What You Need to know

Dear Competitive Fencers and Families,

Congratulations on deciding to take the exciting step of incorporating tournament play into
your fencing journey. The first step is to discuss your expectations and goals with your
coach to determine if you're ready to compete. Together, we'll assess your eligibility based
on age and class, and decide whether to participate in local club, regional, or national
tournaments.

To enter these competitions, you must register for an AskFRED account and obtain a USA
Fencing competitive membership. While both platforms are useful, it’s helpful to know the
difference: AskFRED covers a wide range of events, including local tournaments, camps,
and clinics, whereas the USA Fencing tournament browser focuses on nationally sanctioned events that affect your national ranking.

On the day of the tournament, plan to arrive at least an hour before your scheduled event.
This allows time for check-in, equipment check, warming up, stretching, and practicing a
few bouts. For your pool and DE assignments, remember to check fencingtimelive.com.

West Coast Fencing Academy coaches will be present at almost all local, regional, and
national tournaments when at least five of our fencers are participating. During fencing
strip coaching, coaches provide real-time guidance and tactical advice, helping athletes
adjust their strategies and techniques to effectively counter opponents during a match,
while also offering moral support and encouragement to boost confidence and focus.
Please email our coaches to inquire about strip coaching availability.

Below, you'll find the regional and national tournament calendar for USA Fencing
sectioned events, along with other useful links to help you prepare for your first tournament. Additionally, be sure to visit our equipment guide page well in advance of your tournament to ensure you have the right gear and can test it during practice. This preparation will help you perform your best when it counts!

We look forward to seeing you on the piste!

Best Regards,

West Coast Fencing Academy