What an incredible journey fencing has been this year, from friendly bouts to competitive events fencing has been massively enjoying not just on the piste but in general.

Our weekly lessons have helped us grow in ways unimaginable, and our friendships have expanded to new levels. And as our club has expanded, so has the fencing family at Burnside High School. Every member has found their own version of success, whether that be overcoming a new parry, defeating a friend, or even placing in a competition.

This year we've managed to have a number of inter-club competitions as well as a handful of national competitions (with the Burnside team placing 4th in Auckland!!!!), with the Burnside fencers showing their school spirit by turning up in great numbers to support and cheer one another in both individual and team bouts. Sheldon, our amazing coach, provides one-on-one feedback and has been a huge part of the club's success.

Each fencer has shown their skill in a number of ways throughout the year. With a social and lively environment, fencing has been a true highlight of the year for everyone involved. And we all can't wait to see how next year will go for fencing.

Many thanks from the Burnside High School fencing family.

Zeyad Elmallah