Gabby Zusin, a junior on the Cornell Fencing Team, headed to NCAA nationals this past weekend. In her tournament debut, she’ll be joined by the top girls in the nation, including some Olympians. We spoke with Gabby to learn more about fencing and her experience with the sport, and to get a look into what it’s like to be heading to a national championship.
How did you originally get involved with fencing?
I used to play soccer until age 10. My parents actually just randomly brought me to a fencing club one day to try it out, and I fell in love instantly. I realized I enjoy the individual aspect to the sport more than the team aspect of soccer.
What do you think is the greatest thing about fencing?
Being able to look failure in the eyes and overcome it. You fence multiple bouts during a competition, so you really have to be able to let go of a loss.
How has being a successful athlete helped you grow and develop?
Being a successful athlete has taught me an immense number of skills that I will take with me wherever I go in my future. The most important traits I have developed are dedication, perseverance, and obedience. Learning how to work through failure and turn it into something great has been the most challenging aspect of the sport, yet also the most rewarding.
Are you a big foodie? Do you have special pump up music? Tell me about some of your fav life ~rituals~
I have a deep obsession with cheeses. My favorite pump up music is anything heavy rap or EDM. The music has to make me angry and energized. Before each competition, I have a playlist I listen to called “I Hate Everyone.” I wouldn’t say I actually hate everyone, but the rappers sound like they’re screaming at me, which pumps me up.
How has being a part of a team shaped your college experience?
I have definitely learned a lot of people skills throughout my years on this team. It’s actually one of the reasons I want to work in HR — I really enjoy figuring out what motivates people and how to exploit those reasons to help my teammates work harder. Fencing isn’t actually a team sport, but NCAA sort of makes it into one. You still fence each girl individually, but each one of your victories counts towards the overall score against the school you are fencing. I really liked the transition from wholly individual to semi-team because I can be accountable for myself but also work towards a greater cause.
What do you think led to your success this season?
I have always felt incredibly supported by my team, especially my foil squad. During competitions, we know exactly what to say to each other before, after, and during bouts. Also, I have a strong relationship with my coaches, and I only have them to thank for supporting and motivating me for the past few months with my foot injury (I have a pinched nerve in my left foot). They worked with me one-on-one to develop targeted workouts, so that I could stay in shape without actually fencing or putting pressure on my foot. Hopefully, my foot can withstand this weekend, and I am seriously looking forward to it!
