Welcome to our latest Emerging Athlete Programme blog where this month we are shining the spotlight on Perth’s own Miller Hetherington who is a rising star in the world of fencing. At just age 16, Miller has already represented the GBR team at the European Fencing Championships in Naples and is now eagerly anticipating his first season as a Junior (U20) when competing at the British Fencing National Junior Championships in Nottingham this September. Join us we step into the world of fencing and find out more about Miller’s achievements so far and his plans for the future.

What inspired you to start fencing?

All my friends were playing sports and I went along to lots of tasters sessions until I found the sport I enjoyed. I started fencing at 8 years old.

Who is your biggest inspiration in the world of sport and why?

My coach Professor Phil Carson as without his support and guidance I wouldn’t be where I am at the moment. He has shown and taught me to have faith in my own abilities and that nothing works like hard work works.

What are some of the challenges you face while fencing, and how do you overcome them?

Some of my main challenges are burnout and injuries. I have to travel a lot for my sport so that can be very tiring. When I feel burnt out, I take a short break from training to re-focus on me. When I’m injured, I work with my coaches from Salle Ossian, Emerging Athlete Programme (EAP) and my physio Nick Summersgill to get me back to full strength as soon as possible.

What is your training regimen like, and how do you balance it with other commitments?

I train up to 5 times a week at Salle Ossian, this includes lessons with Coach Phil Carson and fighting bouts. I undertake Strength and Conditioning sessions with EAP and Gil Stevenson. When studying for exams I maintain my S&C sessions but ease back on the time at the Salle so I can balance school and training.

What are some of the most important skills you need to excel at fencing?

To be a good fencer you need speed and strength for the agility, and you need to be able to focus your mind to anticipating and reacting to your opponent’s moves.

What is your favourite moment or memory while fencing?

My favourite moment so far is being selected as part of the GBR Cadet Sabre Fencing Team to fence in Europe.

What are some of the biggest competitions or tournaments in fencing in 2024, and what are your goals for participating in them?

Being selected and fencing in the GBR team in the European Fencing Championships in Naples. Being selected for both Cadet and Junior Scottish Fencing teams for the C&J Fencing Commonwealth's in New Zealand in July. And in September the British Fencing National Junior Championships in Nottingham, this competition will be my first season as a Junior (U20).

How do you handle setbacks or challenges in your athletic endeavours?

When I have a setback, I take a short time out to mentally rest myself so I don’t train with a negative mindset.

How do you stay motivated and focused during training and competitions?

I really enjoy my sport and want to train and compete in it, so it makes it easy to stay motivated and focused.

Are there any rituals or routines you follow before competitions to get you in the right mindset?

The night before a competition I make sure I am well hydrated and get an early night. In the morning I have a big breakfast to set me up for the day.

What strategies do you use to stay mentally and physically sharp?

When I am feeling stressed I use the 4x4 breathing technique.

What advice would you give to other young athletes who are just starting out in fencing?

Find a sport you enjoy and commit to it and you will have a great time.

What is your biggest accomplishment as an athlete so far?

My biggest achievement so far was in the European Fencing Cadet Circuit when I came 5th in Istanbul.

What is your favourite sports quote?

“Nothing works like hard work works”

It’s the Salle Ossian motto, we have this on the wall of the Salle to remind us we are the only thing stopping us achieving our goals and if we put in the work we will get where we want to be.

How has Live Active’s Emerging Athlete Programme helped you to develop as an athlete?

Training with Gil and Stevie has shown me how to have a structured training program, this has allowed me to strengthen my body allowing me to have more explosive energy in competitions. Without this additional training I would not be where I am in my sport, The mindset training I undertake with EAP is complimenting the training I am getting from Salle Ossian and GBR Fencing in helping me focus my mind for training and competitions.

What social media platforms are you on so people can follow your journey?

You can follow me on Instagram: @miller13400