WFencing Year in Review 2024
Say goodbye to 2024 and hello to 2025! Where were we, and where are we headed?
WFencing had a phenomenal developmental 2024! We have so much gratitude as we continue to advance the sport of fencing and give thanks to our members, colleagues, allies, collaborators and officers. Below is a quick recap of some highlights - and a sneak preview into what we hope to continue to build upon for 2025.
Athena, Athena and Athena.
We developed a model for coach education and supporting future leaders in fencing.
“This camp taught me so much but the three most impactful things were 1. Yelling helps you a lot, 2. Never underestimate yourself, have a plan and be confident in it, 3. Bringing people together is one of the best things you can do for a team.” - Camper
“I feel much more supported in my fencing and I know that there are so many women that are willing to help and support me.” - Camper
“Athena Camp has not only elevated my technical skills as a coach but also empowered me personally as a female coach. I felt the support like never before, and I know I can count on these women from here on.” - Coach
Collaboration is key! Thank you Northwest Fencing Center for seeing and believing in the vision of a camp and leadership development camp for coaches and athletes.
What’s next for the Athena effort in 2025? Our next large Athena Project Camp is in the planning stages for 2026. For now, look for clinics and weekend events hosted by WFencing members globally. We ask that you help us by continuing sharing. We are not here to dictate! Perspectives help to broaden empathy, understanding and tolerance so we can all work together for a better fencing community.
Ally-ship. What did this look like in 2024? Education and awareness. Listening and empathy. Amplification and advocacy. Action and accountability. From hair care to hard hits and chest protectors, supporting awareness of issues which impact our growth has been the focus of our Allies Committee. Enjoy our most-read post of 2024: A Hard Hitting Post About Hard Hits.
What’s next for Allies in 2025?
We can’t let the NCAA Settlement impact our teams like the implementation of Title IX. With new requirements always come the positive - and challenges.
Positives: We expect a National Championship for women to be sanctioned by the NCAA in 2025, and fencing had the first female coach to win an NCAA Championship title.
Uncertainty: Although this will be exciting and is long overdue, issues of fairness and equity for both women’s and men’s fencing teams (as compared to other sports) in this competitive arena will be on the forefront.
Transgender inclusion: This is the most divisive topic many of us have ever seen working in sport, ever. WFencing is here to support dialog and help find a path forward for all in our fencing community.
First WFencing-sponsored Regional tournament
In November, WFencing with Cleveland State University hosted the 2024 WFencing Cleveland Rocks RYC/RJCC. You can see the results here. This regional USA Fencing tournament was lauded for being a well-run event representing WFencing's values, and a good time was had by all. We look forward to sponsoring future events!
Social Presence at National Events, Happy Hours, Conferences and Talks.
We continue to help our members of our greater fencing community connect as we share our vision and collaborate with others. If you are in Kansas City at the January NAC, make sure to mark your calendar for our upcoming social on Friday, January 4, 2025. We'll be at Banksia Bistro Downtown in Kansas City on Friday, January 3rd at 7:30pm for the WFencing Social with White Elephant Gift Exchange -- we'd love to see you in person!
What’s next in 2025? YOU are part of the future of WFencing.
Help be a part of how WFencing plans to grow and evolve in 2025. We all gain more support and more influence with more involvement both on a committee level or financial support.
Thanks to you, your words of month and generous giving, WFencing has gained a wealth of knowledge, experience and energy from our new and returning members.
We are an active 501(c)3 and are a working board. Your donations and membership matters to our growth. You have a voice here. Please consider us in your end of year donations and join today!
WFencing wishes all of you a Happy New Year, and looks forward to seeing many of you at the 2025 January NAC in Kansas City!
