Meet Weston fencer Josh Sima
WESTON, Mass. — Inspired by a friend who commented on how much fun fencing is, Josh Sima (18) began training in the sport at age 11. He started with Jovanovic Fencing before moving to Star Fencing Academy, where he continues to train today.
Prior to last year, Josh and his friend, Daniel Gao, approached Athletic Director Mike McGrath to advocate for the creation of a fencing team at Weston High School (WHS). AD McGrath eagerly agreed, and when WHS introduced fencing as a varsity sport last year, Josh and Daniel led the team as co-captains.
With his height and reach, Josh has a natural advantage, complementing it with agility and the ability to quickly access his opponents鈥� styles in order to adjust his strategy. His skill played a key role in the WHS Boys Fencing team鈥檚 undefeated regular season and their State Championship title.
Next fall, Josh will compete for John Hopkins University D3 Fencing team. We wish him the best of luck!
Congrats, Josh!
Interview with Josh:
What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?
Josh Sima: To make NCAAs and to reach my greatest potential as a fencer.
What do you love about your sport?
Sima: The intensity and the strategy involved. You could be the fastest, tallest, or strongest fencer on the planet, but you would have no way to score a touch on someone who has a better strategy/plan coming into the match.
What was the best advice you were ever given?
Sima: To practice like I am fencing in a competition, and to fence at a competition like I am practicing. This advice has helped alleviate my nerves during competition.
How do you prepare yourself mentally or physically for competition?
Sima: I get a good night鈥檚 sleep, eat a healthy breakfast (with no fried foods), and avoid checking who my opponent is the night before to keep a clear mind.
What is your biggest challenge in your sport, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
Sima: My nerves at tournaments and thinking about winning and losing. My parents, coaches, and clubmates always say to take it one touch at a time and to not focus on winning or losing. I just recently have been able to fully embrace this, and it has really helped when I am competing.
What has being a member of a team taught you?
Sima: Your team is always there to support you, and it鈥檚 about learning how to work and get better together as athletes and people. Being part of a team teaches valuable life skills, like cooperation, empathy, and putting others before yourself.
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