Australian National Champions 2010


Following the Australian National Champions in Brisbane for AFF #4
The 6 National Champions kindly offered to answer a series of questions on their results and “Achievements” for the Competition and their careers.


Australian National Champion 2010Mens Foil Joe Slowiaczek NSW.


1. When and why did you start Fencing?
A:I started fencing as an after school activity in 2000 at Primary School.
I thought it looked a fun thing to do, my mother told me I wouldn’t like it…she was wrong!! 
 
2. How many countries have you competed in, where is your favourite, and where would you love to Fence?
A:Countries I’ve competed in are;

Austria, Bulgaria, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Korea, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Turkey

I’ve also trained in Italy (Pisa & Rome) China (Shanghai and Guangzhou) Madrid and London.

My favorite country is probably France, but my favorite country I’ve fenced in would have to be Spain, there are lots of good fencing memories for me there because that is where in 2006 I achieved 3rd place in a junior world cup.
 
3. What was your motivation for winning the 2010 National Fencing Championships?
A: To start to return to the level I was at a few of years ago, and then to go on and improve.

4. Do you think Fencing in France in the World Champs helped you?
A: It’s been a while since I competed overseas, so it was a helpful reminder and incentive.
 
5. Now (that you won this year) what are your future goals? 
A: I would love to make it to the Olympics. 
 
 6. Why do you believe you succeeded this year?
A: I put it down to drive, motivation and experience this year, I have come close in the past and I knew that this year was the year for me.
 
 7. Was there anything you did better this year than previous years? 
A: I would have to say my fencing. I was more calm, controlled and driven at this comp than I have been in previous years.
 

8. Whats next for you in 2010/2011? (Training, Break, Travel?)

A: A short Christmas break, then back to training, I’d like to compete overseas next year, especially in Asia, but the cost is always an issue.


9. What competitions will you do Internationally or plan to do / if any in 2011?

A: This will all be determined by finances, but hopefully the Asian competitions.


10. Can you give us a motto/philosophy you follow in your fencing? (for future Australian champions)

A: History favors the brave, it has been a motto and a state of mind that I have tried to adopt throughout my entire fencing game. I have seen so many people lose bouts because they have been scared or hesitant in there actions, and I know I have won many points I possibly should not have won, by putting everything on the line and just doing what, deep down I know I can do.


11. If you could provide encouragement for Juniors coming through what would it be?

A: Even the World’s top fencers have bad competitions, try and learn from them if they happen, and not be discouraged, believe in yourself and know you can never stop learning.


Thanks So much Joe..

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