Fencing has a way of changing your perspective -- it's a process that incorporates physical skills with mental preparation and a good dose of strategy. Missouri State's Fencing Society is pleased that our Maitre, Nick Evangelista, teaching in the classical French style of fencing. We learn swordplay as it has been taught by some the great Masters of the art. We recommend you acquire a book (available locally at Barnes & Noble), The Art and Science of Fencing, by Nick Evangelista as a guide to the learning process. During an interview with one of the fencers in our Society (Joe Ancell), he explained his thoughts about swordplay on campus:

   Web Designer: Does it hurt much when you're hit with a Foil?

   JOE: Not at all. It's actually quite painless. Sometimes if someone hits you, it feels like someone is pushing into you with their index finger. It may leave a burse, but it doesn't hurt.

   WD: Before you came to fencing at Missouri State, had you ever thought about taking it   before?

JOE: Yes, it's actually been one of the things I've always wanted to do ever since I was a small child, but there was never  a place that I could find.

WD: Has fencing been beneficial to you?

JOE: Yes, it's been beneficial to me mentally and physically. Mentally it opens up my mind. Makes me think outside the lines sometimes. Sometimes even think a few steps ahead. My chess game has improved because of fencing. Physically it is doing wonders.

 I've lost a considerable amount of weight while fencing, and it has increased my flexibility and stamina.

Fencing at Craig Hall (Missouri State campus)WD: Do you have a goal with fencing?

 JOE: My goal in fencing is to learn not only from the master, but also from others as well as myself. To grow to the best of my abilities, and learn as much as I can. So that if I move somewhere that doesn't have fencing, I will be able to continue fencing and growing on my own.

 

 

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The Missouri State Fencing Society: 2000 - 2006