When did you first start fencing?

I first started fencing about four years ago. My little sister heard that my cousins were fencing and she was like, “Oh, I want to try that.” So we looked online and there were only a couple fencing places that we knew of and we just asked for beginner classes.

Why do you like fencing?

This might sound really bad but it’s fun to hit people. I enjoy faster sports where you need spurts of energy instead of endurance. Fencing is a good emotional outlet. I use whatever emotion I’m feeling and put it into my fencing. Also, for fencing competitions, I get to travel outside of Indiana and be exposed to other talented fencers.

How do you feel before a bout?

Before a bout usually pools in a competition, I get really nervous. I can feel my heart beating and then after the first one, I get into the groove and it’s fine.

Do you see yourself fencing for a long time?

I do see myself fencing in college but then I would like to make it to the Junior Olympics.

Who is your fencing idol?

Mariel Zagunis, she was the first fencer in the history of the sport to hold more than two world-champion titles in one season. She has shown me that you can accomplish anything if you keep at it. She started fencing sabre at a young age and has continued ever since. Her love and passion for fencing has gotten her to the Olympics three times.

What is your favorite thing about fencing?

I think it’s actually going to competitions and meeting new people because the competitors are from different states and countries. Just making friends and improving my fencing technique against others who can make me better is awesome.

Is it hard to see out of your mask?

Actually surprisingly its not hard to see. They actually make masks where theres like a visor cut out so its just like glass or some kind of plastic.

What is it like being in a sport that is mainly male-dominated?

It is a male-dominated sport but that doesn’t discourage me. There may be a couple tournaments that are mixed open but when fencing at a national level, the events are separate women and men.