by: Sophia Rios
Anthony Martin, coach and sponsor of the North Springs fencing club, gave shout outs to give to his students and supporters as they prepare for the fencing home tournament on November 19th in the North Springs gymnasium and auxiliary gym. This follows the team’s last tournament on October 29th, held at Johns Creek, which went extremely well.
Martin stated, “Our team captain Noah Shafritz, placed tenth in the men’s event. In the women’s event, Auprell Edwards finished second and Aurora Seesink finished tweflth. Overall it was the stiffest competition we’ve seen this season, and everyone performed very well”.
With the tournament being so tough, the Spartan fencers did exceedingly well, including new fencers who had only started this year. Coach Martin gave special congratulations to four of his students: Noah Shafritz for supporting everyone as an incredible team captain who goes above and beyond at every practice and competition, Ashtyn Shannon for showing amazing improvements since last season and keeping team spirit strong and fun at practice, Auprell Edwards for continuously outstanding performance at competitions and exceptional sportsmanship, and Aurora Seesink for showing both a positive attitude and fearless performance as a freshman at competitions.
Seesink said, “For me, fencing is a sport that’s not really talked about much in schools. Our team happens to be kind of small — there are twelve consistently — so there’s a sense of community. Our coach is very supportive.”
Seesink has fenced for about six months, but some students have only done it for a month. “Liam and everyone have been doing really well, even with very little experience. The thing I like about the sport is there’s a lot of techniques and things to learn, but it makes the bouts very thrilling. My heart starts beating really fast anytime I’m in a competition or tournament. You can see your hard work pay off.”
She also hopes to reach some personal goals at the home tournament. “My hope personally is to make top 16. I’m hoping we can have else in the top three. No matter what happens, everyone has worked really hard. “
Seesink emphasizes that nothing should deter anyone who wants to join the team. “Don’t be intimidated by how good other people are. You’ll get there. It takes a lot of skill. Also, no matter how how much it costs, don’t be turned off, because the school will support it.”
To stay in the loop about past or upcoming competitions and tournaments, supporters can follow the team’s Instagram at @northspringsfencing on Instagram. Here the team posts updates and photos of the fencers in action, as well as appreciation for each other while having light hearted fun.
Be sure to show your support the of the team’s, members and coach during practices, tournaments, and competitions. Go fencing Spartans!
