Touches are scored electronically. Foil, epee, and sabre are the three weapons of choice in sport. Clever tactics and strategies are an important part of the game. Fencing is a lot more than the swash-buckling action you might recall from any particular old time movie that you've seen. It's more "Star Wars" than "Errol Flynn."

Jeff Deitel, once again, is the consummate Daler fencer. Ms. Spinella, acts as chaperone and accompanies him to the various meets. "Jeff is an independent fencer," she commented. "He trains at a local fencing club." Before he goes to the events, Jeff runs with his Winter Track team as part of his preparation. "He is disciplined, hard working and an all around good kid," cited Ms. Spinella. As a junior, Jeff has been involved in the sport for the past three years. His coach is Bruce Gillman. On the academic scene, Jeff enjoys history and math classes. He is a member of the Varsity Leaders Club and volunteers for the Salvation Army. He looks forward to attending college after his high school career ends. Jeff has lettered in Cross Country as well as Winter and Spring Track. His confidence is evident when performing on a six-feet-by-40-feet strip during a match. "Hard work and a competitive attitude," said Jeff, are the only way to compete at this level. Jeff is a "foil fencer." The foil has a flexible rectangular blade about 35 inches in length and weighs less than a pound. Points are scored with the tip of the blade and must land within the torso. The uniform includes a metallic vest (called a lame) that covers the valid target area. The main object is to score 15 points (in direct elimination play) on your opponent before he scores that number on you. Matches consist of three three-minute periods.

Don't expect to see anyone swinging from a chandelier or leaping off a balcony. The matches are intense and thrilling to watch. There is little room for error. When asked what he works on to try to improve in the sport, Jeff deadpanned "accuracy." He's a Daler with a direct approach in this exciting sport.

Note: Information concerning Fencing was obtained from the US Fencing website, online at www.usfencing.org.