EPISODE 6 – TRISTAN SZAPARY INTERVIEW

The Fencing Podcast of all Fencing Podcasts

In this episode of Direct Elimination, hosts Ari Simmons and Stephen Ewart sit down with épée fencer Tristan Szapary — a rising American talent known for his relentless work ethic, mental focus, and ability to balance ambition with joy.

Tristan’s fencing journey began in Pennsylvania, training at Fencing Academy of Philadelphia and later competing at the highest levels of NCAA fencing with Princeton. As a member of Team USA, he has represented the country on the international stage, earning medals and respect as one of the brightest prospects in U.S. épée. But beyond results, Tristan is driven by something deeper: the pursuit of becoming the best version of himself — on and off the strip.

Throughout the conversation, Ari, Stephen, and Tristan dive into:

• How he discovered fencing and fell in love with the sport
• The influence of family, community, and early coaches in shaping his path
• The importance of mental training and how mindset can be the difference-maker in competition
• His “all-in” moment — when he committed fully to chasing greatness
• How he balances fencing, school, and personal life without losing the joy of the sport
• Why fencing’s culture of resilience and self-expression matters for athletes today
• Fun behind-the-scenes stories from training, travel, and the épée squad

Tristan’s story is a reminder that fencing is about more than medals. It’s about finding joy in the grind, using challenges as fuel, and embracing the fight to grow.

🗣️ “If you enjoy learning how training your mentality can improve your game, how to maximize the enjoyment of what you do, and how to pursue becoming the best version of yourself — this episode’s for you.”

⏱ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & sponsor shoutout
02:00 – Introducing Tristan Szapary
05:00 – Early days at Main Line Fencing Club
10:00 – Discovering the mental side of fencing
16:00 – The “Why Behind the Win” segment
22:00 – Tristan’s all-in moment
28:00 – Training, school, and balance
35:00 – Joy vs. pressure in elite fencing
42:00 – Team USA experiences & international bouts
50:00 – Lessons from setbacks and growth mindset
56:00 – One Light Answers (rapid fire)
1:02:00 – Closing reflections & gratitude

💬 Key Quotes

• “You can train your body, but if you don’t train your mind, you’re missing half the game.”
• “I always come back to joy — if you’re not enjoying it, what’s the point?”
• “Becoming the best version of yourself is the real victory.”

Thank you for listening!

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