Fencing Equals Friendship

There are several fencing clubs in Houston, each with their strengths and weaknesses. One particular strength that they all seem to have is that they all have really good kids that fence at each. My wife and I have always been impressed with how these young fencers seem to have great composure, maturity and sportsmanship. Another strength that we have observed over the past few years is the friendships that develop even in the face of competition. A good example of this is women’s foil. In Houston there are not many highly competitive women’s foil fencers in the Y14, cadet and junior age groups and as such these young ladies are constantly fencing each other in the local tournaments and sometimes at the national level. In spite of the age differences, skill level and club affiliation, they have become good friends.

            This past March at the NAC tournament in Atlanta, Sarah Followill (Salle Mauro), Karalina Collins (Alliance) and Hannah Jordan (Bayou City) all competed in the Division II and III events. It was interesting to watch these three during the tournament. Not only did they help each other warm-up, but were all keeping up with the progress of the other two during pools and in the DE’s. When one would get eliminated, she would simply go cheer the others on. It was great to see these young people in a highly competitive sport offer support to each other. As a parent, to see this type of behavior, only solidifies my notion that my daughter picked the right sport to compete in. Ladies, keep up the good work. You make us proud.