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I like to think of fencing as a conversation.

2
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When you step on to that fencing piece,

3
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then you can have an entire conversation with someone without saying one word.

4
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The type of non-verbal communication that you have in fencing

5
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is one of the founding techniques that you need to have.

6
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7
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I'm the first Virginian female to

8
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ever compete in the Junior Olympics in all three weapons.

9
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I have been the state points champion for the past 2 consecutive years and

10
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I'm the current state champion for foil and epee

11
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which is the first time that's happened in the past 17 years.

12
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13
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Because my mom home schooled me,

14
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I never had that team atmosphere in fencing.

15
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So, for the first time, I recently competed with a team.

16
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To be there and to turn around

17
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and see people from the University of Virginia

18
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rooting for me

19
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was a really great experience

20
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that I'm really glad I have here.

21
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Having fencing is just such a

22
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integrated part of my life now

23
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that I can't imagine it without it.

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