Hello everyone, Last night, I had the pleasure of taking part in the first USA Fencing candidate debate. That video should be published shortly. We only had an hour and six of us on stage, and a lot of great questions got asked that we didn’t have time to get to. At the end of … Continue reading Responding to Remaining Questions from the USA Fencing Candidate Debate (#1)
Author: YourMemeSucks
On the Need for a More Democratically Minded Board
I think the members of USA Fencing are pretty damn smart. Fencers are thinkers, fencers are pragmatic, and even Sabre fencers can be left to their own devices to make good decisions. One of the many reasons I’m running for Board is because I have faith in the will of membership, and as a community-oriented … Continue reading On the Need for a More Democratically Minded Board
I Am Not a Master: an Assessment of the USFCA Certification Process and a Hope for the Future of the Organization
When I was a freshman in college, I decided to pledge a fraternity. When I look back on my pledge process 18 years later, I think to myself: “what the hell was I doing?” A Cliff Note’s summary of my ZBT Brandeis experience included: A hell week in which my pledge class was covered head … Continue reading I Am Not a Master: an Assessment of the USFCA Certification Process and a Hope for the Future of the Organization
Product Review: Azza 15/14’s – The New Gold Standard of Fencing Shoes
Disclaimer: A discount code was provided to the author by Azza Fencing in return for my honest review. The shoes, which retail at $167 (plus shipping) were discounted to $66.82. I received no monetary compensation for this review, nor am I endorsed by Azza Fencing in any capacity. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are … Continue reading Product Review: Azza 15/14’s – The New Gold Standard of Fencing Shoes
Assessing the Bylaw Omnibus Package – How I’d Vote and What You Need to Know
In the upcoming February 16 Board of Directors meeting, the Board will consider a number of sweeping changes to the bylaws. As a member, you need to be aware of what’s coming and why these changes are important. One of the promises I made to you as a prospective Board member was to transparently share … Continue reading Assessing the Bylaw Omnibus Package – How I’d Vote and What You Need to Know
Damien Lehfeldt for USA Fencing At Large Director
I’m Running! Dear friends and members of the Fencing Community, I am pleased to announce that I am running for one of the three At-Large Director positions opening later this year. I’m jumping into this election for one simple reason: I love this sport with all of my heart, you love this sport too, and … Continue reading Damien Lehfeldt for USA Fencing At Large Director
Trends in Senior International Epee Fencing (2021-2022)
Note: This article was originally published in the United States Fencing Coaches Association Sword Master magazine, December 2022 issue. To join the USFCA and get access to Sword Master and other publications, visit the USFCA website. Introduction Nearly one year ago, I had the honor of joining the Team USA Epee National Coaching Staff as … Continue reading Trends in Senior International Epee Fencing (2021-2022)
What to Know About the Upcoming 2023 Unwillingness to Fight Rule Changes (aka the “Three Strikes You’re Out” Rule)
The Mad Lads in the FIE Congress have done it again, and the P-Card rules are changing on January 1, 2023. What you need to know you can find it here.
Product Review: Lancet Fencing Ambidextrous Peregrine Grip
Disclaimer: This grip was purchased by the author and not provided by Lancet Fencing. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by Lancet Fencing and/or its affiliates in any way. Giving an ambidextrous lesson can be a clunky affair when you’re carrying one weapon in each hand. One weapon’s pointed … Continue reading Product Review: Lancet Fencing Ambidextrous Peregrine Grip
Simple Rules of Fencing Safety (Version 2)
Note: I'm all about feedback. Got some great input on this from the good folks of the r/Fencing subreddit and wanted to update the post to reflect their comments. A couple of years ago, a northeast region fencing coach was giving a lesson to a maskless student. One thing led to another, and the student … Continue reading Simple Rules of Fencing Safety (Version 2)