Competition Resources
USA Fencing — Membership, Rules, National Calendar.
AskFRED — registration for most local & regional tournaments
BFC Competition Calendar — see what’s coming up for our club
Fencers will eventually need their own gear, especially if they’re competing. Club gear is great for beginners, but once competing regularly, having personal gear is safer, more comfortable, and required at higher-level events.
Recommended Vendors: 💡 Tip: Start with a starter set, then upgrade piece by piece.
Arrive early: Plan to arrive at least 1 hour before check-in closes.
Bring everything: Mask, glove, two working weapons, two body cords. (Most events check equipment.)
Check in: Confirm your presence, then head to equipment control if required.
Warm up: Fencers usually warm up together or with a coach.
Pools: The first round where fencers are grouped and fence each other.
Direct Elimination: Knockout bracket after pools.
Salute your opponent, referee, and audience before and after each bout.
Shake hands (blade-to-blade is now preferred over handshakes in some competitions).
Respect referees and officials at all times — even when calls don’t go your way.
Parents should cheer positively but not coach from the sidelines.
Pack food and water — venues often don’t have great options.
Dress in layers — gyms can be cold or hot.
Bring cash — some tournaments charge small entry or parking fees.
Expect downtime — bring a book, laptop, or charger while waiting between bouts.
Remember: the goal at first competitions is learning, not winning.