We've talked a lot about how important it is for our children to have real joy in their sport. That results come and go, but joy is the main factor driving those results. Many parents I've talked to nod their heads in understanding, but frankly it's hard to really...
The 2025-2026 fencing season is half way through! Regional and National competitions are running across the country, and even International season had started. As you sharpen your skills, attended a few your target tournaments, it's time to set your sights on the big...
A reflection on sustainable fencing development in an age of instant promises In today's fencing landscape, families face an overwhelming array of choices and competing promises. Social media feeds overflow with dramatic transformation stories, bold claims about...
Three years ago one girl came to our fencing summer camp, clutching her mother's hand, eyes wide with uncertainty. She had never held a sword before. Never worn a mask. Never stood on a strip. Her mother whispered to me, "She's so shy, I'm not sure if this was the...
I want to talk about hope. Not the vague "I hope I win this tournament" or "I hope my fencer gets better" kind of hope. No, I want to talk about real, substantial hope – the kind that sustains us through the darkest moments in fencing and beyond. You might be...
It happened again last weekend during the March NAC. One of our fencers — talented, hard-working, technically sound — froze on the strip during a crucial DE. Not because their opponent was doing anything particularly brilliant. Not because they didn't know what to do....
In the world of international fencing, a remarkable story has unfolded over the past two decades - one that challenges traditional narratives about gender and sport. While many Olympic sports see men's events receive greater attention and prestige, American fencing...
In one of the regional competitions, one of our girls told me - "I would feel embarrassed if I didn't succeed and lose the bouts. It will be especially big embarrassment if I lose to somebody weaker than me." These words stopped me in my tracks. Not because they were...
The art of building and maintaining a world-class fencing team extends far beyond technical training and tactical preparation. It requires careful orchestration of team dynamics, strategic development of young talent, and the ability to make tough decisions that...
What a breathtaking year for American fencing it was in 2024! The Paris Olympics became our field of dreams, where years of dedication crystallized into an extraordinary four-medal haul that left the fencing world in awe. And while the rest of the world stands amazed,...
Do you want to receive timely updates from our blog and learn more about fencing? Sign up here, and you'll receive an email with the latest blog post after it's published.