In fencing, we talk a lot about touches, ratings, and results. We talk about footwork and blade work and tactics. We talk about mental resilience and about inner discipline. What we don't talk about nearly enough is reputation — and yet, reputation is one of the most...
In the past, during December, I used to think about a post I'd publish on New Year's Eve or January 1st. While being quite good posts, mostly these were New Year Resolutions posts - the standard fare about goals, commitments, transformation. But knowing my own habits,...
I recently finished reading Andre Agassi's autobiography "Open" and I can't stop thinking about it. To tell the truth, I bought this book a few years ago, four or five (or maybe even six-seven, as kids would joke). Somehow I postponed reading it expecting to find a...
Every fencer hits the moment in their career when almost everything they do feels wrong. New actions as well as old and trusted actions. Nothing feels quite right. Some fencers will keep trying, grinding through the frustration. Others will want to move on to...
Recently I read an article by Italian fencing master Giancarlo Toran about the importance of the salute in fencing. His reflections on tradition, respect, and what the salute reveals about character deeply resonated with me. I've borrowed some of his ideas here and...
January 1st arrives with familiar declarations: "This is my year!" "I'm finally going to get serious about training!" "I'm more motivated than ever!" The young fencer posts inspirational quotes on social media, creates detailed training schedules, and attacks their...
We've all been there when we suddenly hit a plateau. That frustrating moment when progress seems to halt. When weeks of training yield no tangible improvements. When the rating that seemed just within reach remains stubbornly elusive for the entire season. When the...
In any sport, and definitely in fencing, no athlete stands alone. Behind every bout, lost or failed, behind any competition, successful or not so much, behind every action, beautifully and timely executed or clumsy, lies a community of people whose support, guidance,...
As I write this holiday gift guide for fencers, I can't help but think about the past eleven years of my life as a fencing parent. Four children, countless tournaments, early morning or late night practices, and a journey that has taken us from those first wobbly...
Starting fencing as an adult can be both intimidating and also immensely rewarding. In the last few years, we’ve seen a lot of adult fencers come into our club and really make the sport their own. Oftentimes they come in just looking for something physical and...
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