Whether she is hitting the books or the mat, senior Leigha Capra always exceeds expectations. After fencing since she was just a freshman, Capra was awarded 1st Team All-State for women’s epee on March 3rd.

“When I first found out I won 1st Team All-State, I was thrilled,” Capra said. “I wasn’t sure if I would make it because I placed 4th at Districts, but the rest of my record was enough for me to still get the award and it was a great way to end my high school career.”

Capra placed sixth in the state for epee, the heaviest of three different weapons used in fencing, but was awarded the All-State title because of her overall record for the season. She said she worked hard to get as good as she is in the past four years and this clearly paid off.

“I qualified for states last year as well, and then began training at a private club,” Capra said.  “For a year I’ve been going to club for 4 – 5 hours a week, taking lessons, and working on fencing individuals with different styles and techniques.”

Capra plays for coaches Amanda Fernicola and Mark Trudnos for the school team. She also plays for coach Steve Griffiths on  her club team.

When looking ahead to college, Capra said she wants to continue to fence and will definitely join a club team, but is not sure if she will play on a school team. Capra loves the sport because of the different factors that it takes to succeed.

“My favorite part about fencing is the combination of mental and physical effort,” Capra said. “There’s a unique factor that comes with being face to face with your opponent that I haven’t found in any other sport.”