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Male "Liz" Kocab wins 9th Fencing World Championship, retires
Posted February 10, 2025 by MKatie in SaveWomensSports

This was spotted and thought it was worth sharing about the TIM "Liz" Kocab who was known for taking championship spots in women's fencing. Yet again he's taken a world championship victory, and announced his 'retirement' after totaling nine world championships in first. This is taken from the Facebook page of the fencing group "Liz" frequents, Plymouth/Ann Arbor Fencing Academy:

Edited to add: I forgot the date, this was posted December 6th.

Liz Kocab Closes Out Stellar Fencing Career with Ninth World Championship Title

On October 16, 2024, at 5:38 pm Dubai time, Liz Kocab etched her name in fencing history once more. At the Hamdan Sports Complex, she scored the winning touch against Britain's Jane Clayton in the final bout, securing her ninth Individual World Championship title in the Veteran category.

Moments after securing her ninth World Championship title, Liz sent a one-word text to her coach: "NIKE." This simple message was a pre-arranged code they had used for years, referencing the Greek Goddess of Victory, and symbolizing her gold medal.

This memorable moment marked the culmination of Liz Kocab's storied fencing career, spanning decades. Liz is retiring from competitive fencing, leaving behind a lasting legacy of unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for the sport. Her training regimen, spanning years, is a testament to her unyielding drive to excel.

Maestro Gil Pezza, Kocab's coach, succinctly captures her essence: "Liz has been training daily for years; gym and epee lessons in the morning three times per week, and bouts in the evening, with a weekly footwork session with Coach Ian Rozich. Her work ethic and dedication to the sport are truly inspiring."

With her final touch in Dubai, Liz hung up her epee, closing the chapter on a career that will continue to inspire other fencers in the years to come. Liz's impressive medal tally is a reflection of her tireless efforts. She has amassed nine gold medals, one silver medal and one bronze medal at the World Championships, including titles in the Vet 50, Vet 60, and Vet 70 Women's Epee categories. Her success extends to team events, with two gold medals won in 2017 and 2022. On the national stage, Liz has been equally formidable, claiming 10 gold medals and one silver medal at the National Championships. “Her victories are a testament to her enduring skills and competitive spirit,” said PA2FA club owner and Coach Anthony Kosla.

As Liz bids farewell to competitive fencing, her dedication, work ethic, and passion for fencing serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring fencers: That is, hard work, smart training, and unwavering commitment are key to success. We salute Liz on her remarkable career and wish her all the best.

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