Glen Cove High School student Angelica Verrelli 16, has been fencing for three years now, and fencing épee for a year. "Épee is the method where your whole body is on target and you have to hit your opponent with the tip of the épee," explains Angelica. The épee is the sword, she further explains to the uninitiated.

The young fencer has numerous wins to her credit and the medals to prove it. She recently won state championships in the 16 and under scholastic women's epee event and silver in the open event (ages 16 to 50). She also brought home a bronze medal from the most recent Empire State Games, and took second at senior sectional championships and fourth at junior sectional championships, which cover the entire northeast.

Angelica practices between five and seven times a week. She studies with Sorin Saitoc, a former Olympian from Romania at his fitness center and also practices at the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan. She usually competes every weekend and at least once a month participates in a North American Cup meet, which are held all over the country. In October, Angelica will be competing in Atlanta.

Unfortunately, Glen Cove High School does not have a fencing team or even a club, but Angelica is trying to start one up. If her perseverance in forming a club matches her perseverance with her sport, it's safe to say she won't be foiled in her attempts.