Recently, I stumbled upon a story about Jacqueline Du Pre that struck a chord deep within me. It encapsulated everything I aspire to instill in my fencers—a passion for the sport that transcends mere competition and embraces the sheer joy of participation.

Du Pre was undeniably one of the most accomplished cellists in the world, driven by a profound love for music that ignited her passion from a young age. Her relentless dedication led her to countless hours of practice, each session filled with pure enjoyment and fulfillment. 

At age 6, Jacqueline attended her first music competition. At one point, a custodian saw her running down the corridor, brimming with excitement, smiling from ear to ear, her cello held high above her head. He remarked, “I see here runs a child who just performed well in the competition!” Jacqueline’s response was nothing short of captivating: “Oh, no, Sir!  I’m just about to!” 

At its core, Jacqueline’s story is about embracing enjoyment—the deep passion and joy that infuse every aspect of the performance. It’s this fervor that drives us forward, propelling us through the inevitable setbacks and failures with unwavering resilience.

And it all starts with something as simple as a smile.

Before stepping onto the competition floor, during each bout and every touch, and even after the final handshake with opponents, the power of a smile cannot be underestimated. It’s a transformative force, infusing each encounter with a sense of joy and passion.

Imagine each bout as a puzzle waiting to be solved. The goal isn’t merely victory but the sheer pleasure of outsmarting your opponent, of unraveling the intricacies of this captivating game. Whether you emerge triumphant or face defeat, there’s value in every outcome—an insight gained, a lesson learned.

But perhaps the greatest tragedy is missing out on the opportunity to savor the bout and glean those invaluable insights when we allow ourselves to succumb to frustration or disappointment. By embracing a smile, by finding joy in the act of competing, we set ourselves up for success, regardless of the final score.

So, as you prepare to step onto the strip, channel the spirit of Jacqueline Du Pre and harness the power of a smile. Let it be your constant companion, your ally in the pursuit of excellence. Smile when you put your fencing mask on, and smile when you take it off. For in the end, it’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about wholeheartedly participating in something you love. And that is the truest victory of all.