Photo byAustin PachecoonUnsplash

The state of New Jersey, affectionately known as the 'Garden State,' might be small, but don't let its size fool you! It's packed with more character than a superhero's utility belt. Stretching from Sandy Hook to Cape May, it's a place where you can catch a whiff of salty sea air and a whiff of fresh, countryside breeze - all in the same day! Now, let's delve into the mysterious world of fencing in this fantastic state. There's a unique group of kids who've traded their video game swords for actual epees, foils, and sabres, and they've become quite the swordplay prodigies. They are 'The Jersey Fencing Squad,' a band of fearless, fun-loving kids who swish and flick their swords with so much skill, you'd think they were born with them in their hands. At the helm of this adventurous group is their leader, Captain Zorro. No, not the Spanish outlaw but a twelve-year-old kid with wild curly hair, freckles, and a wicked sense of humor. He’s got a laugh that can shake the rafters and a heart as big as his foil. With a twinkle in his eye and his trusty fencing mask perched atop his head like a shiny steel crown, he leads his team to countless victories – and even more pizza parties! Each day, as they perfect their parries, ripostes, and lunges, they fill the fencing halls with a symphony of clashing swords and peals of laughter. So, every time you hear the words, "En garde! Prêt? Allez!" echoing across the vast New Jersey lands, know that the 'Jersey Fencing Squad' is having yet another epic practice session, led by their spirited Captain Zorro!