After being introduced to fencing two years ago, Matthew Mulville has managed to achieve a ranking of fourth in the U15 category for Gauteng and he has also been awarded Gauteng colours.
The 13-year-old fencer began the combat sport after a friend briefly discussed it with him. The conversation took place as Covid-19 hit and with schools not offering sports during that time, he wanted to keep active. “I went to the Berario Recreation Centre to check it out and signed up straight away,” he said.
Matthew has competed in many competitions, travelling throughout Gauteng. To achieve his colours, he had to have competed in three schools’ leagues as well as two ranking competitions and finished in the top six.
One of his favourite moments of the past two years was his first competition in which he was able to place in the top three. This added to his love and drive for the sport.
Coming up in March and April are the Schools’ League competitions which he is now preparing for. There will also be national ranking competitions in May and national championships in September. “I’m hoping to be part of those competitions.”
Through fencing, he has learned he does not have to be intimated by anyone bigger or older than him. He hoped people knew that fencing was great fun. “It is fast-paced and gives a great cardio workout and makes you think on your feet. It develops agility, reflexes and flexibility.”
He is part of the Olympia Fencing Club and trains every Tuesday and Thursday at Berario Recreation Centre.
