USA Fencing announced on Monday that its membership has climbed to an all‑time high of 45,157, supported by a record 752 affiliated clubs across the United States. The governing body, which oversees the sport of fencing nationally, says the growth comes as it prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Targeting 70,000 members before the home Games
CEO Phil Andrews, who has led the organization since 2022, said the federation is now aiming for 70,000 members ahead of the 2028 Olympics. “We’re actually making efforts to go out and market the sport, which hadn’t really happened before,” Andrews told Reuters.
Media partnership expands reach
In 2025 USA Fencing entered a multi‑million‑dollar promotional partnership with iHeartMedia. The deal leverages iHeart’s radio stations, podcasts, digital platforms and social media to introduce fencing to a broader audience. Andrews noted that exposure alone does not drive participation; the federation is focused on giving people the chance to try the sport.
Free introductory programs bring fencing to communities
The organization’s “Fencing Across America” initiative offers free introductory events in cities nationwide. Participants of all ages can try foil, épée, sabre and para‑fencing with loaned equipment and coaching, and receive a trial membership. “Eyeballs alone don’t move the needle as much as getting people to realise they can try it,” Andrews said.
In addition, USA Fencing launched “En Garde! Fencing,” a school‑based program that brings introductory lessons to elementary schools and after‑school programs, then connects interested students with local clubs.
Addressing affordability barriers
Fencing has long been viewed as an expensive sport. To combat that perception, USA Fencing operates the “Fencing the Gap” grant program, providing clubs with funds to reduce entry costs. In 2026, five clubs received $5,000 grants each, with the expectation of reaching 30 to 50 young people per club.
Andrews emphasized the need for philanthropy: “Fencing is an expensive sport. We have to own that to solve it. It means leaning into philanthropy to open doors and fund people who otherwise couldn’t afford it.”
Support from established foundations
The Peter Westbrook Foundation in New York, which has produced Olympic medalists such as double medallist Lauren Scruggs, continues to help young athletes access the sport despite high costs. Andrews praised Scruggs’s success and called for more opportunities like hers.
Looking beyond LA28
While the Los Angeles Games are seen as a catalyst, Andrews said the real test will come after the home Olympics. “I think the real measure of success comes at Brisbane 2032,” he said. “There’s usually an afterglow from a home Games for a year or two regardless. The real test is: what does the sport look like four years after LA?”
USA Fencing also highlighted the World Fencing League, launched in April with investors that include seven‑time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton. The league aims to present fencing in a more entertainment‑focused format, hoping to attract new fans.
Financial outlook
The federation projects $2.8 million in marketing and communications revenue for the upcoming season, reflecting its expanded commercial push.
With record membership, new media partnerships, school‑based programs and grant funding, USA Fencing hopes to broaden the sport’s appeal beyond its traditional affluent base and secure a lasting legacy from the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
