By: Anaiya Patel

Fencing is a competitive sport where two opponents use swords to score points by striking each other with speed and precision. Fencing at Innovation Academy has become a reflection of IA’s school spirit and is a part of the school’s athletic identity. As one of the few sports available due to county restrictions and the school’s STEM-focused curriculum, fencing offers students a unique outlet for physical activity and competition. With limited traditional sports options, students have gravitated toward fencing, strengthening the team and building a supportive community around it.

JoJo Peters (10), a member of the Fencing team, states, “Fencing is the only true, physical sports team we have at IA. That immediately separates us from any of the other activities here– as people who have played sports before know, being on an actual team brings experiences and emotions that aren’t recreated quite the same in other extracurriculars.”

Fencing is more than just a sport; it is a close-knit community where athletes grow together, support one another, and share a passion that goes beyond the blade. JoJo states, “Fencing at IA is all about forming a supportive community that come together to learn a new skill in a fun way. The people are our best asset.” Despite fencing being an individual sport, the IA fencing team fosters a strong sense of community, where athletes support one another while mastering the sport’s highly technical and strategic nature. JoJo states, “The fencing team is very fun and a good way to meet a lot of people, so I think you should join, preferably your freshman year. We’re fairly relaxed but be aware that you’ll be encouraged to compete in tournaments and improve your skills before joining.” Fencing is a dynamic and intellectually engaging sport that blends physical agility with strategic thinking, providing a unique and rewarding experience that challenges and empowers athletes at every level.

Fencing not only sharpens focus and technique, but also builds confidence and creates meaningful connections, giving students the chance to meet new people and form lasting friendships through shared challenges and teamwork.

JoJo states, “Fencing regularly forces me out of my comfort zone. I talk to new people, try to present myself less timidly, and regularly need to keep calm under pressure.”

The fencing team meets up every Thursday to practice, hone, and develop their skills. According to JoJo, “We have practices once a week after school. We warm-up with jogging and stretching, then we typically do drills in footwork and/or blade work.” These practices help prepare students for tournaments and allow them to play against others as fencing is a two-person sport. Fencing implements a kinetic learning style. Kinetic learning style involves physical activity, allowing students to progress their skills through hands-on learning. JoJo adds, “Then we’re split into groups called pools and fence each other. Some practices we play games or switch it up somehow.” All in all, IA fencing promotes discipline, strategic thinking, physical fitness, and mental resilience, encouraging athletes to refine their focus, elevate confidence, nurture perseverance, enhance decision-making under pressure, and cultivate respect both on and off the strip.