Can’t Touche Dis Fencer—An Interview with Tazman Libson

Tazman Libson

Height: 6’1”
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Dark Blond
Birthday: 3/13/2002

1. When did you start fencing?

I started fencing 10 years ago. I went to a fencing summer camp and kept with it.

2. What are your goals for this season?

I think we can win playoffs this year. It's going to be a lot of work, but I believe we have it in us.

3. Is there anything you want to work on for your own skills?

Yes, for me it's endurance. By the end of a three-hour tournament, I get really tired.

4. Any challenges the team faces?

Not enough fencing time. Unfortunately the dance studio can only have three strips, so not everyone can get enough fencing time. We also need to do more conditioning (myself included). It's hard to balance both fencing and conditioning.

5. Do you fence outside of school?

Definitely. I compete semi-often in solo tournaments. I actually have two tournaments this weekend. During the week, I'll miss one practice to go to a fencing club up on 28th Street. During the off-season, I'll fence two to three times a week. I'm hoping to get that number up to four to five this year.

6. What is your respective position and what does that entail?

I'm a co-captain with Alex Lin. I generally lead each practice through our conditioning, footwork, drills, and fencing. I also give private lessons to members of the team.

7. How do you deal with schoolwork and fencing; any tips?

I try to get as much work as possible done at school. Otherwise it just cuts into my sleep schedule.

8. Favorite or funniest memory?

Not one particular memory but one of my favorite things in fencing is foot touches. Getting that perfectly timed touch, there's really nothing quite like it.

9. Proudest memory so far?

Regarding the team, it has to be just a couple of weeks ago [when] two other members placed top six—Micheal Russo in fourth and Alex Lin in sixth. They both came into the team with no fencing experience. To see how far they've come in such a short time was great [...].

Favorite food: Omelettes, preferably with hot sauce.
Favorite drink: Sparkling water. I drink about one to three liters a day.
Motto to live by: There's always more optimization to be done.
Fun fact: I'm actually from Northern California. I moved here in 2014.