Today, we are thrilled to share great transformative news: AFM Coach Zhanna Bikkina has been officially announced to join the Stanford Fencing Program as their new Épée coach assistant!

When Zhanna started working at AFM more than 5 years ago, we immediately saw that she has a dream of high ambitions, and since then she proved this vision with remarkable results – from National titles to World Championship medals. But beyond the impressive competitive achievements, what truly sets Zhanna apart is her ability to nurture talent with patience and wisdom, and to inspire athletes to reach beyond their perceived limits. Combined with her natural desire for team collaboration and building strong training environments, these qualities make her an exceptional coach who transforms not just fencing results, but characters and lives.

In joining Stanford’s program, Zhanna will work alongside Head Coach Alexander Massialas – himself a Stanford graduate, multiple Olympic medalist, International Fencing Star, World Champion, and the world’s top-ranked fencer in the 2023 season. Such outstanding talent as Alexander Massialas, known for his vision, dedication to the sport of fencing, and big dreams that he proved can be achieved, will take Stanford fencing to further heights! His vision to make Stanford, one of the world’s premier academic institutions, the best NCAA team isn’t just exciting – it’s transformative for collegiate fencing in our region and in the country at whole.

This new chapter doesn’t mean goodbye to our beloved coach – far from it. Zhanna will continue her vital role at AFM while contributing to Stanford’s program. This dual position creates a unique opportunity to strengthen the entire fencing ecosystem in our region. Having a powerful collegiate fencing program at Stanford in all three weapons, guided by coaches of this caliber, will elevate the sport for everyone.

The future of fencing in our region looks brighter than ever. With Alex Massialas’s vision and Olympic experience leading Stanford’s program, and Zhanna’s expertise strengthening the épée squad, we’re witnessing the beginning of something truly special. This combination of talent, experience, and dedication will undoubtedly create new pathways for young fencers to pursue their dreams at the highest level.

To Coach Zhanna: We couldn’t be prouder. Your journey from shaping champions at AFM to now influencing collegiate fencing at Stanford as an epee coach assistant shows that excellence knows no bounds. You’ve proven that with passion, dedication, and commitment to your athletes, anything is possible.

To Stanford Fencing: We wish you to achieve all your big and beautiful dreams! And for Alex to break all records and reach his 5th Olympics from Stanford, showing the way of ultimate excellence and passion!

At AFM, we look forward to continuing our role in this exciting journey, supporting both Zhanna and Stanford’s program in their pursuit of excellence. We all will enjoy and benefit from watching Stanford fencing rise to new heights under Alex Massialas’s leadership!

Here’s to new beginnings and the bright future of fencing in our region. Go, Cardinal!