CLEVELAND, Ohio – Cleveland State University head fencing coach Andy Tulleners announced that two student-athletes have signed National Letters of Intent (NLI's) to continue their careers with the Vikings.
Abigail Barr and Shelbie Seeberg both signed NLI's during the recent early signing period to commit to CSU for the 2018-19 academic year.
"We are very excited to have Abby and Shelbie joining the women's team next season," Tulleners said. "Abby and Shelbie come to the Cleveland State fencing team bringing in national competitive experience. Both are good students to help continue the strong academic tradition on the women's fencing team."
Abigail D. Barr
Hometown: Bellingham, Wash.
Fencing Club: Rain City Fencing Center
Coach: Greg Jones
Major: Biology
Weapon: Epee
Best Fencing Moment:
At the October NAC, my shoe slipped off during a DE while I was retreating and counterattacking. It amused my coach, the referee and me. My opponent didn't seem to know what was going on. I still got the touch though! I was stressing over the bout, so a good laugh helped me loosen up and refocus, and thanks to that I ended up winning 15-14 and renewing my C.
What you're looking forward to at CSU:
Fencing! I've always wanted to be on an NCAA team and I'm really excited I'm getting this opportunity.
Why CSU?
During my college search, I was looking for a Division I team with a strong science program. After narrowing down to three, CSU was the most welcoming and affordable. Plus, Vikings are cool!
Other hobbies and achievements:
Whatcom Community College Dean's List - Spring 2017, 2014/2015 Y14 Bronze Regional Points Winner. I am also an avid player of video games, my favorites being Pokémon, Left 4 Dead 2, and TERA.
Shelbie Seeberg
Hometown: Gainesville, Fla.
Fencing Club: Stoccata Fencing Academy
Coach: Nestor Grajales
Major: Environmental Science
Weapon: Foil
Best Fencing Moment:
I was fencing a guy in a direct elimination bout. We kept pushing each other up and down the strip, both equally exhausted and fighting for the touches. I was down 12-14 in the third round, and when the referee said 'fence,' I just advanced and lunged in desperation. All I heard was "point!" and I thought I missed, so I took off my mask and saluted. When I looked up, I realized it had been a single touch that was mine! I was frankly surprised, but everyone started laughing because we all realized I had no idea what was going on. It was a welcomed funny moment in such a stressful bout.
What you're looking forward to at CSU:
I hope to learn all I can in my field as well as learn about topics that surprise me. I am looking forward to becoming a better fencer and gaining experiences and friendships that could only come from being surrounded by snow.
Why CSU?
I love the atmosphere that not only surrounds the university but also the city. I get to continue growing in the sport I love all while being surrounded by snow, and a great fresh market just a hop-skip-and-jump away.
Other Hobbies or achievements:
When I lived in Oregon, I used to snowboard every winter with my older brother and my family. I love reading, baking as well as watching any movie, good or hilariously bad.
