For senior fencer Emmy Hupart, the journey to become captain of the Ramapo fencing team didn’t follow a typical path.
At the start of freshman year, Hupart faced challenges that made it difficult to remain in school. Prioritizing her well-being, she stepped away and completed her freshman year through online classes. By October 2023, she returned to Ramapo, determined to rebuild her routine and reconnect with the school community.
Although Hupart had earned enough credits to transfer back, school policy required additional credits for students to compete in athletics. That meant she could join the team, but wasn’t eligible to compete in official meets or tournaments.
Hupart’s friends Meri and Sara encouraged her to join the team anyway to get involved and find something she enjoyed. Taking their advice, Emmy joined the team and began attending every single practice.
Although she was only allowed to participate in practices and novice tournaments her sophomore year, Hupart used the time to develop her skills and gain experience.
“In hopes of getting better for the next year of fencing, I started going to GFA, a fencing club outside of Ramapo.” Hupart demonstrated her dedication to a sport in which she wasn’t even allowed to compete. Many would’ve quit, many would’ve decided it wasn’t worth their time, but Hupart turned this “disadvantage” into an opportunity for success. Assistant Coach of the girls’ fencing team, Coach Palmieri said, “Her ability to focus on what needs to be done is better described as a ‘force of nature’ rather than simply a desire to improve.”
When she became eligible to compete during her junior year, she made the most out of this opportunity.
And she made the most of this opportunity.
During her first full season, Emmy finished with an impressive 23-10 record, placing 6th in the county, 3rd in squad districts, and 20th in the state. She also competed in novice tournaments, earning 1st- and 3rd-place finishes.
After that outstanding breakthrough season, Emmy continued pushing herself to improve. She began training consistently at Master’s Fencing Academy, where she still practices today.
Now wrapping up her senior year, Emmy has been given the fitting role of Captain. Once again, impressively finishing 6th in the county and 26th in the state.
Emma Mattioli, a junior on the fencing team, commented, “Emmy has been a pleasure to co-captain with. She has continuously helped out with the team and is always there when I need some help. I can’t wait to see where she goes and how much she accomplishes! Love you, Emmy.”
Both coaches of the girls’ fencing team are impressed with Emmy’s commitment and work ethic. Coach Miller said, “Emerson’s tenacity and commitment toward athletics, academics, and music are exemplary and, in turn, bring her to the next level in everything she does. As a team captain, she was a terrific leader and example for our team, which made our job as coaches a great deal easier. In a short time, she has established herself in the Fencing community and will most certainly accomplish great things at the collegiate level. I am so very proud of her.”
Looking back, Emmy says the obstacles she faced early on ultimately helped shape the athlete she is today. From stepping away from school to returning as team captain, Emmy’s story reflects resilience, determination, and the support of friends who encouraged her to keep going.
