Fencers arrived at Northern Bedford County High School on Wednesday, February 5th for their first away competition of the season. The first fencers were announced and stepped up to the fencing strip to the tune of “Back in Black” by AC/DC, with their teammates looking on. The camaraderie and team spirit was in the air as fencers competed for the match title.
The second match of the year was successful with the Grier Foxes taking home the win. The score was a close one, ending with the Foxes at 7 wins and the Panthers at 6, showing the Foxes’ endurance and commitment. The Foxes are now 1-1 as they move into the height of winter sports. Winners of the night included Josie Filan (‘26), Katie Payne (‘25), Kylie Willier (‘25), An Truong (‘28), Lucy Buchanan (‘26), Jojo Coker (‘26), and Kaylie McCabe (‘30).
The fencers had an audience at Northern Bedford, including a group of elementary students interested in the sport. The Grier girls did not disappoint as usual and entertained their young fans with a close but triumphant comeback after their loss last week. I spoke to some athletes– still high off their wins–after the match.
Katie Payne, the senior armorer who takes care of the team equipment spoke to the team’s dedication. “The match was really great,” Payne said. “I think we all tried really hard and I’m really proud of us for winning!” Cherry Jinxuan Li, ‘27, echoed Payne’s sentiments, saying “They all did a good job!”
The pride that Payne and Li felt was definitely evident in other members of the team, including Jose Filan, ‘26, who said, “I dominated and then I destroyed.” Jojo Coker, ‘26, added her own feelings about the tournament, saying, “It was epic!”
As the Foxes continue to practice, they can look forward to their next home match on Wednesday, February 12th in the gymnasium. Grier families and friends are welcome and encouraged to come cheer them on!
