The 2025 Veteran World Fencing Championship: A Personal Journey
The 2025 Veteran World Fencing Championship, held in Manama, Bahrain from November 12 to 20, brought together 911 athletes representing 64 countries. Among these competitors was Kate Sierra, a Senior Instructional Designer and current Ph.D. student at Seton Hall University, making her mark in the fencing world.
Discovering Fencing
Kate’s relationship with fencing began unexpectedly. While studying at the University of Northern Iowa, she sought to fulfill a physical education requirement. However, due to limited resources, her interest in the sport was initially sidelined. Undeterred, Kate explored various fitness options, including Jazzercise and Zumba, before stumbling upon fencing classes that reignited her passion. Since then, she hasn’t looked back.
The Community of Fencers
Fencing has opened doors for Sierra, allowing her to connect with a diverse group of individuals who share a common love for the sport. She notes that “veteran” in fencing refers not to military service but rather to athletes aged 39 and older. This age category has fostered a unique community, where bonds are formed through shared experiences and a love for competition.
Sierra expressed her gratitude for the sense of belonging that comes with being part of this community, stating, “It’s great to have that bond with adults that I wouldn’t have normally gotten to meet otherwise.”
The Journey to Team USA
Qualifying for the 2025 Veterans Championship was no small feat for Sierra. To be selected to represent Team USA, she needed to secure a spot in the top four of the national points standings. After finishing fifth the previous year, Kate was driven to improve and dedicated countless hours to her training, all while managing the responsibilities of adult life, including her role as co-owner of the Richmond County Fencing Center in Staten Island.
Her husband not only supported her emotionally but also served as her coach, accompanying her to Bahrain for the competition. With her gear emblazoned with “USA,” she began to understand the significance of representing her country on an international stage.
The Emotional Experience in Bahrain
Competing in Bahrain was a transformative experience for Kate. Surrounded by both the excitement of the sport and the pressure of an international audience—including a livestream for viewers worldwide—she felt the thrill of competition like never before. Sierra praised her supportive team and liaison Kaitlyn Litton, who contributed significantly to her mental and emotional preparedness.
Reflecting on her performance, Sierra noted, “I fenced as best as I could.” Although she identified areas for improvement, she embraced the mindset that “when you lose, you learn,” recognizing that each competition is an opportunity for growth.
Inspiration to the Seton Hall Community
Though Kate did not clinch the gold medal, her achievements resonated deeply within the Seton Hall community. Blessy Phillip, a junior health sciences major, expressed pride in Sierra’s accomplishments and the inspiration they provide. “Learning more about her journey encourages me to pursue my passions alongside my major,” she remarked.
Similarly, Claire Bent, a freshman in secondary education, was taken aback by the duality of Sierra’s life as both a dedicated employee and world-level athlete. This revelation dispelled the myth that one must solely focus on a single career path.
Jasai Howard Wright, a freshman majoring in political science, echoed these sentiments, using Sierra’s journey as motivation to explore interests beyond academic confines, such as advocating for human rights.
Sierra’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, illustrating that pursuing personal passions alongside professional commitments is not only possible but rewarding.
Encouragement for Others
Throughout her journey, Kate Sierra emphasizes the importance of community and support in striving for excellence. She encourages students and staff alike to “pursue whatever it is that you want to do” and to lean on their communities for encouragement during moments of self-doubt.
Her mantra resonates profoundly: “Your community will keep you moving toward the goals that you’ve set.” As she continues to balance her life as an athlete and academic, Kate Sierra embodies the spirit of resilience and passion, proving that dreams can indeed be realized, no matter when they begin.