How do you turn early setbacks into a sustainable elite career—while helping the next generation do it better? U.S. men’s epee fencer Ari Simmons—cadet world champion, 4x All-American at Notre Dame, coach/mentor, and co-host of The Direct Elimination Podcast—joins First to 15 to talk culture change in men’s epee, college recruiting realities, avoiding burnout with intention and process goals, and why mentorship is essential on the road to LA 2028. Guest Ari Simmons — U.S. Men’s Épée; Cadet World Champion; 4x All-American (Notre Dame); Coach/Mentor; Co-host, The Direct Elimination Podcast Chapters 00:00 Intro — one-touch margins and LA 2028 01:29 Origin story: Alliance Fencing Academy to cadet world champ 06:50 Why mentorship and shared training matter 08:24 Junior success vs. senior results: bridging the gap 10:50 The Seth Kelsey effect on U.S. men’s epee 14:42 College recruiting: fit, honesty, and today’s expectations 23:12 Commitment coaches look for now 24:35 Burnout: intention, p...