It’s not every eighth grader who can skillfully wield a sword. But for McKinley Classic Middle School student Jordan Marley-Weaver, nothing feels more natural. Ranked 55 in the country in foil fencing for her age group, Jordan also is on the National Points Team, a pool from which Olympians and Junior Olympians are selected. Foil fencers gain points in competitions by attacking their opponents with a strategic pointing, rather than slashing, movement, Jordan explains. “The target area is the torso, the front, the back and the lower part of the competition mask,” she adds.
She took up the sport at the age of 7, learning from coaches at Academy Fencing Club and Eagle Fencing Academy. “I really like swords in the medieval era, and I like how fencing involves competition, skill and athleticism,” Jordan says. “I also like fencing because there’s a lot of planning and strategy. And I love the physical component, the footwork and the adrenaline rush of a good bout.”
Three days a week, Jordan can be found practicing at the two clubs. “We start off doing footwork and bladework in front of a mirror to make sure our bodies are aligned properly, and we also do partner drills and guided fencing,” she explains. Outside of formal practices, Jordan also works hard to improve her footwork.
Strong legs are essential for a competitive fencer, she says. “It’s mainly legs and thighs. And you also have to have fast reflexes. Most people think of hand-eye coordination, but you also have to have good hand-foot coordination.”
As a member of the National Points team, which is organized by age group, Jordan competes in tournaments to raise her ranking. “I’ve participated in probably three tournaments,” she says. “My best was the St. Louis Super Youth Tournament, where I placed eighth, and the North American Circuit Cup in Memphis, where I placed in the top 30.”