Introducing Elsayed Emara, the esteemed head coach and Fortune Fencing Program Director. With a remarkable background in fencing and extensive coaching experience, Emara is a true leader in the sport. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Emara’s journey, exploring his achievements as a former National Egyptian Fencing Team member and his role as a respected coach.
Prepare to be inspired as we uncover Emara’s passion, insights, and the transformative impact he has on the athletes he guides. Discover Coach Emara’s commitment to excellence, impact on Fortune Fencing Club, and unwavering passion for the sport that inspires fencers of all levels.
Fortune Fencing: Can you share a bit about your journey in the world of fencing? How did you get started, and what led you to coaching?
Coach Emara: I started Fencing at 12 at the Alexandria Fencing Club in Alexandria, Egypt.
As a child, I developed a strong passion for sports. I began my athletic journey as a member of my middle school’s volleyball team until my PE instructor introduced me to fencing. When I first grasped a sword at the Fencing Club, I fell in love with the sport. The physical and mental challenge captivated me, and I became hooked on the Olympic sport of Fencing. As a child, I was fortunate enough to have exceptional coaches and skilled fencers surrounding me.
During beginner’s practice, coaches and experienced fencers were always on hand to guide, correct, and encourage those just starting out. After my first private lesson with my coach, I recall him expressing his confidence in me, saying I could become a champion someday.
When my coach told me that I had the potential to become a champion, I felt ecstatic. I couldn’t wait to share the news with my parents at home. I vividly remember telling them, “Coach said I’m going to be a champion!” This statement was a great source of motivation for me to practice harder and perform better during tournaments.
All my hard work paid off when I ranked 8th in the 1990 Junior World Championship.
Fortune Fencing: What are the key qualities that make a successful fencer? How do you instill these in your students at Fortune Fencing?
Coach Emara: At Fortune, we encourage our students to prioritize physical fitness and cultivate a strong self-belief through consistent practice. Our approach involves challenging them to push past their limits, building their confidence, and instilling the belief that they can surpass their opponents.
Fortune Fencing: Fencing requires a unique blend of physical skills and strategic thinking. Can you share your approach to balancing these aspects in your coaching?
Coach Emara: Being physically and mentally prepared during tournament season is crucial as a fencer. As a coach, we strive to balance implementing long-term and short-term practice plans for our students.
Physical training is usually emphasized over skills practice when fencers are not in tournament season. However, during tournament season, we shift our focus to footwork and skills training.
Fortune Fencing: Could you share a memorable moment or success story from your coaching career at Fortune Fencing?
Coach Emara: During my time as a coach at Fortune, I worked with a fencer who possessed impressive physical strength and fencing abilities. However, this fencer lacked confidence and would become nervous, ultimately freezing up during competitions. It’s important to note that no matter how physically or skillfully talented you are, nervousness and lack of confidence can greatly affect your performance during competitions.
I collaborated with him to boost his self-esteem and confidence and to apply his skills and actions during tournaments without fear or concern for the outcome. With dedication and perseverance, he managed to become one of the top 4 fencers in the country, eventually earning a spot on the US Cadet national team.
Fortune Fencing: Thank you, Coach Emara, for sharing your insights during the interview. Your expertise and dedication as the head coach of Fortune Fencing Club are truly remarkable. Exploring your journey and highlighting your impact on the fencing world has been a pleasure. Your passion for the sport and commitment to excellence inspires us all. We appreciate your valuable contributions and look forward to witnessing the continued success of you and the Fortune Fencing Club.
Whether you’re a budding fencer looking to learn the ropes or a seasoned veteran aiming to refine your technique, Coach Elsayed Emara and the Fortune Fencing Club offer a unique and enriching environment for all. Through his leadership and the supportive community at Fortune Fencing, members are not just learning a sport but embarking on a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and joy in fencing.