By Christopher DeMuth
A new fencing club has taken formed at New Canaan High School, led by junior Tyler Bliel. An experienced fencer with six years of serious training, Bliel hopes to bring his passion for the sport to fellow students and grow the school’s fencing community.
The club has already attracted seven members, forming both foil and sabre squads. The group includes students ranging from freshmen to juniors. “The response has been great so far,” Bliel said. “We’ve surpassed my initial expectations, and it’s exciting to see students of different ages coming together.”
While the team is not yet competing, Bliel has plans for the future. “We’d like to sign up for competitions down the line,” he explained. “For now, we’re focused on establishing ourselves and building a strong foundation within the community.”
The club practices at the Tim Morehouse Fencing Club in Port Chester, a space well-suited to honing their skills. Bliel’s favorite aspects of fencing—its fast pace, showmanship, and high-pressure situations—make the sport a thrilling experience. “I especially enjoy infighting and executing flashy moves like the jump flick,” he shared.
Bliel’s passion for fencing started years before he took up the sport seriously. Over time, his dedication and training have honed his skills and fueled his enthusiasm to share fencing with others. By founding the club, he hopes to provide students with a chance to experience the unique blend of strategy, athleticism, and artistry that fencing offers.
One of the challenges of starting a new club is gaining traction and building a strong membership base. Bliel approached the task with determination and a clear vision. By reaching out to peers and presenting fencing as both an engaging sport and a unique opportunity, he successfully attracted a committed group of students. “It’s been rewarding to see the interest grow,” he said. “We’re still a small team, but there’s a lot of enthusiasm and potential.”
The club’s practice sessions at the Tim Morehouse Fencing Club are critical for skill development. Members are learning the fundamentals of foil and sabre while improving their technique and coordination.
Looking ahead, Bliel envisions the club becoming a competitive force. He is laying the groundwork for future success by fostering camaraderie, instilling discipline, and encouraging a love for the sport. “Fencing is not just about individual performance; it’s also about teamwork and mutual support,” he explained. “I’m confident that with time and effort, we’ll be ready to compete and represent our school.”
The unique aspects of fencing have captivated the club’s members. Unlike more common sports, fencing combines mental and physical challenges, requiring quick thinking, precision, and adaptability. For Bliel, these elements make the sport especially rewarding. “It’s not just about physical ability,” he noted. “You have to outthink your opponent and stay composed under pressure.”
As the club grows, Bliel plans to continue spreading awareness about fencing at New Canaan High School. For now, the club’s focus remains on building skills, strengthening bonds among members, and preparing for the future. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, the New Canaan High School fencing club is off to a promising start.
