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How I Believe the Changes to the Strip Coaching Rule Changes (t.109) Should be Interpreted

In the April 16, 2023 USA Fencing Board of Directors Special Meeting, the Board voted to approve changes to strip coaching rules (t.109) to align to FIE standards. These changes were voted on in order to promote more order on the piste and minimize distractions for fencers and referees over the course of a bout.  A number of … Continue reading How I Believe the Changes to the Strip Coaching Rule Changes (t.109) Should be Interpreted

Things Iโ€™m Going to do Before my Term Begins in Septemberโ€ฆAnd Answering Some Questions from the Community

To the members of the American Fencing communityโ€” Nearly 24 hours after learning Iโ€™d have the privilege to serve you, Iโ€™m still giddy with excitement! In my ongoing commitment to transparency, I wanted to write a quick post on my priorities in the next few months and what happens now. My Message to the Community … Continue reading Things Iโ€™m Going to do Before my Term Begins in Septemberโ€ฆAnd Answering Some Questions from the Community

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: โ€œwhat the hell was I doing?โ€ A Cliff Noteโ€™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 15/14โ€™s โ€“ 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 15/14โ€™s โ€“ The New Gold Standard of Fencing Shoes

Assessing the Bylaw Omnibus Package โ€“ How Iโ€™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 whatโ€™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 โ€“ How Iโ€™d Vote and What You Need to Know

Damien Lehfeldt for USA Fencing At Large Director

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. Iโ€™m jumping into this election for one simple reason: I love this sport with all of my heart, you love this sport too, and you deserve … 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)