Distracted fencing is poor fencing
All fencers - but especially those new to competing - will have to learn ways to cope with distractions at competition in order to maintain their mental focus as well as manage nerves. In addition to the many distractions that can be present, a fencer must also learn to cope with frustration when a touch or bout is not going how they expected.
Here are two great articles by Dr. Justin Tausig for Better Fencer that discuss this. Dr. Tausig is a World Cup medalist and a former 6-time member of the U.S. National Fencing Team. He holds a doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology.
