<p>Does anyone know more about it? I know they have fencing instruction in both fall and spring, but do they have varsity and/or JV teams? How is the sport like in general? Have almost zero knowledge about the sport here, so any input would be appreciated.</p>
<p>I didn’t fence at Andover, but a bunch of my friends did. They don’t have varsity or JV, it was a purely instructional sport. My understanding was that it was pretty laid back. They practice with three different weapons, but I’m not sure whether you choose one for the term or whether you can just show up at a weapon’s time and practice. I think most people in it come into Andover with no experience, but there were at least two fencers who were nationally ranked. I don’t know if they ever had to miss school for competitions, but Andover is pretty understanding about stuff like that, so long as it’s infrequent.</p>
<p>Thanks, Tapper7. I am also interested in knowing more about squash. Is it popular? Is it difficult to get into the V or JV teams?</p>
<p>My son will be glad to know this information. He took fencing when he was younger but had to quit when his teacher moved. He has mentioned several times that he’d like to do it again. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but he does have his Andover interview scheduled for Columbus Day already. (We figured that with school starting late, we should schedule tours as early as possible.)</p>
<p>How many kids participate?</p>
<p>One of my friends still at Andover sometimes does miss classes for competitions. I never did fencing either, but I gather that it’s mostly done for fun. Those who are nationally ranked do this to stay in shape, and take lessons on weekends in addition. During the summer, they do much more intensive programs. Fencing at Andover is primarily instructional, but people of all levels should find opponents. I’m not sure of exact numbers for participation, however.</p>
<p>When I walked through the gym during their practices there seemed to be a good amount of kids fencing. I’m guessing 15 or so Of course that changes every term. I think they do have a couple competitions, but more scrimmages than anything.</p>