It is a sword-fighting sport dating back to the 15th century when it was often used to settle disputes.
And while that can still be true for us when choosing where to eat after training, nowadays our members come to our club for a range of other reasons.
‘I was looking to try something new in my final year.’
Whether you are just starting at Ulster University or have been here for a few years, the option of joining a sport club or society should always be explored.
To become a student can be rather daunting as it sets you up in often a new place doing a new course of study surrounded by people you have yet to meet, clubs like Fencing help to lessen the stress, and provide an outlet for expression and exploration.
Many of our members were searching for this outlet between their busy lectures and coursework, an opportunity to step away from their desk and step into a fencing kit.
‘The fact that we don’t have to pay for equipment is a relief.’
Along with the chance to destress, the club offers full access to equipment and clothing that would otherwise be very expensive to buy individually and difficult to maintain.
This is often what draws students to clubs and societies, the chance to try something they may have not had access to before, and in the case of fencing, which is very niche, this is common.
‘Joining a club has made my Ulster experience that much more enjoyable.’
Even though fencing itself is an individual sport, we pride ourselves on the level of teamwork shown during training and at competitions.
A club can give students the chance learn a new skill and by working with others, they can help that skill flourish. The club is never quiet after training with members encouraging and giving each other helpful feedback.
This support within the club and motivation to improve oneself can greatly help a student’s self-confidence and can create a sense of belonging and community within.
Fencing Club
‘These years provide opportunities to get involved in many different groups, form lifelong friendships and develop new skills.’
This confidence is further expressed through the social aspect of clubs and societies. There is no better way to make new friends and bonds for life than through a common interest that you all share a passion for.
In my own experience, the fencing club has helped me come out of my shell and meet people I want to stay in contact with even after university, often my fondest memories are travelling to or from training with my teammates and being glad they came into my life.
The high social aspect of fencing continues outside of training, with a dinner at a restaurant in Coleraine as a celebration and a chance to wind down with a meal. This allows our members to have a constant way to get out of their room and spend time with people.
‘I love pushing myself to do my best in competitions.’
Clubs and societies will often have events as something to work towards and aim for.
In terms of fencing, we have monthly competitions that allow us to travel within Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This gives us a chance to show what we’ve learned and have fun fencing with other students and community members. Opportunities like this can help members of the club stay motivated and have something to look forward to.
There is also an annual competition called the Intervarsities, this involves multiple universities coming together to compete and build connections.
The atmosphere is thrilling to be in and the bonds we have built with other universities through it are long lasting. Often Ulster University is known for bringing the party, when all the universities go out for dinner and drinks so prepare for a lot of time on the dance floor.
‘Everyone was really nice and informative on the open day.’
If this sounds appealing to you, we would love to have you come along and experience it for yourself. The best way to do this is at the start of the semester when you can come along to two weeks' worth of training sessions without having to pay for a sports club membership.
The price of membership at any of the sports clubs is £70 for the year. Or alternatively pay our table a visit at the next Fresher’s Fayre and we’d love to talk your ear off about the club.
‘My time with the fencing club has and always will be, a highlight of my time at university.’
Ulster University fencing club is spread across the Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry campuses, both of which are wonderfully run clubs with friendly coaches and members. I am part of the Coleraine Fencing club and would love to see you call in to try it out and take a chance on joining a club.
If you have any questions or are interested in joining, then please do not hesitate to get in touch cmcburney7274@gmail.com
A special thanks to the Coleraine Fencing club who provided their voices and experiences to make this article a special piece of writing for us all.
All photography credited to Raw Photography NI.
Article written by current student, Theo McBurney.
All views expressed are the student's own and are not representative of Ulster University.