It was only two years ago when Upper Dublin sophomore Jennifer Deasy decided to enroll in the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia, but thanks to being a quick study with flashy athleticism, she’s heading to Anaheim this summer to compete for the North American Cup at the 2012 National Fencing Championship.

“Fencing is a sport that I have wanted to do for a very long time,” said Deasy. “I like that it’s physical, but it also has a mental aspect as well. I have to plan out the strategies to try to bait and trick my opponent.”

Deasy, who is also an AP honors student, will compete in the Under-16, Under-19 and Division III categories for sabre fencing, which – unlike traditional foil fencing – focuses on cutting motions and rewards participants for strikes with the edge of the blade. Though Deasy admitted that she was initially surprised at qualifying for the championship, she quickly added that she’s ready to compete and make the most of her opportunity.

While her immediate focus is on practicing her sabre technique, Deasy said she is also looking forward to her first journey to the west coast, adding that she has already begun to make plans to hit some of the tourist areas of southern California.

“I’m very excited to go,” said Deasy, who added that Disneyland and Grauman’s Chinese Theater have made her to-do list. “I’ve never seen the Pacific as well, so I want to make sure I get to dip my feet in the water.”

The National Fencing Championships will be held in Anaheim, California from June 29 to July 8, and the Upper Dublin Patch wishes Jennifer Deasy the best of luck in her journey.