The European Fencing Confederation (EFC) is thrilled to announce a dynamic and action-packed season that promises to showcase the incredible talent and competitive spirit of our fencers.
The previous Olympic cycle saw European athletes achieving remarkable success at the Paris Olympics. Their dedication and skill set a high standard for excellence, and you can read more about their impressive performances here (News - Paris Olympics Fencing Highlights).
As we look ahead to the upcoming season, it’s important to take inspiration from those who have already achieved greatness. Filippo Macchi, silver medalist in both the individual and team foil events at the Paris Olympics, shared his personal journey and valuable insights for young fencers aspiring to reach the top.
On the emotional impact of reaching the podium: Macchi described the bittersweet feeling of stepping onto the podium after such an intense competition. “Honestly, I couldn’t process it right away,” he admitted. “When you’ve worked so hard for a goal, missing out on gold by such a small margin (14-15 against Cheung Ka Long) is tough. But in the days that followed, I realized that it wasn’t just about the medal—it was about the journey, the work, and the dedication that brought me there.”
The challenges of preparation: Macchi spoke openly about the many challenges along the way. “There are so many struggles. We do this sport as a job, and there are days when you don’t feel like going to the gym or training,” he shared. “But what I always tell myself is that I need to get a little bit better every day. I have to start and end each day as a better version of myself—not just as an athlete, but also as a person.”
A message to young fencers: Macchi’s advice to aspiring fencers is direct and powerful: “To younger athletes, I say what I told myself: believe in your dreams and pursue them. There is nothing more important than your dreams. And if you work hard every day, with passion and dedication, those dreams will eventually turn into goals.” His words serve as a strong reminder that persistence and effort, even on the hardest days, are key to reaching the highest levels of success.
Macchi’s journey is a powerful example of dedication and resilience, a story that will undoubtedly inspire young athletes as they prepare for the future.
Let’s carry that inspiration into the first major highlight of the upcoming season: the U14 European Circuit, which will take place in Napoca, Romania this weekend. This event, focused on foil fencing, is a crucial platform for young fencers to showcase their talent and gain valuable experience.
The EFC is committed to nurturing young talent and maintaining the high standards of European fencing. The upcoming season promises a series of exhilarating events, offering both seasoned fencers and promising newcomers a chance to shine.
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