead of your opponent," said Richard.
But what of injuries? Is fencing a dangerous sport?
"There is some amount of bruising that goes along with it, but it's just so fast paced and fun that you really don't remember when you got hurt.
A bruise becomes a sort of badge of honor, 'Hey, cool, I wonder when I got that?''"
Richard encourages anyone who may be a bit nervous to try their hand at the art of swordplay to simply come and watch before they try.
The Fencing Club, which is still in need of a permanent home, meets on Monday and Thursday nights at 5 p.m. in Goodson Student Union.
"I just like the thought of fencing because it's sort of a thing you see in the movies that most people never get to participate in," said Simmonds. "It's so cool; it's sort of medieval."
While complaints of sore calves are often voiced, nothing can keep the most determined from sticking with it.
The looks in the eyes of the new members as they carefully test the intricate footwork and movements stand as testament to this.
"Right now we're just training, gliding along without swords, but I'm looking forward to a time when I can," said Simmonds.
The ancient sport does require a high level of physical commitment from its participants.
"You really need to be in shape to perform well. With all the footwork it's like two hours of Pilates," said Richard. "A five minute bout is usually more work than a 30 minute workout with all the constant changes of direction and quick movement."
Fencing is also a mental game, moving beyond the physical so that players must anticipate their opponent's next move as in a fast paced game of chess.
"At the professional level, you are usually thinking about eight or nine moves ahead of your opponent," said Richard.
But what of injuries? Is fencing a dangerous sport?
"There is some amount of bruising that goes along with it, but it's just so fast paced and fun that you really don't remember when you got hurt.
A bruise becomes a sort of badge of honor, 'Hey, cool, I wonder when I got that?''"
Richard encourages anyone who may be a bit nervous to try their hand at the art of swordplay to simply come and watch before they try.
The Fencing Club, which is still in need of a permanent home, meets on Monday and Thursday nights at 5 p.m. in Goodson Student Union.
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