European Fencing Confederation Clinic in Cyprus Celebrating Diversity and Excellence

The European Fencing Confederation (EFC) recently concluded a highly successful clinic in Cyprus, which brought together participants from nine different countries. Hosted by the CyprusFencing Federation (CFF), the event was a true celebration of unity through diversity, combining exceptional hospitality with a rich exchange of knowledge and culture.

French Expertise and Cypriot Hospitality

The clinic benefited greatly from the expertise  of two esteemed French coaches:

• Hervé Faget, national coach of the French women’s épée team, who guided his team to two medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

• Robin Rieu, coach of the French U17 men’s team.

The participation of these renowned experts, supported by the French Fencing Federation, significantly enriched the clinic. EFC President Pascal Tesch extended his heartfelt thanks to the Cyprus Fencing Federation, not only for organizing and hosting the event but also for their outstanding hospitality. He noted that all participants had emphasized the warmth and welcoming atmosphere during individual conversations, which greatly contributed to the overall success of the clinic.

Comprehensive Training and Cultural Exchange

The program covered both individual and group teaching methodologies in theory and practice, fostering extensive interaction between participants and the master coaches. This approach not only improved technical skills but also promoted a deeper understanding of different approaches across Europe.

An ongoing success story

This clinic marked a continuation of the EFC's Solidarity Program, an initiative designed to strengthen the ties between European fencing federations. The program promotes technical and cultural exchange, fostering the development of fencing skills in emerging federations with the support of the “big nations”. Through this initiative, the EFC has been able to offer invaluable resources and support to enhance the development of the sport across the confederation.

Beyond the Piste: Strengthening Bonds

Leaving the pistes for the streets of Nicosia , the participants enjoyed a guided tour of the city, offering a journey through the history of Cyprus.  deepened their connection beyond the fencing arena. This cultural experience fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among attendees, completing the overall impact of the clinic.

Closing Ceremony at the Cyprus National Olympic Committee

The clinic concluded with a cozy closing ceremony at the Cyprus National Olympic Committee headquarters, where EFC President Pascal Tesch and CFF President Constantinos Taliotis assisted the camp’s Master coaches in presenting participation certificates. The event highlighted the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that defined the entire clinic.

Key Statements:

 - Constantinos Taliotis, President of the CFF, highlighted the beauty and uniqueness of fencing, expressing satisfaction with the positive feedback from participants and outlining his expectations for the future for individual self reflection which can lead to self-knowledge and self- improvement.

- Yiotis Ioannides, Secretary General of the Cyprus National Olympic Committee, welcomed the participants and head coaches in the Olympic Committee building, expressing his pleasure at the positive activity from the Cypriote Fencing Federation.

- EFC President Pascal Tesch emphasized the strength found in European diversity and the crucial role of coaches in shaping fencing's future, stressing the importance of transmitting values alongside technical skills. He expressed high hopes for the positive outcome of exchanges between people from various backgrounds and cultures, defining this diversity as the true treasure of European strengths.

- Maître Hervé Faget noted the mutual learning experience, emphasizing the importance of empathy in coaching. He underlined that not only did he teach the participants, but he also learned from them, complementing the president's talk about values.

- Clea Papaellina, Dean of the National Olympic Academy of Cyprus, appreciated the focus on Olympic values within the fencing community, noting that her institute is dedicated to teaching these very values. Mrs Papaellina highlighted the successful collaboration of the EFC with the CFF which made the success of the camp possible.

A Clear Statement

 Embracing the claim that "Fencing is for fencers," Presidents Tesch and Taliotis supported the head coaches Faget and Rieu hand over the certificates. This arrangement clearly displayed that the officials are at the service of the fencers.

This clinic not only enhanced technical skills but also reinforced the values of unity, diversity, and mutual respect that are central to the European fencing community. It stands as a testament to the sport's ability to bring people together and foster excellence both on and off the piste.