Fencing SEA Games 2025 Thailand Preview: Team Singapore's Fencers Ready to Rise on the Regional Stage
- John Yeong
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Inside Team Singapore’s Preparations for a Breakthrough Fencing Performance - a Blend of Rising Talent and Veteran Leadership Poised for Podium Success
SINGAPORE, 24 November 2025 - As the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand draws near, Team Singapore’s fencing squad is sharpening its blades—both literally and mentally—after an intensive season of world-class competitions, overseas training camps, and crucial ranking battles.
From seasoned champions to first-time qualifiers, the team enters the regional showpiece with renewed drive and a united focus on the podium.
This preview brings together insights gathered during last week’s SEA Games Media Day at the High Performance Sports Institute (HPSI), Sport Singapore, where athletes and support staff shared their ambitions, reflections, and preparations for the year’s most anticipated multi-sport event.
Julian Soh: A Breakthrough Season and a Debut on the Senior Stage
For rising fencer Julian Soh, the road to the SEA Games has been defined by resilience. Fresh off competitions at the World Championships and Asian Championships, the young foilist described significant growth through facing tougher and unfamiliar senior-level opponents.
“These are my first senior major games,” Julian shared. “Opponents are tougher, the environment is tougher… but it’s a really good experience for me to grow as a fencer.”
Although he struggled at his first Asian Championships, his recovery and improvement afterwards proved pivotal. Qualification for the SEA Games came through ranking—something he had been working toward for two years.
“Once I made the rank, I was very happy. I’ve been fighting for this spot for the past two years.”
Julian enters Thailand determined, grounded, and eager to prove himself in his senior Games debut.
Women’s Sabre Team: Jermaine Tan & Jae Lim Aim for the Podium
In the women’s sabre squad, Jermaine Tan and Jae Lim have taken very different routes to the SEA Games—but their shared determination is unmistakable.
Surprise, Relief, and Momentum for Jermaine Tan
Ranked outside the top four earlier in the season, Jermaine described her qualification as both surprising and exhilarating.
“I was ranked 5th or 6th… making it past pools in Korea was a very good feeling. A pleasant surprise.”
Her recent run of strong performances has boosted confidence at just the right time.
Steady Consistency and Debut Excitement for Jae Lim
Jae, who held a consistent third place ranking, had her eyes set on the individual event qualification—reserved for the top two.
“I didn’t make it for individual, but I’m not disappointed. I’m a debutant, and very excited for my first SEA Games.”
Both fencers emphasized their rigorous preparations, including an upcoming training camp in Korea from 1–9 December, designed to sharpen competitive readiness ahead of Thailand.
Aiming High
Their collective target: a podium finish.
Jermaine: “We’re definitely aiming for top 3.”
Jae: “We’re capable of reaching the finals or even winning if we do well.”
Amita Berthier: Two Times Olympian, The Veteran Leader and Two-Time SEA Games Champion
At the helm of the women’s foil team stands Amita Berthier—double SEA Games gold medallist, Olympian, and one of Singapore’s most accomplished fencers.
Six years after her last SEA Games appearance, her role has evolved dramatically.
“Back then I competed without pressure. Now the pressure is there—but that’s what drives me.”
Now a leader and mentor, she sees her responsibility extending far beyond her own results.
“I want to be a good leader to my younger teammates—help them calm down and be someone to lean on.”
Despite having competed on the world’s biggest stage at the Olympic Games, the SEA Games remains personally meaningful.
“You always have to start somewhere, and Southeast Asia is a good place to test your capability. It’s very important how we deliver and act as athletes.”
For Amita, the Games are not just a competition—they are a crucial platform for growth, values, and leadership.
Behind the Blades: Psychological Preparation at HPSI
Performance at the elite level is never just physical, and Sports Psychologist Joy Kuan from the High Performance Sports Institute plays a vital role in the team’s SEA Games readiness.
Joy works closely with the athletes and coaches through workshops, individual consultations, and training-session observations.
“We work hand-in-hand with coaches to provide whatever support is needed.”
Her involvement ensures that Singapore’s fencers are mentally equipped to handle pressure, adapt quickly, and stay focused in the high-stakes environment of a major Games.
Singapore Fencing at SEA Games 2025: A Confident, Balanced, and Hungry Squad
As Team Singapore heads toward the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, they bring a blend of promising youth, experienced leadership, and robust sports science support.
Key storylines to watch include:
Julian Soh’s debut and his transition into the senior ranks
The women’s sabre team’s podium push
Senior athletes guidance for the debutants from Amita Berthier and Kiria Tikanah
A strong support network through HPSI psychologists, coaches, and training camps
Athletes who have grown through international exposure and are ready to test themselves on the regional stage
From newcomers chasing breakthrough performances to seasoned champions chasing history, Singapore’s fencers are poised to deliver another electrifying chapter in the country’s SEA Games legacy. #SEAGames2025 #SEAGamesThailand #TeamSG #Fencing