Hometown Hero: Tim Morehouse

LONDON (WHDH) -- Fencing is gaining in popularity at the Olympic Games and in the United States.

And part of that is thanks to Brandeis grad and three-time Olympian Tim Morehouse.

Fencing may not be the most high-profile sport at the Olympic Games, But don’t tell Tim Morehouse that.

“Fencing is a great sport, I think it’s the greatest in the world actually,” Morehouse said.

Olympic fencer Tim Morehouse is hoping the third time is the charm.

The 34-year-old was an alternate at the Athens games, won team silver in Beijing and now wants gold in London.

“Our goal is to be the number one fencing team in the world And i think we are headed in that direction," Morehouse said.

Tim grew up in the Bronx, New York, and admits his initial interest in fencing was not really for the best reasons.

“I actually didn't know what the sport was, saw a sign that said join fencing team, get out of gym,” Morehouse said.

But in just a few short years, and under the expert coaching at Brandeis University, Tim blossomed.

“Brandies really great school, got a great education, my time in Boston really helped shape me, gave me edge to go for an Olympic team,” said Morehouse.

And go for it he did, making the teams in 2004 and 2008.

Following the last Olympics, Tim found himself a bit of a celebrity.

“I actually threw out the first pitch at Fenway after the Beijing games,” Morehouse said.

And even rode the wave of success to the White House, where he and teammates hung out with the president and first lady.

“I was surprised they let us bring our real sabers into the White House, if you can’t trust the U.S. Olympic team who can you trust?” Morehouse said.

Between appearances at the Olympic Games, Tim found time to get his masters in teaching, write a book called "American fencer.”

And while Tim’s focus right now is in London, he is always thinking of the future of his beloved sport.

“We had our best Olympics in 2008, won 6 medals, people are already starting to become aware of our sport."

“Thats our goal, you will know our athletes as well as you know a Michael Phelps or an Apollo Ohno," Morehouse said.

And the when the games are all over, Tim has another big event to look forward to; he's getting married later this year.

While he has a lot to look forward to, unfortunately Tim did not get the medal he was after.

He was denied by Italy’s Diego Occhuizi.

Tim lost 15-9 in the quarterfinals. He kept it close early, trailing just 6-5. But his opponent rallied and built a 14-9 lead, then scored the final point.