BHHS Students Fence Around the World

While fencing is not an official Bloomfield Hills High School team sport, several BHHS students are making their mark in the sport! Two grade 12 students, Adeline Senic and Gwydion Perry, both coached by A-rated fencer Anatolie Senic, of Renaissance Fencing Club, have signed letters of intent to compete at the collegiate level. Luao Yang (grade 11), also coached by Senic, recently earned the title of 2025 Cadet Men’s Individual Foil World Champion in Wuxi, China! All three of these fencers have earned multiple medals and accolades from all over the world.

Fencing is a competitive battle between two opponents, largely based on striking the opponent with a blunt foil, épée, or sabre weapon while simultaneously avoiding being hit. Fencing is a modern Olympic sport and despite having historical roots in swordsmanship, there are no sharp swords, making fencing one of the safest sports. While being athletic is important, fencing is known for its mental toughness. Strategy, attention, observation, and patience are keys to success. Renaissance Fencing Club manager, three-time Olympian and BHS parent, Ann Marsh-Senic, shared, “We think fencing is a really fun sport, and we just want to see the growth of fencing, so we have classes and lessons for every age group.”

Gwydion Perry (grade 12) will be attending Wayne State University to fence Division II and I. Reflecting on the commitment required for high-level competition, Perry shared, “I practice for 2 hours every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, sometimes on Saturdays. I compete every other weekend, sometimes two weekends in a row, depending on the season. Fencing has helped me with my self-awareness and my ability to think about what I am doing. I also have learned the importance of not quitting, dropping everything, and getting up and trying again.” 

Fencer Adeline Senic was recruited by the University of Notre Dame, last year's NCAA fencing champions, to fence for the Fighting Irish. Before starting college at Notre Dame, Senic will take a gap year to compete all over the world. Senic’s mother, Ann Marsh-Senic, commented that this path will further enhance Senic’s skills and confidence as a fencer at the next level.

Yang was the first USA male team member to win the gold since 2021. Yang gave a shout out to BHS after the big win, “...to my teachers and counselor at Bloomfield Hills High School, who have been so pivotal to me in my school success while traveling.” Bloomfield Hills Schools proudly recognizes the achievements of its talented student-athletes, and will be watching these outstanding fencers as they continue their successful journeys.