A TAMESIDE College student has made a remarkable breakthrough in national fencing after taking up the sport less than two years ago.
Violet Griffiths, who studies sport at the Ashton-based college, only began fencing in 2023 but has already competed in around 30 competitions, collecting 15 medals along the way.
Their rapid progress has now earned them a place on the prestigious GB fencing pathway, a development programme designed to nurture athletes with Olympic potential.
The pathway gives selected fencers access to Team GB coaches, specialist training camps and advanced performance development, with the long-term aim of preparing them for international competition.
Violet is currently ranked 30th in the junior standings nationwide and has taken part in some of the sport’s most competitive events, including the under-23 national championships, the British Youth Championships and the British Open.
At the British Youth Championships, they finished an impressive ninth, competing against athletes who are part of the GB Olympic squad.
Their journey into fencing began through a local historical sword skills group, where Violet was drawn to the sport’s mix of tactics, speed and mental discipline. Encouragement from coaches at Ashton Fencing Club soon led them into competitive fencing.
Looking ahead, Violet hopes to break into the top four nationally, which would open the door to selection for the British Olympic squad and international competition. Longer term, they also have ambitions to move into professional coaching.
Violet said: “I’m hoping to get qualified and achieve my GB patches. Keeping the mental strength and tactical awareness is important and there’s a lot of cardio involved, so it’s a big commitment.
“The mental reward is amazing and the idea of reaching the Olympics would be incredible. It doesn’t matter if you’re not so good at a sport currently, it’s the training and dedication that will give you success in the end. It just takes that commitment to achieve.”
Tracey Hobson, sports teacher at Tameside College, said: “Violet’s achievements are extraordinary, especially in such a short time. Their commitment, discipline and ambition reflect what the college instils in all of its students. We are incredibly proud of their progress and excited to see what the future holds for them.”
With national rankings rising and Olympic ambitions firmly in sight, Violet’s fencing career is already shaping up to be one to watch.