How Fencing Shaped Thomas’ Education and Global Dreams

Adebodunrin Thomas was part of the Nigerian team at the 2025 African Fencing Championships held in Lagos.

For the teenager, making the national team was a dream come true.

Just a few years after embracing fencing, Thomas has already reaped remarkable rewards. Through the sport, she secured a scholarship to continue her education at one of the UK’s prestigious institutions—Wellington College.

At just 17, Thomas stands as a shining example of how dedication, passion, and the right support can open doors to life-changing opportunities. She admits that fencing has given her not only discipline and confidence but also invaluable exposure that continues to shape her future in powerful ways.

A proud member of the Lagos Fencing Club (LFC), Thomas reflected on her journey:

“It was an amazing experience representing Nigeria at the continental tournament last year, being my first time in national colours. I felt a mix of pressure and empowerment. I am really grateful to everyone who has helped me, especially the Lagos Fencing Club. They pushed me and helped me secure this scholarship. I am proud to be working with such experienced coaches and talented students. I hope that my new experience at Wellington will not only make me a better fencer but also push me academically. My goal is to balance both so I can go further.”

Her father, Adebola, expressed immense pride in her achievements, describing her journey as one that has showcased her talent, strengthened her confidence, and positioned her for global opportunities:
“We are very fortunate to secure a significant scholarship, which made funding much easier and allowed us to enroll her at Wellington. She has gained publicity through fencing, and we are proud of her accomplishments. Any opportunity to expose our children to other parts of the world helps them become well-rounded individuals. We have noticed that fencing has instilled more discipline in her and improved her sportsmanship. It’s a technical sport, and it has helped her mature.”

For Adeyinka Samuel, President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation, Thomas’ story underscores the broader value of fencing. He emphasized that the sport is more than just competition—it develops focus, resilience, strategic thinking, coordination, and physical fitness. Beyond that, fencing builds self-confidence, teamwork, and opens global opportunities for young talents.
Through strategic partnerships with several top-tier international institutions in the United Kingdom and the United States, the Lagos Fencing Club also offers eligible students scholarship opportunities of up to 50 percent—further demonstrating how the sport can transform lives both on and off the piste.